The Arab cultural scene is mourning the loss of Lebanese iconic musician Elias Rahbani, who passed away on Monday at the age of 83.

The Antelias-born artist, who studied at the Lebanese Academy and National Conservatory in mid the 50s, had a long and flourishing career, proving his mastery in various music forms and styles.

The younger brother of the legendary music duo Assi and Mansour Rahbani, who inspired the success of Lebanon icon Fairouz, has left a treasured legacy with hundreds of remarkable works.

A composer, producer, conductor, songwriter and poet, Elias Rahbani created many Arabic classic songs for many of the most acclaimed and popular Lebanese singers, like Sabah, Wadih Al-Safi, and Majida Al-Roumi. For Fairouz, he composed hits like Tayr El-Werwar, Kan Al-Zaman, Ya Nasiny, Sahar Al-Layaly, and many others.

He wrote music for around 25 films, like My Blood, My Tears, and My Smile; as well as many notable works for theater, including The Devil's Hill Ballet, the Operetta Ayam Saif (Summer Days), Wadi Shamsine, and Safra Al-Ahlam.

In addition to tens of Radio and TV shows — and many albums from various genres — among Elias Rahbani’s remarkable works are 10 classical pieces for piano, and Arabic nursery rhymes and songs for kids.

While many mega celebrities and cultural personas are expressing their condolences and sadness, some news outfits have suggested that the legendary musician may have suffered from COVID-19, but these reports haven't been confirmed.

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