ISIRKA

S7EP2. The Longevity of Ilkacase Qays Recap.

For over two decades, Ilkacase Qays has carved out a space for himself in Somali music, evolving alongside the culture while remaining true to his artistry. From his early days in Somali hip-hop to his continued influence on audiences across the diaspora, his career speaks to the power of reinvention, consistency, and cultural connection.

In this episode, I revisit my writing on Ilkacase Qays and reflect on his longevity, his contributions to Somali music, and the ways his work has resonated with different generations of listeners. We also talk about what it means to build a legacy in an industry that is constantly changing.

Continue exploring Ilkacase Qays through ISIRKA:

📰 Geeska: Ilkacase Qays and the New Language of Somali Love | https://www.geeska.com/en/ilkacase-qays-and-new-language-somali-love

✍🏾 Substack: Isku Dhiig Baan Nahay — Ilkacase Qays | https://aminaisir.substack.com/p/isku-dhiig-baan-nahay-ilkacase-qays?utm_source=publication-search

🎶 ISIRKA Music Mix: For the Music — Ilkacase Qays | https://isirka.simplecast.com/episodes/s5ep13-ilkacase-music-mix-0rBRk_9r

S6EP6. In this final episode of my Hargeisa subseries, I take you on a personal sonic journey through Hargeisa — the city that feels like rhythm, memory, and movement all at once. These are the songs that remind me of long drives through the city, of laughter in courtyards, and of quiet moments watching the sunset fade behind the hills.

Each track carries a story: of belonging, of rediscovery, of what it means to feel at home in a place that still surprises me. From timeless Somali classics to the songs that filled my playlists during late night rides — this is my soundtrack to the city that continues to shape my heart and my work.

Join me as we listen, reminisce, and explore what Hargeisa sounds like to me.

S6EP5. This episode is the second installment of my YouTube conversations, with Samiya Hashi of Somaliland Tourists- you can watch this episode on YouTube @isirkapodcast. We discussed the way the return home allowed us an ability to connect with our foremothers and live according to their advice and example. Samiya has been living in Hargeisa with her foremothers for the past few years and shared the realities of living in a female only household admist a male dominated society. We of course took the conversation to discuss music as well and the overall learnings from being in the motherland.

🎧 Listen wherever you get your podcasts and join us in this reflection on belonging, womanhood, and the beauty of being rooted in your people.

S6EP4. This episode is a little different — the tables are turned, and I’m the one being interviewed. ✨This episode is the first installment of our YouTube conversations, you can watch this episode on YouTube @isirkapodcast.

Samiya, the brilliant soul behind Somaliland Tourists (on Youtube) , sat down with me to talk about my work with ISIRKA, my journey and why storytelling, culture, and identity are at the heart of everything I do.

We talked about what it means to grow up rooted in stories, to hold onto language and music, and to build spaces where Somali people can see and hear themselves fully.

If you’ve ever felt a pull toward your roots or wanted to better understand the power of telling our own stories, I think you’ll really feel this one.

🎧 Listen wherever you get your podcasts and join us in this reflection on belonging, memory, and the beauty of Somali culture.

S6EP2. In this deeply personal episode, I reflect on my journey to Hargeisa — the lessons, the growth, and the undeniable impact it had on my life. From new opportunities and self-discovery to the people I met along the way, this experience reshaped how I see the world. But with the beauty came heartbreak. Some of those I connected with are no longer with us, and this episode is also a tribute to their memory. Join me as I unpack the complex layers of this chapter — the gains that pushed me forward, and the losses that left a mark.

S6EP1. This episode is the first of Season 6:Hargeisa Homecoming. In this introductory episode I share a little about what my Hargiesa trip was like. This was such an enriching and fulfilling trip and I've thoroughly enjoyed all the different learning lessons of this summer. This season will shed light on my personal experiences and reflections and I'm really giving Hargeisa its time.

Whether you've been to Hargeisa or are just curious about the heartbeat of Somaliland, this episode sets the tone for a season rooted in reflection, reconnection, and rediscovery.

Join me as we begin this new chapter — one filled with stories of place, belonging, and the ties that shape us.

S5EP13. We’re closing out Season 5: For the Music with none other than the King of Summer 2025—Ilkacase Qays. I began the summer with a written piece about him on my Substack (aminaisir.substack.com), and it feels only right to end the season with this music mix, a sonic journey through his discography.

Often celebrated as the King of Somali rap, Ilkacase’s artistry stretches far beyond his sharp verses and anthems. In this mix, I’m spotlighting his softer side—the love songs that earned him the name Qays. That title wasn’t given in vain. Across his career, Ilkacase has given us timeless ballads that blend vulnerability with swagger, making his catalogue just as much about love and longing as it is about energy and grit.

This episode is a celebration of his range: from the romantic tracks that tug at the heart to the unforgettable banger that made this summer his. So press play, enjoy the mix, and let’s honor Ilkacase Qays as he closes out this season of the podcast: for the Music.

For a full track list:

2:58- Nafaqayso

3:22- Baarka Sare ft. Ahmed Jabiye

4:20- Somali Baan Ahay ft. Ahmed Jabiye

5:28- Idaadahee ft. Iqra Yare

9:08- Ayaan Dhalad

12:48- Billion Dhan ft. Mohamed Biibshe

15:05- Queen Huda

15:45- Axdi ft. Kiin Jaamac

18:11- Gabdhahenow Xaalqaata ft. Ahmed Jabiye

20:50- Geenyadii Maalin Guur

23:23- Jacayl Qabya Tiran

25:31- Lamataabtaan

27:18- Miro Dhadhan Macaan ft. Kiin Jaamac

30:04- Kaalay Nafta Maamulo ft. Katriina

32:34- Iska Iloow

35:33- Dahab Lamoodyey

36:03- Sacabka ii Tuma

36:59- State of Abdi Kumade

S5EP12. In this episode, I talk to Dr. Christina Woolner, the author of Love Songs in Motion: Voicing Intimacy in Somaliland, to explore the deep cultural significance of Somali love songs. Together, we unpack the ways music, poetry, and performance shape expressions of intimacy, identity, and social connection in Somaliland. Dr. Woolner shares her research journey, weaving in stories about the lives and voices behind these songs, and how they reflect shifting notions of love, gender, and belonging in Somali society. We recorded this conversation after we had a conversation about her book during London Somali Week Festival.

Join us for an engaging conversation that blends scholarship, storytelling, and a shared passion for Somali cultural expression.