Jumana Jamal
Jumana Jamal, a Yemeni poet and composer, has become a shining name in the sky of contemporary Arabic music. Still in her third decade of life, she has already carved a distinctive mark through her collaborations with some of the Arab world’s greatest artists, offering a poetic and musical style that blends authenticity with modern sensibility.
Early Life and Emerging Talent Born in Yemen—though her hometown remains a well-kept secret—Jumana’s poetic talent emerged at an early age. By the age of twelve, her delicate fingers were already shaping her first verses, inspired by the great Arab poets, foremost among them Nizar Qabbani. She grew up in a household that valued culture and literature, nurturing her gift and refining her artistic sensibilities. The turbulent circumstances of her homeland left their imprint on her work, infusing her words with depth, sincerity, and raw emotion. Artistic Journey and Notable Collaborations Jumana’s rise to prominence began when her lyrics and compositions reached celebrated voices across the Arab world. A turning point in her career came with “You Passed Through My Chest,” a song performed by the legendary “Caesar” of Arabic music, Kadim Al Sahir, which revealed the maturity of her poetry. Her success continued as she formed a remarkable artistic partnership with Lebanese star Fadl Shaker, writing and composing for him a wide repertoire that resonated deeply with listeners.
Works and Collaborations Jumana’s creative footprint extends across the Arab music scene, contributing as both a lyricist and composer—and often combining the two. Among her most notable works:
Fadl Shaker: Her most prominent collaboration, including nearly an entire album and several singles such as “Sahak El Shouq,” “Hawa Al-Janoub,” “Ahlā Rasmeh,” “Ba‘deen Ma‘ak,” “Dawri Ya Farha,” “Rouh El-Bahr,” and “Qamari Multatham.”
Kadim Al Sahir: Performed her poem “You Passed Through My Chest,” which he set to music himself, marking a milestone in her career.
Asala Nasri: She composed “Al-Kursi” (The Chair), written by poet Khalaf Al-Khalaf.
Abdallah Al-Ruwaished: Wrote and composed “Kol Ma Qolt Irtawait,” a piece echoing Yemeni heritage in the spirit of the legendary Al-Mahdhari. Nawal Al-Kuwaitiyah: Composed “‘Ala Mahlak” (Take It Slow).
Abdel Majeed Abdallah: Composed the Saudi national team anthem “‘Ashiq Al-Fouz”* (Passionate About Victory).
In addition, she collaborated with Yemeni artists such as Hussein Mohib and Waleed Al-Jilani, maintaining her strong connection to her cultural roots. She also contributed theme songs for Ramadan TV series broadcast on *Al-Mahriya* channel, gaining wide popularity. Privacy and Life in the Diaspora Known for guarding her privacy, Jumana prefers to let her art speak on her behalf, shying away from the spotlight and limiting her media appearances. This aura of mystery has only heightened the public’s curiosity about her.
In her personal journey, she chose Egypt as her second home. Living in Cairo—the crossroads of Arab creativity—she found the right environment to refine her craft and strengthen her artistic presence while remaining deeply tied to her Yemeni heritage. Conclusion Jumana Jamal stands as an inspiring figure for Yemeni and Arab women alike—an artist whose talent has transcended borders. Through her poetry and music, she offers a refined art that speaks to the emotions of the Arab soul, carrying with her the fragrance of Yemen’s cultural legacy into the wider Arab world, from her adopted home in Cairo to audiences across the region.