The Music that Unites a Revolution: The Legacy of Abdel Basset al-Sarout and Ayman al-Masri
Abdel Basset al-Sarout, a key figure in the Syrian revolution, left an indelible mark on the movement through his music, which became anthems for protestors. Collaborating closely with lyricist Ayman al-Masri, their partnership sparked powerful songs, including the iconic “Janna, janna, janna.” After Sarout’s death in 2019, Masri continues to keep their legacy alive, now shifting towards themes of hope and rebuilding in his songwriting following the regime’s fall.
Abdel Basset al-Sarout’s face and voice are omnipresent throughout Syria, emblazoned on flags, clothing, and resonating through loudspeakers. Once a promising goalkeeper for the national youth soccer team, he emerged as a prominent protestor against the regime of Bashar al-Assad during the revolution. After the ousting of Assad in December, Sarout’s music, previously silenced, is now joyfully sung by children in the streets of Syria, although he was tragically killed in 2019 at the age of 27 in combat against regime forces.
Ayman al-Masri, 52, is the lyricist behind Sarout’s impactful music, though he remains largely unknown within Syria. Before the revolution erupted, Masri operated a car parts business and a cake factory. When protests began in 2011, he dedicated himself to organizing demonstrations while also writing songs for activists, with Sarout providing the voice for his poignant lyrics. Masri fondly describes Sarout as possessing an extraordinary charisma and genuine understanding of him.
Masri recounts their first meeting when Sarout sought refuge in his home after a protest. Recognizing the soccer star, Masri quickly formed a creative partnership with Sarout, who would later perform around 130 of his songs. Their most famous track, “Janna, janna, janna,” became an anthem for demonstrators, inspiring thousands despite the looming threats from regime forces. Masri recalls how the song encapsulated hope and resistance, resonating deeply among those who had to sing it in secret.
As the revolution progressed, the danger escalated for both Masri and Sarout. They were frequently pursued by regime forces, relying on the kindness of locals for shelter. In 2012, during a brutal siege of Homs, their city faced relentless bombardment. Despite this, both remained, though Masri’s lyrics evolved from uplifting to mournful as the conflict intensified, reflecting the grim realities on the ground.
Their collaboration continued amid growing tensions between them; Sarout took up arms while Masri remained a committed pacifist, utilizing his writing as a tool against oppression. In the end, Sarout felt compelled to fight, expressing a longing for rest amidst the unfolding chaos. Eventually, he would abandon Homs, controversially aligning himself with extremist factions before suffering fatal injuries during combat in 2019.
Masri now wanders through the ruins of Homs, acutely aware of Sarout’s lasting imprint on the city they once shared. He carries with him a notebook containing some of the lyrics that defined their partnership. The memories of their collaboration remain vivid, even as Masri mourns the absence of his singing partner. Today, as Syria transitions post-revolution, Masri finds renewed purpose, writing music focused on hope and the promise of rebuilding.
This article highlights the powerful partnership between Abdel Basset al-Sarout and Ayman al-Masri during the Syrian revolution. Sarout’s music provided a voice for the uprising, while Masri’s poignant lyrics captured the essence of the struggle. Despite the tragedy of Sarout’s untimely death, Masri continues to honor their shared legacy through songwriting, focusing on themes of hope and renewal in a post-revolutionary Syria. Their story encapsulates the intertwining of art and resistance in the face of oppressive regimes.
Original Source: www.wxxinews.org
