Celebrating the Life and Legacy of Abdelwahab Doukkali
In a heartfelt tribute to the extraordinary artist Abdelwahab Doukkali, we bid farewell to a creative genius whose artistic capital remains unmatched in the annals of Moroccan music history. His departure came as a shock, leaving behind a vibrant legacy rooted in his deep appreciation for the beauty of life. Doukkali was not just a musician; he was a monumental figure in both Moroccan and Arab musical culture, creating a legacy that resonates with anyone who possesses an artistic sensibility. Renowned composer Mohamed Abdelwahab once described him as a quintessential artist who mastered the art of effortless complexity, advising numerous artists to take him as a model for crafting musical phrases that unlock the hearts of lovers. Through his songs, Doukkali beautifully encapsulated the simplicity of earthly existence, painting vivid portraits of great figures who significantly influenced human history. He often echoed the poignant sentiment, 'Everything fades with time, everything becomes a mere memory… only the face of God remains.'
The Artistic Journey and Contributions of Doukkali
Abdelwahab Doukkali's artistic contributions were marked by professionalism, commitment, and relentless hard work. He believed in the power of labor as a fundamental principle for every artist's life. His ability to seamlessly transition between composing music and employing colors on his exquisite canvases was nothing short of extraordinary. His artworks, which he showcased in Rabat at the Bab Rwah gallery in October 2018, captivated visitors who were astonished by the high caliber of his paintings depicting scholars, artists, and historical figures. Doukkali's attachment to these artworks was profound; he had no desire to sell them, despite the tempting prices, and they reside in the 'small museum' he established at his son's request. This museum stands as a unique tribute to an artist in Morocco, freely accessible to visitors. It is vital that the Ministry of Culture and the Museums Foundation step in to preserve the beautiful legacy left by this cultured artist, who was deeply committed to humanitarian issues.
Throughout his career, Doukkali celebrated the homeland that he cherished, reflecting its diverse colors, cultures, and rhythms in his music. His songs encapsulated the journey of Moroccans as they traversed their homeland, encouraging them to discover its treasures. He played a significant role in promoting domestic tourism, with memorable lines like 'Our country stretches long and wide,' transforming art into a compelling advertisement for traditional craftsmanship. His admiration for Moroccan carpets and tourist destinations was evident in his music, declaring that 'those who visit must return.' Doukkali possessed a unique talent that harmonized all the melodies and rhythms of Morocco. It was an honor for me when he accepted my invitation to appear twice on the program 'Décryptage,' which I had the privilege to oversee. During the show, I presented him through the lens of his musical creativity, asking, 'Who are you?' to which he humbly responded, 'I am but a human… and where do you dwell?… in that house over there…' and continued to narrate many of his songs.
Our discussions during the program, aired on FM Radio, were not solely focused on artistic contributions; Doukkali also expressed his views and commitment to national issues. I vividly recall his insightful remarks questioning the necessity of the numerous political parties in the country. He shared his perspectives on racism, the colonial implications of Spanish occupation concerning territorial unity, and the significance of dams for the economy, alongside his critique of human exploitation, vividly portrayed in his song 'Sooq Al-Bashariyyah.' Fate intervened when he confided in me after one of our shows about a grand project he was preparing, intending to present the melodies of revered Sufi poets through the rich and diverse voice of the late artist Abdu Sharif. Unfortunately, destiny had other plans, and this creative endeavor never reached the ears of beauty enthusiasts. Doukkali's music resonated with youth, the elderly, the homeland, and nature, and we continue to appreciate the spirit of his song that has captivated Moroccans since 1985. He sang of the sacrifices made for love, with the final words of a lyrical composition penned by the poet al-Batouli poignantly expressing, 'And the eyes of all lovers wept.' Despite the fast-paced nature of contemporary music that often leads to rapid forgetfulness, the fans of the late Abdelwahab Doukkali remain numerous, with many appreciating his soulful melodies that transcend time.
As reported by marrakechalyaoum.com.
