The Musical Legacy of Abdel Basset al-Sarout: A Voice of Revolution
The article explores the legacy of Abdel Basset al-Sarout, a prominent figure in the Syrian revolution, and Ayman al-Masri, the lyricist behind many of Sarout’s songs. As their partnership grew amidst the uprising against Assad, they created powerful anthems, despite facing immense danger. Sarout’s tragic death in 2019 leaves behind a rich musical legacy that continues to inspire hope among Syrians today. Masri’s writing evolves in a post-regime Syria, reflecting themes of life and renewal.
HOMS, Syria — The face of Abdel Basset al-Sarout, a former national youth soccer player turned prominent revolutionary figure, is omnipresent in Syria. His image now appears on flags, garments, and various public shows, while his unrefined yet powerful voice resonates through mobile ringtones and speakers. Sarout’s activism against the Assad regime escalated as he became a leading protester at just 19 years old. Following the ousting of President Bashar al-Assad, Sarout’s music is finally celebrated publicly, with children joyfully singing his songs that they once memorized discreetly. Unfortunately, Sarout was killed in 2019 at the age of 27 in conflict with governmental forces.
In Homs, NPR learned of Ayman al-Masri, the 52-year-old lyricist behind many of Sarout’s songs, despite remaining largely unknown. Before the revolution erupted in 2011, Masri was a car parts dealer and cake factory owner. Engaging in organizing demonstrations, he combined his passion for music with activism, becoming a prolific songwriter for local musicians, with Sarout as his most distinguished collaborator. “He understood me, and I him,” Masri reflected, reminiscing about their creative partnership that began when Sarout sought refuge in Masri’s home after fleeing a protest.
Masri crafted approximately 130 songs for Sarout, with their anthem “Janna, janna, janna” stirring fervor among protesters throughout Homs. The lyrics resonate deeply with the revolution: “Heaven is our homeland. Oh, our beloved homeland, and its gracious soil.” Children like Marwan Jnani learned this song in secrecy, fearing for their safety. Masri recalls those moments as the “pinnacle of happiness, the sweetest of my life.”
As their notoriety grew, so did the threats to their lives, leading to constant relocations within Homs. The siege of Homs, initiated by Assad’s forces in 2012, resulted in substantial civilian displacement and severe humanitarian crisis. Despite atrocities, both Sarout and Masri remained, although Masri’s once-joyful lyrics morphed into reflections of despair as they faced starvation and loss. One poignant song he penned was a tribute to his mother, mourning the many lost. The two navigated the war-torn city through sewage tunnels to deliver new lyrics, their paths diverging as Sarout increasingly embraced armed struggle, while Masri remained resolute in pacifism.
The fallout led Sarout to abandon Homs and ally with extremist groups under duress. His journey, marred by sorrow as multiple family members perished in the conflict, ultimately concluded in 2019 when he succumbed to injuries sustained in battle. His nephew recalled his attitude, saying, “He was going out, and I told him, be careful; there is a drone in the sky.” Despite receiving assistance for medical treatment in Turkey, Sarout died the next day, leaving a profound void.
Masri now roams the desolate streets of Homs, haunted by memories of their collaboration and the impact of their shared experiences. He expresses the pervasive essence of Sarout in their surroundings, stating, “There is no street here that we have not walked down together.” Although the physical remnants of Sarout’s former home lie in ruins, the singer’s legacy persists, echoed by children unacquainted with him yet aware of his significance. Masri recalls their initial meetings, his emotions flooding back as he clutches a worn notebook containing their songs written long ago. With the regime’s defeat, Masri looks toward the future, crafting new anthems of hope and renewal, proving that even amidst despair, there remains a longing for life and resilience.
The poignant tale of Abdel Basset al-Sarout and Ayman al-Masri illustrates the profound impact music can have in times of revolution. Their partnership yielded powerful anthems that inspired hope and unity among Syrian protesters. Despite Sarout’s untimely demise, his legacy lives on as a symbol of resistance, while Masri seeks to rebuild through music that now reflects a brighter future. Their story encapsulates the enduring spirit of a nation that continues to yearn for peace and healing following years of adversity.
Original Source: www.wxxinews.org
