The Revolutionary Music of Abdel Basset al-Sarout and Ayman al-Masri

This article explores the legacy of Abdel Basset al-Sarout, a revolutionary singer in Syria whose music inspired protests against the Assad regime. Following his death in 2019, the article highlights Ayman al-Masri, the lyricist behind Sarout’s songs, emphasizing their collaborative journey and the dramatic shifts in their relationship amid conflict. After the regime’s fall, Masri is re-engaging with songwriting, focusing on themes of hope and rebuilding.

Abdel Basset al-Sarout, a prominent figure in the Syrian uprising, remains an iconic symbol in Syria. Formerly a goalkeeper for the national youth soccer team, he gained notoriety as a leading protester against Bashar al-Assad’s regime. Following the recent ousting of Assad, al-Sarout’s music, which resonates widely, is now being sung publicly. Sadly, he was killed in 2019 at the age of 27 during a conflict with government forces, leaving behind a profound impact.

In Homs, NPR uncovered Ayman al-Masri, a largely unknown but vital lyricist behind Sarout’s songs. Prior to the revolution, Masri engaged in the car parts industry and bakery ownership. However, with the onset of protests in 2011, he became heavily involved in organizing demonstrations and began creating verses that reflected the spirit of resistance.

The pivotal moment came when Sarout sought refuge in Masri’s home while escaping from government soldiers. Recognizing him as the celebrated goalkeeper, Masri formed a creative bond with Sarout, composing approximately 130 songs focusing on hope and defiance. Their anthem, “Janna, janna, janna,” became a rallying cry during protests, exemplifying their spirit of resistance.

As conflict escalated, so did the threats against them. The duo navigated a precarious existence as regime forces targeted opposition figures. Despite the siege of Homs that resulted in severe devastation, both men chose to remain, emerging from the turmoil with lyrics that shifted in tone from celebratory to somber, reflecting the grim reality around them.

The partnership between Sarout and Masri evolved as interruptions in their paths surfaced. Masri remained a pacifist, believing in the power of lyrics, whereas Sarout took up arms to fight for liberation. Their differing perceptions of the struggle marked a gradual rift in their relationship.

Ultimately, Sarout’s journey led him to embrace radical factions while Masri maintained his commitment to peaceful resistance. Sarout’s tragic death in 2019 during a firefight with government forces reverberated deeply among his followers and friends, revealing the personal losses endured amid the broader conflict.

After Sarout’s passing, Masri grapples with the absence of his collaborator, walking through the remnants of Homs. He carries with him a notebook filled with their early song lyrics, serving as a testament to their shared experiences. Amidst the devastation, the spirit of Sarout and the revolutionary message endure, and Masri is now focused on writing anew, with themes of hope and reconstruction emerging in his post-regime compositions.

Abdel Basset al-Sarout’s legacy as a revolutionary figure lives on through his music and the dedication of lyricist Ayman al-Masri. As the Syrian uprising unfolded, Sarout’s songs became anthems of resistance, highlighting the struggles of a nation. Despite the tragic loss of Sarout, Masri continues to honor their partnership and the profound impact of their work, adapting his songwriting to embrace themes of hope and renewal in the wake of conflict. The resilience of their spirits persists within the streets of Homs and the hearts of its residents.

Original Source: www.wxxinews.org