Newsfeed
Culture. Modern. Authenticity. Three words that seem to reign supreme in Zeyne’s latest powerful single, 7arrir 3aqlak (Asli Ana).
Known always for her dynamic blend of Middle Eastern rhythm with contemporary Western styles, this Arab singer returns in a light so trailblazing that her newest track is nothing short of transformative.
The narrative that pushed Zeyne this time around is all about the self—the authentic self. While it’s no surprise that the Palestinian-Jordanian pop singer merges intricate facets of identity into one lens, Zeyne, being the icon that embodies a striking voice, looked beyond the norm to weave in true Arab heritage in a world that seems so potent on being modern.
Asli Ana paints a thought-provoking question, one that poses a prime issue in today’s era. Opting to elevate rather than satiate the masses, Zeyne colours the song with a ringing theme: a call to reawaken. Asking the question, “Why have global norms been allowed to define the Arab identity?” The pop singer invites you to listen, reflect and retrospect on self-definition.
“This track is about rejecting what’s expected of us,” Zeyne explains. “It’s about owning who we are, without compromise.”
In the realms of culture, a topic that’s close to Zeyne’s heart, she produced Asli Ana in an enthralling charm that uniquely converges her passion for the Palestinian dance, Dabkeh, with the energy of R&B. A mixture not often seen in today’s cacophony music industry.
Directed and led by Arab filmmaker Farid Malki, partnered with Farah Hourani’s distinctive creative direction, Zeyne’s song envelops a new synthesis of tradition and innovation to visual storytelling. But, while it’s true that the visuals are one to note, it’s Zeyne’s projection of what Arab heritage is that takes precedence.
Serving a proud reminder of her Palestinian and Arab heritage, Asli Ana, for lack of a better word, is a rich evocative tune. With layers of sounds and lyrics that evidently bring forth a new essence to the region, there’s no denying the singer’s ever-evolving art form is quickly capturing the hearts of listeners worldwide.
Bridging fashion and culture
Despite the overarching theme of cultural identity, there’s a mixture that the song showcases—one that intricately combines traditional fashion in a modern sense.
Bringing the heart of tradition, Zeyne’s latest music video perfectly complements the likes of heritage but evolved with unrivalled modern fashion. Such was the direction of creative styling helmed by Saif Hidayah and Farah Hourani.
With cultural details epitomised by the help of technology, the music video showcased over five unapologetic looks where the pair specifically conceptualised the marriage of tradition and futurism. From metallic chainmail which laid the foundation to a chrome-finished corset, all the way to well-defined Palestinian embroidery etched by laser-cutting technology.
Taking pride in the concept, Fourani and Saif blended two spectrums that produced a distinctively traditional Arab design yet completely contemporary. From the fabrication techniques with laser technology, digitalised embroidery, engraving and 3D rendering, it’s no feat that Asli Ana truly marks the beginning of a regional reformation in music and design — proving that history and the age-old, can always evolve to the now.
