After a break of about 12 years, the program “Our Generation” returns in a new form, maintaining its essence that brought together all generations, with the journalist Amjad Touma.
The guest of the episode is the singer Samih Shaqir, a Syrian singer with a long history in resistance songs and artistic expression of political and social issues. His performance and singing stances are often linked to values and freedom, and he is known for supporting causes that affect the fate of the Syrian people, especially amid crises.
The discussion addressed important topics including:
The relationship between the audience and the revolution
The conversation reveals how the audience warmly responded to Samih’s songs about the revolution and resistance, such as the song “Ya Hayf.”
But it also talks about the challenge the artist faces when singing about painful events like what happened in the coast or in Sweida: Is the response the same? Is there a difference in interaction?
Artistic and political commitment
Samih Shaqir affirms that art cannot be separated from values: freedom, justice, human dignity.
He touches on how he chose to keep his voice supporting the people’s causes, even when it is costly or unpopular.
Challenges facing the artist
Pressures coming from differing tastes, fear of reactions, or intellectual division among Syrians.
The biggest challenge is how the artist maintains credibility when dealing with a diverse audience with varied stances and experiences.
Hope for a better future
Despite the pain and the long absence, there is a new spirit and enthusiasm from the audience, and a desire for renewed dialogue reflecting the experiences of Syrians.
“Our Generation Again” is a platform that offers the opportunity not only to revisit the old experience but to create a new experience characterized by inclusivity and genuine interaction.
The first episode of “Our Generation Again” offers a rare opportunity to reflect on the role of the artist as a representative of values and society, not just as a musical performer. Samih Shaqir places human commitment at the core of what he does and raises important questions about the audience, expectations, and pressures in an artistic work that wants to be a voice unafraid of change.
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