Somali music has lost one of its legendary singers, Amina Abdullahi Hirso, who passed away today in Borama. Amina was a renowned singer, actress, and performer who had contributed to the Somali art scene for nearly thirty years.
Amina was born between the northern cities of Wajale and Borama, and she was raised in Djibouti, where she grew up amidst a thriving Somali art scene. She started her art career in the year 1966 and was directly involved in the art scene for two decades. During this time, Amina participated in many concerts and songs, both alone and with other famous Somali artists.
At the beginning of her art career, Amina moved to the city of Hargeisa, where she joined the choir of Radio Hargeisa before becoming a part of the famous band, Waberi. Over the years, Amina sang many memorable songs, including “Sharacalee,” “Gari Makaa Baxdaa,” and “Siyar.” However, one of her most popular songs was “Aashaqu has no priest/never in this world,” sung by Awan Hassan, with its memorable melody.
Besides singing, Amina also acted in many plays and programs that were popular among Somalis at that time. One of her most notable performances was in the play “Dab Jacayl Kari Waa,” written by the poet Hassan-Ganey in 1973, and presented the following year in 1974 in the city of Hargeisa.
Amina’s contribution to Somali music and art was significant, and her memory will live on through her music and performances. Her passing is a great loss to the Somali music community and her fans worldwide.
May Allah have mercy on singer Amina Abdullahi Hirso’s soul and provide comfort to her family, friends, and fans during this difficult time.
