Ya Mustafa (2023)

Ya Mustafa

Hello everyone, I'm thrilled to share with you my latest video project featuring one of the most iconic songs of the 1960s: "Ya Mustafa". This classic Franco-Arabic tune has been on my mind for a while now, and I couldn't resist the urge to produce a video that captures its timeless beauty and cultural significance.

As you may know, "Ya Mustafa" was a groundbreaking hit in its time, sung by the renowned Egyptian artist, Bob Azzam. The song's popularity spread rapidly throughout the Arab world and beyond, with millions of copies sold and translated into various languages. It has remained a classic of Franco-Arabic music ever since.

However, what many people don't know is that "Ya Mustafa" was banned upon its release in 1960 by Egypt's cinema censorship authority, which was then headed by the celebrated novelist Naguib Mahfouz. The reason for the ban was that the song was deemed politically subversive due to its reference to the seven years that had passed since the overthrow of the Egyptian monarchy and the establishment of the republic. The name "Mustafa" was also interpreted as a veiled allusion to the former Egyptian prime minister and nationalist leader, Mustafa El Nahas Pasha.

Despite the ban, "Ya Mustafa" continued to resonate with people, becoming a symbol of cultural resistance and a celebration of the spirit of Arab identity. It has been reinterpreted and covered by countless artists over the years, making it a true cultural phenomenon.

In my video, I wanted to pay tribute to the song's rich cultural history and its message of resistance and identity. The visuals are inspired by the energy and joy that this classic tune brings to people's lives. You'll see groups of beautiful and talented dancers moving and grooving to the infectious beat of the song, capturing the spirit of celebration and joy that it embodies. From young girls to elders and families, my video showcases the universal appeal of this beloved classic.

For me, "Ya Mustafa" represents the power of music to transcend borders and bring people together. It's a song that speaks to the heart and soul of the Arab world, while also resonating with people of all cultures and backgrounds. I hope that my video captures some of that spirit and inspires you to discover or rediscover this beloved classic.

Thank you for watching and sharing this journey with me. Let's keep celebrating the power of music to unite us all!

Best regards,
Chaouki