Golden Age of Love: How Umm Kulthum Shaped Our Hearts
The Golden Age of Love: How Umm Kulthum Shaped Our Hearts
I still remember the car rides back from Jwayya or Bezzoreyeh, winding through the hills of South Lebanon as my father flipped through local radio stations. He wasn’t searching for anything; he was just letting the airwaves guide him.
More often than not, we landed on Abdel Wahab or Umm Kulthum. And then, something unexpected would happen: my father, a man of few words, would start to mumble along, what we call tamtama. He would softly humming, lost in a melody only he and his memories understood.
As a child, I wanted those moments to end. The intros felt eternal, stretching on and on as if we’d never reach the lyrics. But my heart felt otherwise. I was witnessing something rare: a glimpse into my father’s poetic, romantic, and joyful side, a side I never saw in the day-to-day motions of life.
And for that, I am deeply grateful to the music that defined that golden era and to the grand artists who gave voice to emotions many of our parents never put into words.
A Legacy of Love: The Influence of Umm Kulthum
Umm Kulthum, often called the "Star of the East," was more than just a singer; she was a cultural icon whose music shaped the emotional landscape of the Arab world. Born in 1898 in Egypt, she captivated audiences with her powerful voice, impeccable diction, and deep emotional delivery. Her performances, often lasting hours, were more than concerts; they were experiences of shared emotion, where audiences hung onto every note and lyric.
Her songs, many composed by legendary musicians like Mohamed Abdel Wahab and Baligh Hamdi, explored themes of longing, devotion, and resilience in love. Classics like Enta Omree and El Hob Kullu became anthems of romance, played at weddings and whispered in quiet moments between lovers. Her ability to express the complexities of love made her music timeless, resonating with generations, including ours.
Maraseel: Preserving the Poetry of Love
At Maraseel, we believe love stories are meant to be felt, remembered, and cherished. Just as Umm Kulthum’s music transcended time, our cards aim to capture emotions that words alone cannot express. This year, we honor her influence with two special cards: Enta Omree and El Hob Kullu.
Enta Omree: The Song That Defined Love
When Umm Kulthum sang Enta Omree, she redefined love as a transformative force. The song, written by Ahmed Shafiq Kamel and composed by Mohamed Abdel Wahab, marked a historic collaboration and remains one of her most beloved pieces. It speaks of gratitude, devotion, and the realization that love is a profound journey. Our Enta Omree card is a tribute to that deep, life-changing love; the kind that makes you see the world differently.
El Hob Kullu: A Celebration of Passion
El Hob Kullu is a celebration of uncontainable joy and overwhelming passion. Written by Ahmed Rami and composed by Baligh Hamdi, the song conveys the intoxicating euphoria of love, making it a favorite at weddings and romantic occasions. Our El Hob Kullu card channels that boundless energy, perfect for those who love fiercely and without limits.
A Love That Lives On
Umm Kulthum’s music was never just about the words: it was about the feelings those words evoked. Today, we may not sit around a radio waiting for her Friday night performances, but her melodies remain stitched into our hearts.
With Maraseel’s Arabic love cards, you’re not just giving a card; you’re gifting a piece of nostalgia, a melody, a love story that lives beyond words. Whether for a partner, a parent, or a friend who understands the power of these songs, these cards honor the beauty of love as it was felt in the golden age, and as it is felt today.
Shop the Collection
Celebrate The Golden Age of Love with Maraseel’s Umm Kulthum-inspired cards. Find the perfect message for the one who holds your heart, just like these timeless songs did for generations before us.
