The Egyptian pop singer, Shaaban Abdel Rahim, has withdrawn his decision to sit for the Musician's Association test, after he had applied for transferring his membership from a "subscriber" to professional status.
According to the Arabic daily al Sharq al Awsat, he decided to return home, on his way to the committee, as soon as he found out that Hilmi Baker was to Chair the examination; who is known for administering the exam strictly
“The test includes questions about musical knowledge including rhythms and cadences, in addition to good knowledge of the Arabic language. The last condition cannot be met by Shaaban as he is illiterate, and therefore cannot read or write Arabic.
It is noteworthy to mention that the “association” was about to withdraw Shaaban’s membership after he released a single in which he said he would tear up his membership. However, the pop singer later apologized for the song in a statement he released —Albawaba.com
© 2002 Al Bawaba (www.albawaba.com)
