Abdel Basset al-Sarout and Ayman al-Masri are pivotal figures in Syria’s revolutionary music scene. Sarout, a symbol of protest against the Assad regime, used his voice to empower the uprising. After his death, Masri, the lyricist behind al-Sarout’s songs, continues to inspire through new work focused on hope and rebuilding in a post-revolutionary landscape.
In the wake of revolution in Syria, Abdel Basset al-Sarout emerged as an influential figure, his face adorning flags and his voice reverberating through various mediums, from cell phone ringtones to public gatherings. Once a goalkeeper for the national youth soccer team, Sarout became a symbol of the protest movement against Bashar al-Assad’s regime. Despite his tragic death in battle in 2019 at the young age of 27, his songs continue to inspire a new generation of Syrians.
One of the pivotal contributors to Sarout’s musical legacy is Ayman al-Masri, a 52-year-old lyricist whose work underscored the protests that erupted in 2011. Before the turmoil, Masri sold car parts and owned a cake factory. The onset of revolution compelled him to shift his focus toward organizing protests and writing lyrics that captured the spirit of dissent. His creative partnership with Sarout would see the production of around 130 songs for the revolutionary cause.
Masri reminisced about their first meeting, recalling how Sarout stumbled into his home while fleeing government security forces. Recognizing the famed goalkeeper, Masri offered refuge, marking the beginning of their artistic collaboration. The song “Janna, janna, janna,” a powerful protest anthem, is emblematic of their shared efforts, resonating deeply with demonstrators throughout the country.
As the regime’s crackdown intensified, Masri and Sarout faced increasing dangers. The regime’s brutal assaults on Homs prompted them to take refuge in different homes, relying on the support of vigilant citizens. The hardships in Homs were palpable, with many civilians fleeing as the city endured extensive bombardment, leaving behind a landscape that would change forever. Masri’s lyrics evolved, reflecting this grim reality as tragedy unfolded around them.
The bond between Masri and Sarout, however, began to fray as their paths diverged. Masri leaned toward pacifism, believing in the power of words, while Sarout, affected by personal losses, turned to armed resistance. This shift culminated in Sarout’s controversial association with ISIS before he was forced to leave Homs.
Tragically, Sarout died from injuries sustained during armed conflict in 2019, leaving a void in both Masri’s life and the hearts of many Syrians. Despite the loss, Masri recalls the moments they shared, his memories entwined with Sarout’s legacy. As he revisits the remnants of their past in Homs, memories flood back, affirming that their journey has left an indelible mark on Syria’s revolutionary history.
Today, whilst confronting the ruins, Masri has resumed writing, shifting his focus toward themes of hope and rebuilding in a post-Assad era. He clutches a notebook containing the genesis of their musical narrative, cherishing the impact they had on a nation seeking freedom and identity. Masri’s resolve to continue creating in honor of Sarout signifies a new chapter in Syrian music, one that looks toward recovery and a future filled with promise.
Abdel Basset al-Sarout and Ayman al-Masri encapsulate the spirit of the Syrian revolution through their music, symbolizing resilience and hope amidst turbulence. Sarout’s legacy, deeply intertwined with Masri’s lyrics, continues to inspire a new generation even after their tragic splits. Now, as Syria begins to heal post-revolution, Masri’s commitment to uplifting themes in his songwriting heralds a transformative era for the country that seeks to reclaim its identity and future.
Original Source: www.wxxinews.org
