Ziad Rahbani Documentary to Screen at Cairo Jazz Festival 2025

A special screening of “Ziad Rahbani… After All These Years” will take place at the 2025 Cairo Jazz Festival, offering fans a rare glimpse into the legendary artist’s creative world.

Directed by journalist Jad Ghosn, the documentary follows Rahbani through private rehearsals, studio sessions, and live performances since his return to the stage last year. It paints an intimate portrait of his artistic journey, tracing the milestones and influences that have defined his work from the early 1970s until today.

The documentary highlights both Rahbani’s celebrated compositions and his lesser-known pieces, reflecting the evolution of his music and his enduring political voice.

About the Cairo Jazz Festival

Founded in 2009 by Egyptian pianist and composer Amr Salah, the Cairo Jazz Festival has grown into one of the region's premier music events. Its mission is to promote jazz as a cultural bridge, fostering international collaboration and appreciation for the genre.

The festival has featured artists from around the world, blending traditional jazz with regional sounds and serving as a platform for cultural exchange.

This year's festival promises to continue that tradition, celebrating the rich tapestry of global jazz while honoring the legacy of artists like Ziad Rahbani who have contributed to the genre's evolution in the Arab world.

Ziad's Oriental Jazz

Ziad Rahbani is often credited with pioneering "Oriental jazz," a fusion of traditional Arabic music with jazz, funk, and other Western genres. His innovative approach began in the late 1970s and was exemplified in his 1978 album Abu Ali, which blended Arabic quarter tones with jazz improvisation.

Rahbani's work with his mother, the legendary singer Fairuz, further pushed the boundaries of Arabic music. Albums like Wahdon (1979) and Maarifti Feek (1987) incorporated jazz elements, bringing a new depth to Fairuz's sound and introducing jazz to a broader Arab audience.

Beyond his musical innovations, Rahbani's politically charged lyrics and satirical plays addressed social issues and resonated with audiences across the Arab world. His ability to blend music with activism made him a voice for change and a symbol of artistic integrity.

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