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| Poster for an IFB play in 1985 |
First things first: Condolences to all Somalis, and specially to the families and friends of Khadiija Cabdullaahi “Dalays” and Shamis Abokor "Guduudo Carwo" who passed away yesterday and last month respectively. Both (grand)mamas are highly regarded as prominent pioneers of modern Somali music and they actively participated in the anti-colonial movements in the 1950s. Highest esteem forever!
Isbahaysiga Fannaaniinta Banaadir ("Alliance of Banaadir Artists") was a syncretist theatre troupe for and by the youth, mixing traditional dance and music with modern influences. It's composed of dozens of artists who turned professional in their teen years. They originally came from all parts of the country but were based in Banaadir, i.e. Mogadishu and its neigbourhood. Most of them were also simultaneously multitasking with LMB or other bands.
IFB's plays portrayed straight up a wide spectrum of the youth life in the 70s and 80s. Their main focus was directed towards the day-to-day life as well as cultural and socio-economic issues facing the younger generations, such as coming of age, joys and woes of love, carefree relaxation, adventurous fun, (cultural) education, social volunteering, (un)empolyment, entrepreneurship etc.
Their fascinating artistic career was, alas, cut short by the civil war. Most of the members are now world citizens residing in the four quarters of the globe. Quite a few have unfortunately passed away and this YT playlist (I couldn't embed it or find IFB videos!) shows several of them with their other bands: Ciise Daahir Qaasim (keyboardist on video 1 & 8, see footage below), Shiikh Cabdi (guitarist on 2, 3 & 5), Xaawo Hiiraan (singer on 4), Cantar Naaji and Siciid Cabdalla (respectively drummer and guitarist on 6). A.U.N./R.I.P.
Prolific composer and (re)arranger Ciise Daahir Qaasim (founder of Bakaaka in the 1970s and Durdur in/around 1980) on keyboard
All the tracks below and a few more are downloadable here; they're probably bootlegs recorded live by the spectators. Enjoy!
Happy, healthy and peaceful new year to all!
1. Hooyo ("Mama [A moving and heart-warming tribute to all mothers]")
2. Qiimeen Adaa Mudane ("You Deserve to Be Cherished")
3. Jamaal Badanaa ("Stunning Beauty")
4. Hambalyo ("Congratulations")
5. Ila Joog Iga Joog ("Stay With Me, Stay Away From Me")
6. Sacabka Iga Hooyee ("Accept My Handshake")
7. Sida Kaymaha Roobka ("Like Rain Forests")
8. Hurdo Diid ("Sleepless")
9. Ii Soo Jawaab ("Respond to Me")
10. Waxbarashadaydaan Wataayee ("I'm Persuing My Education")
11. Nal Ka Nuur Badaneey ("You're Brighter Than the Light")
