Renowned Folklore Singer Asia Madani Passes Away in Egypt

Popular folklore singer and percussionist Asia Musa Abdullah Bilal, known professionally as Asia Madani, passed away on 16 February 2025 in Cairo, Egypt after suffering from an undisclosed illness.

The funeral is taking place on 17 February at Nabih Yakun education centre in Cairo.

Originally from Wad Madani in Al Gezira State, Asia Madani’s extraordinary musical journey spanned nearly a quarter of a century. She began her musical and singing career in Cairo in 2001. At around 18 years old, she performed for the first time at the Cairo Opera House, embarking on a path dedicated to showcasing Sudanese cultures through music for nearly 25 years.

Performing traditional Sudanese folklore as well as music from various African regions, Asia has made her mark worldwide. She has toured the world with initiatives such as AfriCairo, the Nile Project, and Zanzibar’s Sauti za Busara.

Throughout her career, Asia produced dozens of songs and original compositions, as well as several albums, including Al Zoul.

Her music was deeply rooted in African rhythms and traditional Sudanese folklore, influenced by her heritage spanning Sudan’s north, south, and west. She also excelled in performing Zār music, a vital part of Sudan’s folk musical heritage.

Beyond music, Asia was known for her humanitarian work with refugees and for her politically critical voice against Sudan’s ruling regimes.

Many took to social media to mourn her loss.

جثمان الراحلة الجميلة آسيا مدني بمستشفي المنيرة بالسيدة زينب
وسيكون الدفن بالمقابر الشرقية في ٦ إكتوبر

لاحول ولاقوة الا بالله https://t.co/IsucC5h6QT

— weam shawgi-نمشي وين (@Golama_Isies) February 16, 2025

ربنا يرحمها و يغفر اليها. وفاة الفنانة اسيا مدني بالقاهرة
Beloved Sudanese folklore singer Asia Madani passed away after an illness in Cairo today. She had preformed globally in stages across Africa, Europe & the Middle East. Details of the funeral below.https://t.co/DLbIg43MD3 https://t.co/w4mZjkjPUW

— بنت نوبية (@NU_B_YA) February 16, 2025

May Asia Medani rest in peace. We have lost a beautiful and talented Sudanese artist! pic.twitter.com/HAfpAZCHfo

— Nisrin Elamin (@minlayla77) February 16, 2025

For more information, see Asia Madani’s Facebook page or facebook.com/AsiaMadaniBand