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Music of Somaliland
Taarab on the Swahili coast, Ethio-jazz and the krar, Somali qaraami, Benga guitar music, Kenyan and Tanzanian bongo flava.
Sung and searched in Somali. The YouTube button above can run your search in that language.
A brief history
History
Hargeisa became a center of music beginning in the 1940s, with the establishment of Radio Hargeisa, then the only radio source of live Somali performances. Early performers on the station included Mohamed Saeed "Guron-Jire" and the Hargeisa Brothers Band (Walaalaha Hargeysa), founded by Abdulahi Mohamed Mahmoud "Qarshe". The station played specialized music during Ramadan.
In the 21st century, Somaliland has experienced an artistic revival, led by organized musical collectives based in Hargeisa.
Established in Hargeisa, Xidigaha Geeska (Stars of the Horn) is a prominent group of singers and musicians. They are credited with modernizing the "nationalistic ballad" and encouraging social cohesion through songs like "Allow Noo Tiirisee" and "Gooni Isu Taag." Notable members include Mohamed BK, Yurub Geenyo, and Mursal Muse.
Popular music
Contemporary revival
In the 21st century, Somaliland has experienced an artistic revival, led by organized musical collectives based in Hargeisa.
Established in Hargeisa, Xidigaha Geeska (Stars of the Horn) is a prominent group of singers and musicians. They are credited with modernizing the "nationalistic ballad" and encouraging social cohesion through songs like "Allow Noo Tiirisee" and "Gooni Isu Taag." Notable members include Mohamed BK, Yurub Geenyo, and Mursal Muse.
The Dayax Band represents a younger generation of artists known for high-production music videos and high-energy performances. They frequently perform during national holidays and are known for tracks like "Ku Qosla Bulshadaydiiyey".
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Playing now
What Somaliland is listening to in 2026
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