Fairuz

Fairuz was born Nouhad Haddad in 1935. She grew up with the traditional music of Lebanon around her, and her singing eventually caught the attention of the Rahbani brothers, Assi and Mansour. They began working together in the 1950s, with the brothers writing songs that suited her voice. Some of the material from this period includes 'Shadi' and 'Min 'Iz Innawm Btisri'ni'.

Her recordings from those years, like 'Ya Tair' and 'A'tini Al-nay', became staples in Lebanese homes. The songs were often built around simple, memorable melodies. She sang in Arabic, and her delivery had a direct, unadorned quality that felt familiar even when the arrangements were elaborate.

Fairuz performed internationally, but the core of her work remained connected to the songwriting of the Rahbanis and the musical traditions she absorbed early on. Tracks such as 'Fi Ahwi 'al Mafra'' demonstrate that straightforward, melodic approach. Her voice, clear and steady, carried the songs without much theatrical flourish.