According to Soudodi, right after Mubarak stepped down, people were scurrying left, right to various political meetings to see how they could lend a hand. Eventually, most realized that they had to go back and re-educate themselves on the political systems and structures of Egypt and other countries and gain an understanding of the constitution.
“We felt there needed to be a sort of voice or channel where this type of education and awareness could happen. We initially thought of a website, but realized we needed something more immediate, which is when the idea for Radio Ta7rir was born,” explained Soudodi.
With 15 volunteers on board, ranging from young entrepreneurs, artists, activists and free thinkers, Radio Ta7rir broadcasts Arabic programs and non-commercial music. Since Jan. 25, some interesting music has emerged.
Tamara Yousry quit her job as a teacher to join Radio Ta7rir. Involved in music outreach and program coordination, Yousry looks for talented and creative musicians, including underground bands unknown to the public at large. Her favorite artists include Deeb, the hip-hop artist; Ramy Essam (Unplugged Grunge) who is known as the singer of the Egyptian revolution and Sabry, an Egyptian soldier who is a true artist, songwriter and singer who was discovered by the Egyptian band, Digla. They have worked together to record “Tamam Ya Fandim.” Other artists who produced hit singles include Offendum, the Syrian-American hip-hop artist, The Narcicyst, Eskenderella, an Egyptian band, and the Egyptian singer, Mado.
According to Egyptian composer and producer, Hassan El Shafie, the music industry echoes the country’s political changes. There is more room now for other kinds of music, but he believes that amongst the new artists that have emerged from Tahrir Square, only the most talented will survive.
The shows are a platform to encourage free speech since the founders want people to speak their mind undeterred. Monaqsha Siyaseya (A Political Debate) is an open forum focusing on Egypt’s present political activity and its future. 7anifty Shwaya (Let’s Talk a Bit) features also an open discussion on current events and controversial issues such as citizenship, unemployment, social welfare, social inequality and many more. Thawra Online (Revolution Online) presents the most interesting and controversial YouTube and Facebook links on the Internet, and finally, Kalam Kbeer (Big Words) is hosted by two children, an eight-year-old and a 10-year-old, who voice their views about current events. All these programs are broadcast in Arabic, but there are plans to air in English to reach Egyptians abroad.
Radio Ta7rir was founded by a group of dedicated young people to help Egyptians use their freedom of speech. It is a platform that encourages interactive exchanges with as many people as possible.
“Broadcasting the voice of Tahrir with every word, with every beat, with every chord and with every minute is our mission,” says Yousry.
Website: www.radio7rir.com
Email: [email protected]
Facebook: radio7rir.com
Tweet: @Radiota7rir
