Eddie "The Sheik" Kochak, often revered as the 'Amer-Abic' music pioneer, made significant contributions to the North American world music scene by infusing traditional Middle Eastern rhythms with contemporary Western sounds. Born in Brooklyn, New York, Kochak's Syrian-Lebanese heritage played a vital role in his musical journey, bringing the rich tapestry of Arabic sounds to a wider audience. Throughout his career, Kochak has been a celebrated drummer, bandleader, and a key figure in popularizing belly dancing music in the United States.

His extensive work includes a series of albums devoted to this genre, notably with his acclaimed "Strictly Belly Dancing" series, which has become a staple for dancers and enthusiasts alike. This collection showcases Kochak's talent in creating engaging beats and melodies that encapsulate the exotic charm of Middle Eastern music. Albums like "Caravan of Amer-Abic Music" and "A Night at the Casbah" further exhibit his distinctive blend of traditional instrumentation with innovative arrangements, solidifying Eddie "The Sheik" Kochak not only as a cherished musician but also as an essential cultural bridge between East and West.

Genres

Belly Dance

Darbuka

Latest Release

Caravan of Amer-Abic Music

Eddie the Sheik Kochak

Album - 15 Tracks - Released June 4, 2007