Richard DaleRap has historically served as the music of disobedience and protest, particularly in regions of marginalization and displacement, a reality deeply entrenched in the Palestinian experience. Since the Second Intifada, rap, coupled with a spoken-word movement, has emerged as the chosen poetry for emboldening Palestinian youth and confronting power structures.
The Unity Intifada of 2021 epitomized this phenomenon. Sparked by the forced displacement of families in Sheikh Jarrah, Jerusalem, and intensified by a two-week bombardment of Gaza, the global response was unprecedented. From Tokyo to Cape Town and the West Bank, protestors flooded the streets, united by one anthem: “Inn Ann.”
This powerful track, the brainchild of newcomer Daboor and BLTNM heavyweight Shabjdeed, reverberated across the globe, encapsulating the indomitable spirit of Palestinian resistance. Its resonant verses served as a rallying cry, galvanizing millions and cementing its status as the anthem of the intifada.
But amidst the fervor surrounding “Inn Ann,” one question echoed louder than the music itself: Who is Daboor?
Enter Mohammad Karaki, known by his stage name Daboor, which translates to ‘wasp’ in Arabic. However, in everyday life, he goes by Jerry. Daboor’s journey into rap began with the influence of Shabjdeed, a prominent figure in Ramallah’s rap scene. Inspired by Shabjdeed’s raw lyricism and authenticity, Daboor found his own voice in the genre.
Their paths intertwined when Shabjdeed discovered Daboor’s talent, marking a pivotal moment in Daboor’s ascent to prominence. Reflecting on this journey, Daboor acknowledges the role of serendipity, emphasizing the interconnectedness of talent, opportunity, and digital connectivity in shaping his rise in the music industry.
In the end, Daboor’s story serves as a testament to the power of music to transcend boundaries, amplify voices, and galvanize movements for change.
