Al-Zamil Art

Al-Zamil Art is an old traditional singing art. Initially popular in Aseer and Najran Provinces, southwest of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, it was then performed throughout the southern region. Al-Zamil poems vary according to the occasion. Its performance is rather vocal and features no rhythm.

Al-Zamil art is performed on special occasions. It aims to establish cooperation between the village residents or tribe members in specific situations, such as amidst risks or disasters, during harvest seasons, while building houses or drilling wells, when men head to specific destinations, during wedding ceremonies, upon asking for help, and while solving issues.

Al-Zamil is a form of collective art that differs from one region to another. The difference is apparent in terms of performance and melody. Performers, ranging between five and sixty persons, would stand in one semi-circular row or two parallel rows and then advance in one row to the event location.

The poet would recite a part of the verse of the poem, and then one of the rows of performers would chant it. Then, he would recite the other part of the verse before the other row chants it. Performers, standing according to their height and voice range, would march quietly, while taking steps forward, led by the oldest performer.