Births on February 26

Najwa Karam, Lebanese singer.

Unveiling Najwa Karam: The Sun of Lebanese and Arabic Song

Born on February 26, 1966, the acclaimed , whose name in Arabic is نجوى كرم and pronounced [ˈnaʒwa ˈkaɾam] in Lebanese Arabic, stands as a towering figure in . More than just a , she is a celebrated songwriter and a distinctive , often affectionately known as "The Sun Of Lebanese and Arabic Song." Her unparalleled influence has carved a unique niche, blending traditional with contemporary sounds, and significantly contributing to the spread of the across the broader Arab music landscape.

The Musical Journey: From Rising Star to Iconic Status

The Ascent in the 1990s: Forging a Unique Sound

's ascent to stardom truly blossomed throughout the 1990s, a decade that saw her earn the enduring moniker , which translates to "The Sun of Song," derived from her impactful eponymous album. Her distinctive vocal powerhouse quickly captivated audiences, setting her apart. During this prolific period, she released several highly successful albums including "Naghmet Hob," "Ma Bassmahlak," "Maghroumeh," and "Rouh Rouhi," each showcasing her innovative blend of traditional melodies and modern arrangements. This unique style not only garnered her a vast and loyal audience but also helped solidify her status as a pioneering force in .

The Turn of the Millennium: Record-Breaking Success

As the new millennium dawned, 's career reached stratospheric heights. Her tenth album, "Oyoun Qalbi," released in 2000, became her highest-selling record to date, cementing her commercial dominance. This was swiftly followed in 2001 by her album "Nedmaneh," which sold millions of copies worldwide, a testament to her global appeal. This period of immense success brought a cascade of accolades, including a prestigious for Best Arabic Artist. Furthermore, her collaboration with , one of the Arab world's leading record labels, yielded multiple awards, recognizing her as Artist of the Year, for Album of the Year, and for having the Highest-Selling Album of the Year. By the time her album "Saharni" was released in 2003, had unequivocally established herself as one of the most prominent and a bonafide , celebrated for her vocal prowess and cultural impact.

Enduring Influence and Pioneering Collaborations

Throughout the late 2000s and into the 2010s, 's commercial success showed no signs of waning. Albums like "Hayda Haki," "Am Bemzah Ma'ak," and "Khallini Shoufak" continued to resonate deeply with her fanbase. Her artistic endeavors often involved collaborations with musical legends. She frequently worked with the renowned musician and composer Melhem Barakat, creating memorable pieces. A particularly poignant moment in her career was her critically acclaimed 2004 duet with the legendary singer Wadih el Safi, titled "W Kberna" ("We Grow Old Together"), which beautifully showcased their combined vocal artistry. Ever an innovator, made history in 2011 by collaborating with and to produce the Arab World's first 3D music video for her song "Ma Fi Noum," from her record "Hal Layle... Ma Fi Nom," demonstrating her commitment to pushing boundaries in music production. Her latest studio album, "Menni Elak," released in 2017, was also met with widespread acclaim, reinforcing her enduring presence in the industry. Today, she continues to enthrall audiences with performances across the Arab world and internationally.

Beyond the Mic: Television, Global Recognition, and Impact

Judging Talent on Arabs Got Talent

In 2011, expanded her reach into television, making her debut as a judge on the popular reality competition series . Her charismatic presence and insightful critiques quickly made her a fan favorite, and she has since been a fixture on the show, appearing in all six of its seasons. This role has further cemented her status as a beloved public figure, allowing her to connect with a wider audience and share her vast experience in the entertainment industry.

A Global Icon: Accolades and Influence

's influence extends far beyond her music. Her significant cultural impact and impressive social media footprint have earned her global recognition. In 2017, acknowledged her prominence, ranking her number 5 on their list of "The Top 100 Arab Celebrities," noting her substantial reach with over 26.58 million social media followers. The following year, her inspiring journey and achievements were highlighted by , which included her on their list of "The 15 Most Inspiring Women In The Middle East." That same year, further recognized her international stature by featuring her on their list of the "Top 10 of Arab Stars On The Global Stage." Her elegance and stature have also graced international events, notably her appearance on the Red Carpet at the 65th Cannes Film Festival in 2012. With more than 60 million records sold worldwide, remains the best-selling recording artist in the , having achieved the highest-selling Middle Eastern artist title in multiple years (1999, 2000, 2001, 2003, 2009, 2011, and 2017). Her unparalleled success and ability to blend traditional heritage with modern appeal ensure her legacy as a true and musical legend endures.

Frequently Asked Questions about Najwa Karam

Who is Najwa Karam?

is a globally renowned , songwriter, and , celebrated for her powerful voice and unique blend of traditional and contemporary .

When was Najwa Karam born?

She was born on February 26, 1966.

What is Najwa Karam famous for?

is famous for her distinct vocal style, particularly her , hit albums like "Oyoun Qalbi" and "Nedmaneh," being a judge on , and for being one of the best-selling artists in the . She is also known as "The Sun Of Lebanese and Arabic Song" ().

What are some of her most popular songs and albums?

Some of her popular albums include "Oyoun Qalbi," "Nedmaneh," "Saharni," and "Menni Elak." Notable collaborations include "W Kberna" with Wadih el Safi and "Ma Fi Noum."

Has Najwa Karam received any significant awards or recognitions?

Yes, she has received numerous awards, including a for Best Arabic Artist and multiple awards. She has also been recognized by and as a top Arab celebrity and inspiring woman.

What is her role on Arabs Got Talent?

has been a prominent and beloved judge on the reality competition television series since its debut in 2011, appearing in all six seasons.

What record labels has Najwa Karam worked with?

She has primarily worked with , one of the largest record labels in the Arab world, and also collaborated with for her 3D music video.