Ziad Rahbani death sent shockwaves across Lebanon and the Arab world today, as news broke that the legendary composer, playwright, and cultural provocateur passed away at age 69. The son of iconic singer Fairuz, Rahbani’s passing was confirmed on July 26, 2025, by Lebanon’s state-run National News Agency, sparking an outpouring of tributes both online and offline.
The Latest on Ziad Rahbani’s Passing
Rahbani died after a prolonged battle with illness. Specific details remain private, but his close circle and government officials have validated the news. Lebanese President Joseph Aoun called Rahbani’s death a “national tragedy,” describing him as more than an artist—a comprehensive intellectual and cultural phenomenon who boldly voiced the struggles of the marginalized.
Tributes have poured in from luminaries throughout the Arab world. From musicians to politicians and everyday fans, social media was flooded with messages of gratitude and remembrance, especially on platforms like Instagram and X. Many highlighted Rahbani’s fearless satire and the way his work intertwined deeply with Lebanon’s social and political fabric.
Key Points Summary
- Ziad Rahbani died on July 26, 2025, at age 69 after an illness.
- Official confirmation came from Lebanon’s National News Agency.
- He was the eldest son of Fairuz and composer Assi Rahbani.
- He was celebrated for merging jazz, classical Arabic, and folk music with sharp political satire.
- Tributes pouring in mark him as a cultural and intellectual giant.
A Life Intertwined with Art, Resistance, and Social Commentary
Born January 1, 1956, in Antelias, Lebanon, Ziad Rahbani’s path was shaped by his parents’ legacy but defined by his own bold innovations and political candor. By age 17, he had already composed “Sa’alouni El Nass” for his mother during his father’s illness—a song that quickly became a classic.
Throughout the 1970s and beyond, Rahbani revolutionized Lebanese theater and music. His plays—such as “Bennesbeh La Bukra Chou?” and “Nazl El Sourour”—became touchstones for a generation grappling with war and disillusionment. He dared to mock political elites and address social injustices in a region where such candor could prove risky.
Rahbani’s artistic contributions also profoundly shaped Fairuz’s later work, composing timeless hits like “Kifak Inta” and “Bala Wala Shi.” His arrangements blended Western rhythms with Lebanese folk, creating a modern, poignant sound that resonated across generations.
Table: Ziad Rahbani’s Lasting Legacy
Tributes and the Mood in Lebanon
Grieving fans gathered in Beirut and posted their condolences online using heartfelt messages and creative tributes. Artists shared memories of working with Rahbani, while politicians praised his unshakable commitment to social justice.
Lebanon’s Prime Minister Nawaf Salam hailed Rahbani as “an exceptional creative artist—a bold voice for justice and dignity.” Across every medium, the consistent message was clear: Rahbani’s influence is irreplaceable, and his passing leaves a void in Lebanese and Arab culture.
A Final Farewell
Ziad Rahbani’s death marks the end of an era not only for Lebanon but for the entire Arab artistic and political landscape. As the world mourns, his influence resonates in the music, theater, and uncompromising honesty he brought to every work. His voice may be silenced, but his legacy will endure through the countless artists he inspired and fans who found hope in his art.
Did Ziad Rahbani’s music or plays touch your life? Share your memories or reflections in the comments below, and join others in honoring a transformative cultural force.