At ninety, the “Voice of the Moon” continues to unite the Arab world with her timeless melodies.
Fairouz, born Nouhad Haddad on the 21st of November, 1934 (give or take one year), continues to mesmerise the Arab world with her voice for over seventy years. The Lebanese singer, now 90 years old, touches hearts with her music and cultural relevance.Â
Fairouz’s career started in the late 1940s, and she quickly gained fame with her first major hit, Itab, in the 1950s. Her collaboration with the Rahbani brothers—Assi Rahbani, who later became her husband, and Mansour Rahbani—was instrumental in her success, as they composed many of her songs.
Influence in the Levant
Fairouz’s music combines traditional Arabic melodies with modern elements, creating a unique sound. Her songs often feature themes of love, longing, and patriotism. This blend strikes a chord with listeners in the Levant. Songs like Zahrat al-Mada’in, “flower of the cities” in Arabic, which pays tribute to Jerusalem, and Li Beirut, a love letter to the Lebanese capital, are perfect examples of her connection to the region’s culture.
Fairouz’s work reaches across Lebanon, Syria, Jordan, and Palestine. Her music often contains a mix of classical Arabic and Levantine dialects, making it accessible to a wide audience. Tunes like Kifak Inta and Nassam Alayna al-Hawa bring back memories of home and cultural pride.
Nicknames and Imagery
Fairouz, also called Fairuz, is known by many nicknames, showing how much she is loved. Names like the “Jewel of Lebanon” and the “Voice of the Moon” capture her ethereal presence and the quality of her voice.
Her songs evoke strong images across the MENA region. For instance, her music often brings to mind thoughts of home, nostalgia, and cultural pride. This ability to stir emotions has made Fairouz a beloved figure in many Arab countries, bringing listeners together through shared cultural heritage.
Palestinian Outreach
Fairouz’s outreach to the Palestinian people is a big part of her legacy. Her songs, like Al-Quds, express solidarity with Palestinians and their struggles. This connection has earned her a special place in the hearts of many in Gaza, the West Bank, and the diaspora.
Performances in support of Palestinian rights and her unwavering stance on the issue have earned Fairouz respect from Palestinian communities. Her music channels their pain and hope, creating a lasting bond between her and the Palestinian people, across Arab communities.
A Message of Unity
Fairouz’s influence extends beyond the Levant and Palestine. Her music strikes a chord with people in North Africa and the Gulf countries as well. In Egypt, Fairouz’s songs are a staple in cafes and homes, while in the Maghreb, her voice is a symbol of the al-Nahda: the Arab world’s renaissance.
In the Gulf, her music brings a sense of nostalgia and cultural pride. Her ability to connect with diverse audiences across different cultures and backgrounds showcases her universal appeal. Themes of love, loss, and patriotism in her songs resonate deeply with listeners, creating a shared sense of identity and belonging.
Legacy of Fairouz
Fairouz’s impact as a cultural icon of the Levant and the MENA region remains unmatched. Her timeless music, dedication to cultural heritage, and support for popular causes have earned her a lasting place in the hearts of millions. As Fairouz celebrates her 90th birthday, her voice continues to inspire and unite people across the Arab world.
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