Abdel Hakim Abdel Samad Kamel, known professionally as Hakim, was born on February 12, 1962, in Maghagha, near Al-Minya, Egypt. He began his musical journey influenced by Ahmed Adawiya and started performing Mawal, vocal improvisations typical of Shaabi music. At age 14, he formed his first group, performing at local events. Hakim's breakthrough came with the release of his debut album Nazra in 1992 under Slam Records, which quickly gained him popularity in Egypt. He followed this success with several albums including Nar (1994), Efred (1997), and Hayel (1998). Hakim represented Egypt at the Festival des Allumées in Nantes in 1994 and was nominated for a Kora Award in 1997. Throughout his career, he collaborated with notable artists such as Narada Michael, Olga Tañon, James Brown, and Don Omar. His music, blending Shaabi with Western influences, earned him recognition as one of the leading figures in Jeel or Gil music.
