Hamada Helal to Arab Today: I’m optimistic about Egypt’s future

Egyptian artist Hamada Helal expressed his delight over the reactions for his song, Taheya lel Shaab al Masry, (Salute to the Egyptian People), pointing out that the new track was dedicated to the people of Egypt. In an exclusive interview with Arab Today, Helal said that the song was for his fellow citizens who achieved their demands following the June 30 protest. The singer hopes to shoot the video for the song, written by poet Mohamed Gomaa, as soon ?photographic material of the latest events in Egypt are ready.? On recent developments in Egypt, Helal said: “I am optimistic about the future. The protesters are geniuses; from the way they demonstrated to their organisation and their creativity, Egyptians have proven their worth to the world.\" The singer denied belonging to the Muslim Brotherhood or Salafis saying: “I am only a Muslim who believes in one God and I do not belong to any political movement.\" Talking about his acting career, the star spoke about turning down a part in the drama series Al Rakeen, which is currently being shown on a number of Arab channels. “The rumours regarding a conflict between me and the Egyptian Media Production City are not true,\" Helal disclosed to Arab Today. \"Rather, I was worried about conflict in schedules for my singing and acting career, which prompted me to turn down the part. It would have required complete dedication from me which was not possible at the time” he added. Helal wished the team of the series luck and expressed his disappointment in missing the chance to work with Gamal Abdel Hamed and Mahmoud Abdel Moghny. Concerning the latest news of his collaboration with the son of Sheikh Mohamed Hassan on a religious song, Helal commented: “The song is still being prepared and is being shot in different countries including India, Saudi Arabia and Turkey, thus needs special preparation and time. I am really happy to be working with the son of Sheikh Hassan, especially since he is such a youthful intellect.\"