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Lebanese musician, composer, and playwright Ziad Rahbani, the son of legendary singer Fairuz, passed away Saturday at the age of 69 after battling an illness at a hospital in Beirut, according to the National News Agency.
Ziad Rahbani, born in 1956, was the eldest son of legendary Lebanese singer Fairuz and renowned composer Assi Rahbani. He began composing for his mother as a teenager and was the creative force behind iconic songs such as “Kifak Inta” and “Bala Wala Shi.” His father, Assi Rahbani, was also a celebrated musical figure in Lebanon.
His theatrical productions were known for their sharp political and social commentary, combined with humor and wit.
He was widely beloved and enjoyed broad popularity, making the news of his passing deeply saddening for his audience—even prompting Lebanese President Joseph Aoun to publicly mourn him on X. Aoun expressed his wish for Rahbani to rest in peace, describing him as "not just an artist but a complete intellectual and cultural phenomenon … a living conscience, a voice rebellious against injustice, and an honest mirror."
President Aoun concluded, saying that Ziad Rahbani’s numerous remarkable works will remain alive in the memory of the Lebanese and the Arab world, inspiring future generations and reminding them that art can be a form of resistance, and words can stand as a powerful stance.
Fairuz shared an exceptional bond with her son Ziad, one that went beyond family ties to a rare artistic partnership that began early in their careers. At just fifteen, Ziad composed the song “Saalouny El Nas” for his mother during his father, Assi Rahbani’s, illness.
Over the following decades, Ziad developed a distinctive and unconventional musical voice, composing some of Fairuz’s most famous songs, including “Adesh Kan Fi Nas”, “Eh Fi Amal,” “Ahwak,” “Awedak Rannan,” and “Wala Keef.” He introduced a new style of musical arrangement and artistic vision.
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