Musicians honor late composer Nazem Naeem’s legacy in Iraqi music

BAGHDAD — Musicians and cultural enthusiasts gathered at Baghdad’s Beit al-Mada cultural centre to celebrate the legacy of the late Christian Iraqi composer Nazem Naeem, who passed away four years ago. Known for his influence on Iraqi music, Naeem was one of the nation’s most revered violinists and the composer behind some of the most iconic songs performed by the legendary artist Nazem al-Ghazali, including “Om al-Oyoun al-Soud,” “Mihana,” “Tal’a Min Beit Abuha,” and “Maru Aalay al-Hilween.” His impact spanned Iraqi radio and television, leaving an indelible mark before his passing at 95 in Detroit, Michigan.

Rifat Abdul Razzaq, who led the event, reflected on Naeem’s influence, stating, “Nazem Naeem was among the great Iraqi composers who enriched the music scene after the era of the Kuwaiti brothers, Saleh and Daoud, who were foundational to Baghdad’s musical heritage.” He added, “When we remember him, we remember Nazem al-Ghazali—his life, his influence, and his artistry.” Naeem, a Christian Iraqi, was noted for breathing life into traditional Baghdadi tunes with elegance, composing for celebrated artists like Afifa Iskander, Ahlem Wahbi, Maida Nazhat, and Fouad Salem.

Iraqi artist Majdi Hussein also spoke about Naeem’s enduring influence, highlighting his pioneering contributions that resonated across Iraq and the Arab world. “Today we revisited some of his beloved songs, like ‘Tisbah Ala Khair,’ ‘Hai Min Allah Qismati,’ and ‘Helwa Ya Baghdadiya’—songs that held a special place in Iraqi hearts and were often sung by the public,” Hussein remarked.

Born on July 1, 1925, in Baghdad, Naeem’s passion for music and collaboration with Nazem al-Ghazali helped shape the iconic sound of Iraqi music, solidifying his legacy as a monumental figure in Iraq’s cultural history.