Throughout the years, the Rahbani family has been engraved in the heart of Lebanese and Arab musical legacy. Blending Western and Oriental sounds, they forged a new voice for the region. From Assi Rahbani, Elias Rahbani, and Mansour Rahbani to Ziad Rahbani, and through their collaborations with legends like Fayrouz, their intertwined careers left behind albums where neither time nor change could diminish the sincerity of their artistry.
Hedou’ Nesby – Ziad Rahbani (1985)
A captivating fusion of styles, the album weaves jazz with oriental melodies, creating a sound both modern and deeply rooted in tradition. It is best known for standout tracks such as ‘Rouh Khabbir,’ ‘Khalas,’ and ‘Bala Wala Shi,’ which showcase the richness and versatility of this unique blend.
Mosaic of the Orient – Elias Rahbani (1972)
Elias Rahbani’s beautiful merge between genres was flawless here, from New Age, Jazz to Dabke and Lebanese Pop, the album was an experience that was new of its kind, wholehearted. It’s a cultural intersection by all means.
Sayf 840 (Highlights from the Musical Play) – Mansour Rahbani
Set in 1840 Antelias, the play follows Mira, the yuzbashi’s daughter, who sympathizes with rebels and draws the attention of their leader, Saif al-Bahr. With humor, music, and sharp social critique, it portrays Lebanon’s struggles under Ottoman rule while preserving a rich cultural heritage for new generations.
Mais El Rim – Assi Rahbani & Fayrouz (1975)
Mais el Reem follows Ziyoun (Fairuz), stranded in a village torn by a family feud that has separated two lovers, Nu‘man and Shahida. Her attempts at reconciliation fail until the village headman tricks both families into realizing their mistake. Peace is restored, the lovers reunite, and Ziyoun departs, remembered as the stranger who brought harmony.
Kifak Inta – Fayrouz & Ziad Rahbani (1991)
Written and composed by Ziad Rahbani, the album reflects the rare creative bond between mother and son. Ziad poured his soul into the melodies and lyrics, while Fairuz—his mother—gave them life with her unmatched voice. Together, they created a timeless masterpiece that listeners still return to, with unforgettable tracks like ‘Kifak Inta,’ ‘Fe Shi Am Beyseer,’ and ‘Andi Theqa Feek.’
Among these and many others are timeless classics gifted to us by the Rahbanis, with Fairuz—Assi’s partner in life and art at their heart. Together, they left an indelible mark on Arab music, pioneering genre-blending that drew from sounds across the world. Decades later, their influence has not faded; if anything, time has only deepened their acclaim and solidified their legacy.
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