Abdel Basset al-Sarout, a renowned Syrian folk singer and revolutionary figure, became the voice of protests against the Assad regime. Ayman al-Masri, the lyricist behind Sarout’s songs, played a critical role in shaping the revolutionary music. Following Sarout’s death in 2019, Masri continues to honor his legacy while writing new songs that focus on hope and rebuilding.
In Syria, the folk singer Abdel Basset al-Sarout has become a revolutionary symbol since his death in 2019. Once a national youth soccer goalkeeper, Sarout emerged as a key figure during protests against the Assad regime, and his voice became a rallying cry for thousands. With the regime’s fall last December, children born during the revolution now publicly sing his songs, celebrating a newfound freedom.
Ayman al-Masri, the lesser-known lyricist behind Sarout’s anthems, emerged as a crucial figure in the movement. Formerly involved in selling car parts and managing a cake factory, Masri began writing songs in response to the 2011 uprising, quickly forming a creative partnership with Sarout. He wrote approximately 130 songs for Sarout, who resonated deeply with people due to his charisma and kindness.
Their iconic song, “Janna, janna, janna”—which translates to “Heaven, Heaven, Heaven”—became synonymous with the uprising. Its lyrics, expressing love for the homeland, energized countless protests, despite the extreme danger. As the conflict intensified, Masri and Sarout faced constant threats, with regime forces targeting them relentlessly.
During the siege of Homs, where they remained despite escalating violence, Masri’s lyrics became more somber reflecting grim realities. As food shortages and civilian casualties increased, heartfelt songs were composed in memoriam of friends lost. The two navigated through danger, relying on underground pathways to convey new lyrics to each other, even as their ideological paths began to diverge.
Sarout began advocating for armed resistance, diverging from Masri’s pacifist beliefs. Their ultimate paths led to Sarout’s departure from Homs as the fight for survival intensified. Tragically, he was killed in 2019, leaving Masri as the sole steward of their musical legacy, wandering the ruins of Homs where memories of Sarout linger.
Masri continues to write, now focusing on themes of hope and rebuilding since the fall of the regime. He reflects on their time together with fondness, stating that Sarout’s spirit continues to influence many, particularly through the eyes and voices of children who learned his songs in the shadows.
Sarout’s legacy as a voice of the revolution endures in the streets of Syria, where he remains a symbol of resilience and hope among the ruins.
The story of Abdel Basset al-Sarout and Ayman al-Masri encapsulates the profound connection between music and revolution. Sarout’s rise as a prominent voice against oppression, complemented by Masri’s poignant lyrics, highlights the transformative power of art in times of despair. As the aftermath of the regime’s fall continues to shape Syrian society, the legacies of both are enduring testaments to resilience, peace, and hope in rebuilding a fractured nation.
Original Source: www.wxxinews.org
