Biography
Ali Bahar (Arabic: علي بحر; 1960 – July 3, 2011) was a Bahraini singer-songwriter, guitarist, and organist best known as the frontman of the band Al Ekhwa (Arabic: الإخوة, lit. The Brothers). Revered across the Gulf for his emotive performances and charismatic presence, Bahar earned the nickname “the Bob Marley of the Gulf” and is frequently cited as one of the most influential musicians in the history of Bahrain and the wider Arab world.
Bahar gained prominence in the 1980s, performing at national concerts and international music festivals. His distinctive voice and fusion of Khaliji rhythms with reggae-inflected grooves garnered him a devoted following, particularly in Bahrain, the United Arab Emirates, and Oman.
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Born in Muharraq, Bahrain’s third-largest city, Bahar came from a humble background—his father was a fisherman. He also spent part of his life in Sharjah, United Arab Emirates where he cultivated close friendships and maintained a strong base of supporters. In 1986, he formed Al Ekhwa, taking on the roles of lead vocalist, guitarist, and organist. The group became a cornerstone of the Bahraini music scene, helping to define the sound of modern Gulf music while retaining deep ties to traditional forms.
Biography text from Last.fm, available under CC BY-SA.