Mohamad al-Amin is one the most respected oud (lute) players in Sudan. Through a long and tempestuous career, he has managed to create music that thrills Sudan's citizens even while it infuriates the powers that be. In 1971 he was thrown in jail after censors detected oblique social criticism in his song "Wahayat Ibtissamtak" (I Swear by your Smile). He toured England in 1982 and, after repeated confrontations with the hardline Islamic government, moved to Egypt, where he continues to record and perform. ~ Leon Jackson, All Music Guide