As the world watches Gaza with heavy hearts, a profound artistic response to its ongoing suffering is making waves across social media. Palestinian composer and writer Nahed Elrayes recently released a remix of Gaza-based music teacher Ahmed Muin Abu Amsha’s moving ‘Drone Song.’ Released on October 2, this remix has resonated deeply, much like the original, which intensifies the unsettling drone sounds that have tragically become a part of daily life for children in Gaza. In a region scarred by relentless violence, this song transcends a mere sonic experience; it stands as a testament to art’s power to bear witness, evoke profound empathy, and foster healing.
The ‘Drone Song’ found its beginnings in a Gaza classroom. Ahmed noticed his students were increasingly distressed, suffering from headaches and anxiety caused by the constant hum of military drones. Their teacher describes this as “the baddest sound in this war.” When the children asked to stop lessons, Ahmed offered a unique solution: he encouraged them to sing along with the drone’s sound. This act of creative defiance—transforming an oppressive buzz into a poignant chorus—has captured global attention as videos of their performances spread widely online.
The ‘Drone Song’ also carries a rich literary heritage, drawing inspiration from Palestinian cultural icon Zaid Hilal’s folk-inspired piece, ‘Shayl ya Jamal Shayl.’ Its verses poignantly declare: ‘Carry on, oh camel driver, carry on, The martyr’s blood is perfumed with cardamom, woe, woe unto the oppressor, woe to him from God, I shall stay up with the stars of the night, calling out to him.’
A boy sitting in the middle of the street witnessing the destruction that occurred in one of the main commercial streets in Gaza | Photo Credit: UNDP/PAPP
“My musical group, Gaza Birds Singing, is formed by displaced children and talented music teachers. Together, we sing for love, freedom, and life. Through music, we strive to help children reclaim their voices and offer them hope. I dream of sharing our music with the world, traveling, performing, and becoming a voice of beauty from Gaza—not a voice of war. We truly believe the world can be a better place if only it would listen to the voice of art,” Ahmed shares on his website, “Songs From The Rubble.”
Since Ahmed’s peace-inspired musical endeavor began, a wave of solidarity performances based on the ‘Drone Song’ has swept across the globe. Artists from various genres and geographies have lent their voices, from Californian hip-hop artist Alia Sharrief, known for her empowering ‘Hijabi Chronicles’, to New York-based singer-songwriter Morley Shanti Kamen and acclaimed violinist Arun Ramamurthy, who previously collaborated with Abu Amsha on ‘HeartFlower’ and ‘Zahrat al-Mada’en.’ The Palestinian-American Artist Collective also created a choral arrangement, and musicians in Vienna offered their distinctive interpretation. These and many other performances have transformed the ‘Drone Song’ into a powerful anthem of unity, carrying Ahmed’s message of peace across borders and cultures.
Discussing ‘HeartFlower,’ Arun Ramamurthy, the renowned Indian classical violinist, composer, and educator, shared: “It was the brainchild of my dear friend, singer and activist Morley. I had heard about Ahmed and the incredible work he’s doing to uplift the spirits of the Palestinian people through music, and it deeply moved me.”
As a co-founder of Brooklyn Raga Massive, a collective of U.S.-based Indian classical musicians constantly pushing artistic boundaries, Arun has long understood music’s power to connect hearts across cultures. “In the track, Ahmed utilized the pitch of military drones as a melodic base, much like a tambura. It was an honor to add a small violin contribution. I wanted to demonstrate my unwavering support for their cause. It’s vital for them to know that we stand with them, always listening.”
Ahmed and Morley connected through Amy Gail, a mutual friend who has been dedicated to supporting him and other humanitarian efforts in Gaza for some time.
The ‘Drone Song’ beautifully illustrates the immense significance of music activism, highlighting how art, often perceived as mere entertainment, plays a crucial role in sustaining hope, fostering resilience, and inspiring transformative change. On October 4, an incredible 300,000 people gathered in Barcelona to sing the song, specifically acknowledging Ahmed “for being one of the stars that have kept us awake at this night sky in search of meaning.” The very next day, October 5, the ‘Drone Song’ resonated during the Red Line Church Service at Keizersgracht Church in Amsterdam, followed by a powerful demonstration where 250,000 people urged their government to take “real action to stop the genocide in Gaza.”
Meanwhile, the unassuming music teacher and his Gaza Birds Singing group, greatly encouraged by the overwhelming global support, have released their next song, ‘My North.’ This piece is a traditional Palestinian melody, revitalized with fresh arrangements that convey both profound pain and an enduring love for their city. Undeterred by scarce resources and challenging conditions, the team recorded the song simply using a mobile phone. From the impactful ‘Drone Song’ to the heartfelt ‘My North,’ it’s clear that voices rising above the rubble cannot be silenced, echoing the resilient heartbeat of a city that continues to dream.