Lebanese artist Ziad Rahbani, renowned for his innovative contributions to Arabic music and contemporary Arab theatre, has experienced a recent decline in his health that has impacted his artistic output.
Rahbani, born on January 1, 1956, is the son of the legendary singer Fairuz and assi Rahbani, one half of the iconic Rahbani brothers. He carved out his own distinct artistic path, characterized by daring new ideas, intellectual depth, and a critical engagement wiht important social and political issues. His work frequently enough employs satire and profound insight, establishing him as a critically important figure in modern Arabic music and theater.
His artistic journey began at a young age. At 17, in 1973, he composed his first tune for his mother, Fairuz, with the highly accomplished song “They Asked Me People,” created while his father was hospitalized. He later penned numerous other lyrics for Fairuz, including “I Have a Longing,” “The Medium,” “I Have Confidence in You,” “I Will Be Raised,” “My Creation Is,” “Greet Him,” “Love Each Other,” and “Mount Sheikh,” among others.
Rahbani’s theatrical debut saw him playing a policeman in the play “The Station.” He later reprised this role in “Mays Al-Reem.” His own theatrical writing career took off with his first play, “Sahriya,” followed by other notable works such as “A Long American Film,” “Shi Faisal,” and “For Bakra Show.”
In his personal life, Ziad Rahbani was married to Dalal karam, with whom he later separated. He also had a 15-year relationship with Lebanese artist Carmen Lebs, which also ended in separation.