Bassma Boussail makes journey to stardom on Star Academy

14/05/2009

Moroccan singer Bassma Boussail continues her run on Star Academy 6, still going strong into the 13th prime on Friday.

By Imane Belhaj for Magharebia in Casablanca – 14/05/09

[Imane Belhaj] Moroccan contestant Bassma Boussail has earned the support of her peers and fans of Star Academy alike.

Moroccan contestant Bassma Boussail continues to offer fans a distinguished performance on the sixth season of Star Academy Lebanon. Thanks to her genuine talent, she stayed safe even when compatriot Khaoula Ben Omrane kissed her dreams of stardom goodbye in prime eight.

In prime 12 last week, Bassma looked performed with guest Egyptian star Angham, singing "Kol Manarab Leba'd" [Every Time We Come Closer]. For her solo performance, Bassma sang a new rendition of the Moroccan classic "Allash ya Ghazalli" [Why, Beloved] by late singer Maati Belkacem, accompanied by a traditional dance.

Bassma came second in the Top 4 of the week, thanks to what the Academy supervisors and teachers say are "great vocals, brilliant in her solo performances and attracts attention when she sings duets". The top spot belonged to Lebanon’s Michel Azzi, with Syria’s Mohamed Bach in third, and Lebanon’s Tania in fourth.

The 18-year-old Casablanca resident gave a sensational performance of "Set El Habayeb" [Beloved Mother] in previous primes, and won a trip to Turkey, where she will explore the country with a Turkish singer.

Ibrahim from Kuwait, who was awarded a visit to his homeland with three friends, chose Bassma, Mohamed Bash, and Egypt’s Lara. Together they plan on exploring the marvel and traditions of the Gulf nation.

Last Friday’s prime saw first time nominee Abdul Aziz from Saudi Arabia receiving the highest number of people's votes with 62.18%. Egypt's Aya had to pack and head home, having received only two of the students' votes versus Yehia of Jordan who garnered four.

Bassma has earned the adoration of fans and fellows alike. One supporter, student Fadoua Na'eem, commented, "Bassma managed to continue on the show thanks to her true talent, especially since she is a fan of Celine Dion and Britney Spears. This proves that she enjoys good music."

"Bassma is pretty and is a natural born star," said student Wafaa Djafari, who admires the singer for representing Morocco to the world. "She is always outstanding, whether singing solo or together with guests on the show."

Artist and former Star Academy winner Shada Hassoun, who was a guest on one of the primes, also praised Boussail for her hard work towards bettering her art.

Some fans, however, said they were worried the coming shows might bring some unexpected surprises.

"Many of the Moroccans who take part in the show give dazzling performances and are warmly applauded by everyone," said fan Lobna Sarir. "Yet, we are shocked to see them leave at the last minute. Therefore, we wonder whether there is some bias involved or some intentional exclusion."

This prime of Star Academy, which is broadcast on the Lebanese satellite channel LBC, also carried a humanitarian appeal, as the Academy management announced they would sell tickets for the 14th prime, dedicating all revenues to the Children's Cancer Centre for the first time in the history of the show.

Academy Director Rola Saad promised it would be a distinguished prime, with participation from Tunisian star Saber Rebai.