Mariem Hassan doesn't just sing; she encapsulates the soul of her displaced people and shares their stories through haunting melodies and evocative lyrics. In her 2005 album "Deseos," Mariem Hassan not only pays tribute to her Sahrawi roots but also exposes to the world the cultural and political struggles of Western Sahara. A powerful voice rising from the sands, Hassan's work in this album is as much a voice of resistance as it is of art. Her songs weave through themes of nostalgia, pain, hope, and the yearning for freedom - soundscapes painted by gravely resonant vocals and the rhythmic pulses of the traditional tidinit and electric guitar.
Released by Nubenegra in 2005, "Deseos" is not just an album, but an exploration of identity and resilience. It bridges the gap between generations, reflecting the struggles of those caught in a geopolitically unresolved conflict while also preserving the cultural identity they are so fiercely trying to protect. Mariem Hassan was born in 1958 in Smara in what is today Western Sahara but spent much of her life in exile in refugee camps in Algeria. Her music is heavily influenced by the events and environment she's lived through, acting as a vessel that channels the stories of her land and its people.
"Deseos" is a poignant testament to the power of music as a form of cultural expression and activism. Each track serves as a narrative, resonating with themes of displacement and unity, reminiscent of the musical resistance against apartheid and calls for civil rights. The collection of songs puts listeners in touch with the Sahrawi's rich musical traditions and their present-day realities. It blends the roots of the Haul music tradition with more contemporary influences, creating a sense of synchronicity that binds the ancient with the modern-day challenges faced by the Sahrawi people.
Listening to "Deseos" transforms the experience from passive enjoyment to an awakening of empathy and awareness about the Sahrawi cause. Tracks like "La Intifada" remind listeners of the ongoing struggle for independence that the Sahrawis pursue while evoking a sense of longing and perseverance. It juxtaposes the harsh desert life with universal themes of freedom and autonomy, empowering listeners from all walks of life to reflect on their definitions of these concepts.
Politically, the album emerges as a subtle, yet compelling call for international awareness and solidarity with the struggles of the Western Sahara. For those who live in politically stable parts of the world, grappling with issues of displacement and cultural erasure may seem distant. But Hassan manages to foster a connection through her artistry, winning allies for her cause through sheer emotional resonance.
Even for listeners who may traditionally lean on political spectrums opposing Hassan's views, "Deseos" offers a learning experience. It’s an opportunity to approach art as an apolitical medium that encourages subjective understanding. While some may see political undertones as controversially dissident, others might discover a reflection of fundamental human rights and freedoms that resonate beyond borders and biases.
Gen Z, with its inclination toward social causes and global outreach, can see in "Deseos" a canvas that illustrates the complexities of identity, politics, and freedom. The youth of today, marked by an impressive grasp of global issues through social media and grassroots activism, find in Mariem's album not just songs but conversations. Conversations about past wrongs, ongoing struggles, and shared destinies that forge human connections transcending the political divides.
To embrace "Deseos" is to accept Mariem Hassan’s invitation to witness and feel the rhythms of her people. It’s a call to not only listen to the music but to hear the voices, recognize the struggles, and join in the hope for eventual realization of dreams — the very essence of what 'deseos' is all about.
This album remains a testament to Hassan’s enduring spirit and her people’s relentless pursuit of justice. "Deseos" defies boundaries, unifying diverse audiences through its sincere portrayal of an often-ignored but historically significant story. It challenges us to reflect on how music and activism can thread together, crafting bridges over cultural and political chasms. It is a legacy that insists on being heard, championed by a voice that echoes far beyond the shifting dunes of the desert.