Biography

Jowan Safadi- Palestinian, Haifa based multi genre musician, singer songwriter and front man of FISHSAMAK-Free Arabic rock band. Mostly known for his sarcastic protest and political songs often considered provocative. Jowan started his career in the late 90s as LENSES and put out 3 experimental albums in 2001-2007. He broke through to the Arab world audience with the release of his 2012 album Namrud, breaking social taboos with songs such as “Electricity”, and quirky parody “Poor Infidels” which rapidly became an anthem for fans across the Arab world, and subsequently led to his detention in Jordan, for which Jowan was accused of blasphemy. His lyrics can be controversial– subtly toned with his personal reflections on a wide range of issues related to politics, religion and philosophy, morality and sexuality. These fundamental components are what give his work a rare and revealing authenticity, making him one of the most influential contemporary artists in the Arabic scene. His 2015 controversial summer hit To Be an Arab reached to Israeli and International media, with a strong message to the racist Israeli society. The story behind the song, Jowan’s life, music and message are the subject of Austrian director’s Fernando Romero documentary Namrud, which was named after Jowan’s debut official solo album. check out Stay Away from the Mid-Evil East and Sing for it is, or in Arabic: إبعد عن الشرق وغنيله Jowan's latest release- An 8 Arabic rock and post punk songs.