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Somali musician Yurub Genyo rocks Eastleigh in debut concert

Somali musician Yurub Mohamed Abdi, also known as Yurub Genyo performs at Paradise Mall in Eastleigh on April 17, 2024. Photo: Abdirahman Khalif

By Abdirahman Khalif | 18 Apr 2024

Yurub Genyo was part of Xiddigaha Geeska, a musical group that began in Hargeisa in 2004. The group gained initial recognition for their support of one of the Somali television channels.

Hundreds of fans packed Paradise Hall in Eastleigh Wednesday night for a concert by renowned Somalia musician Yurub Mohamed Abdi, also known as Yurub Genyo.

The Somaliland-based singer, accompanied by a talented group of local musicians, belted out her popular songs, including a dhaanto tune, to the delight of the audience.

This marked Yurub Genyo's first concert in Eastleigh, and fans couldn't get enough of her powerful vocals.

Yurub Genyo's performance included "Waa ley helo," a love song that explains how she is deeply in love. In the song, she explains the reasons why she thinks, love has hit her.

"Waa ley helo" captivated the audience, especially the young people who raised their voices the moment it came on symbolizing their satisfaction with it. They danced with infectious energy.

Hudheifa Mohamed who was among the attendees said he came to see Yurub Genyo as he was a big fan of her music.

"I have been listening to her music for so many years, her performing right in front of me is an opportunity I could not miss," said Hudheifa.

Somali musician Yurub Mohamed Abdi, also known as Yurub Genyo performs at Paradise Mall in Eastleigh on April 17, 2024. Photo: Abdirahman Khalif

Ibrahim Hassan echoed the sentiments of Hudheifa saying all Somalis agree on the greatness of Yurub Genyo when it comes to Somali music.

"She is one of the best Somali musicians, we call her Sautu Rahma, the voice of peace," said Ibrahim.

Yurub Genyo was part of Xiddigaha Geeska, a musical group that began in Hargeisa in 2004. The group gained initial recognition for their support of one of the Somali television channels. The band quickly gained popularity, earning widespread acceptance in Somaliland and other regions inhabited by the Somali community.

The concert, though scheduled for an 8 pm start, began at 11 pm and continued into the early morning hours, reflecting the peaceful nighttime atmosphere in Eastleigh.

The event also proved to be a boon for Eastleigh YouTubers who captured captivating content for their channels.

Little altercations amongst supporters at the end of the concert marred its popularity, but no injuries were reported, and the evening concluded without an incident.

Yurub Genyo's debut concert in Eastleigh was a resounding success, bringing the Somali music enthusiast community in Eastleigh together for an unforgettable night of music and celebration. Her talent and charisma left a lasting impression on all who were lucky to attend.