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Mohammed Assaf: why I left music to honor Gaza’s struggle
Mohammed Assaf, the renowned Palestinian singer who captured hearts after winning the second season of Arab Idol in 2013, has shared his reasons for stepping away from music. Assaf revealed that his decision stems from a deep sense of solidarity with the people of Gaza, where children face unimaginable hardships amidst the ongoing conflict. His journey from celebrated artist to advocate for his people’s dignity reflects a profound personal and cultural transformation.
Assaf admitted to grappling with an emotional conflict in recent years, questioning the appropriateness of performing romantic songs while his homeland endures suffering. This internal struggle led him to reassess the role of music in times of collective crisis. He explained that art, especially Palestinian music, has always been deeply rooted in resistance and identity, serving as a medium for storytelling and preserving dignity.
“Art is more than entertainment. It’s a message, a form of resistance no less significant than any other,” Assaf stated. He emphasized how music has historically played a role in shaping narratives of resilience. For Assaf, his departure from performing is not an abandonment of art but a redefinition of its purpose: to amplify the stories and struggles of Palestine.
His decision has sparked meaningful conversations among cultural leaders and advocates in Palestine and across the Arab world. Many see Assaf’s choice as a call for artists to reflect on how their work can serve their communities during times of grief and upheaval. By stepping away from music, Assaf reminds the world of the enduring power of art as a tool for resistance, resilience, and the preservation of identity.
