Somali music legend Ahmed Ali Egal, who was one of the main pillars of Somali music and theater for more than 50 years, passed away in the United States today, July 31, according to his family.
According to his family, Ahmed Ali Egal spent the last week in a hospital in Minneapolis, Minnesota, where his health was being treated before his death.
Ahmed Ali Egal entered the music industry in 1967, becoming a singer, actor, musician and composer who was famous throughout the Somali region. He played a major role in the development of modern music, as a member of the famous Waaberi choir, and left a rich artistic legacy to the Somali community. History also notes that he played a key role in the founding of the Somali Jazz band, which pioneered the presentation of Somali songs in a modern style, and contributed to the modernization of Somali theater performances.
His death was widely felt by the Somali art community and the Somali public as a whole, with many artists, creators and fans expressing their condolences on social media and remembering his role in the development of Somali art.
Ahmed Ali Egal left behind an artistic legacy that will endure, as his songs and plays remain an important part of Somali history and heritage.
May Allah have mercy on Ahmed Ali Egal, grant patience and faith to his family, the art community and the Somali public in general.