Sharjah's House of Wisdom hosts Sons of Yusuf’s new music video launch
Hip-hop duo bridges Arabic culture and global influences through music
Sharjah’s iconic House of Wisdom set the stage for a unique cultural event last night, hosting the launch of the music video House of Wisdom by Kuwaiti hip-hop duo Sons of Yusuf.
The event saw the presence of Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairperson of the Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq), along with dignitaries, cultural leaders, and media professionals.
The duo’s live performance added a dynamic touch, blending music with Sharjah’s cultural essence.
The collaboration between Shurooq and Sons of Yusuf underscores the emirate’s dedication to cultural preservation and innovation. Sheikha Bodour remarked, “This project symbolises the harmony of our rich heritage and contemporary creativity.”
Showcasing Sharjah’s landmarks
The House of Wisdom, with its avant-garde design, served as the ideal symbol for this project, bridging past and present. Shurooq’s representative noted, “Sharjah continues to inspire as a beacon of cultural innovation.
The music video not only highlights the House of Wisdom – a futuristic reimagining of libraries – but also features other notable Shurooq destinations, including The Chedi Al Bait, Sharjah, Heart of Sharjah, Al Noor Island, and Mleiha National Park. These locations collectively narrate Sharjah’s journey as a hub for knowledge and creativity.
Sons of Yusuf
Brothers Ya’koob and Abdul Rahman Al Refaie, the duo behind Sons of Yusuf, have captivated audiences since 2011 by blending Arabic cultural narratives with Western hip-hop influences.
Their previous successes, such as One Time and their remix of Wiz Khalifa’s We Dem Boyz, have garnered international acclaim.
Their debut album Shaykh the World features collaborations with renowned artists, delving into historical themes and celebrating the Islamic Golden Age. The duo’s efforts aim to challenge stereotypes, inspire Arab youth, and promote pride in regional heritage.
House of Wisdom
The track House of Wisdom was produced by Essa Hashemi, also known as Synthzeus, while the music video was directed by Both., a Sharjah-based creative entity. Adding a theatrical touch, the video opens with a narration by Faisal Al-Ameeri, celebrated for his work in acclaimed Arab cinema.
Through their art, Sons of Yusuf not only highlight Sharjah’s cultural treasures but also inspire a broader audience to explore the emirate’s legacy. “This is more than music; it’s a call to embrace heritage,” said Abdul Rahman.
The project aligns seamlessly with Shurooq’s mission to elevate Sharjah’s profile as a cultural and tourism destination. By weaving local tradition with global artistic trends, the video resonates with youth and solidifies Sharjah’s reputation as a cultural beacon.
In capturing Sharjah’s essence, House of Wisdom transcends its medium, inviting audiences to reflect on the fusion of tradition and modernity. As Sons of Yusuf aptly put it, “Sharjah tells a story that the world needs to hear.”