From the Archives: Fairuz Reflects on Bombing of Her Beirut Home

As Lebanon grapples with war, a 1989 interview with the legendary singer Fairuz resurfaced, in which reflects on the harrowing bombing of her Beirut home.

Syrian journalist Tawfiq Al-Hallak interviewed the singer on a balcony at the Marriott Mena House Hotel in Egypt, which overlooks the Pyramids of Giza. Here are some highlights of the hour-long exclusive interview.

On Being an Icon of Love in Times of War

While Fairuz was holding a concert in Cairo, Beirut was under the pressure of war and relentless bombings. When asked about the situation, Fairuz responded sadly: “Our lives in Beirut are very difficult amidst this war…It’s been 15 years, not just one or two days.”

Al-Hallak proceeds to ask her about whether her home in Beirut was bombed, and she confirms with disbelief, resignation, and a subtle smile.

“We couldn’t even properly enter the house. We would sit only in a corner of the house.”

— Fairuz in her 1989 Interview with Tawfiq Al-Hallak

Al-Hallak points out with surprise, “You’re smiling despite the disaster!” to which she responds: “There is no other choice.”

He then asked her, “Why is this happening in Lebanon?” She replied, “The evil is great… I mean, humans are responsible for these great things, and for destruction at the same time. There is evil and good in the world, but good always prevails in the end. We hope this war won’t last much longer.”

Fairuz’s Silent Struggle

Amidst turmoil and sectarian divide, people found solace in her voice. Even in shelters, her music resonated, offering comfort to the people.

In a separate interview with Al-Hallak, journalist Mariam discussed Fairuz’s silent struggle. “Fairuz couldn’t hide in the shelter like the others. She couldn’t face the world and show her fear, exhaustion, and terror…she is a legend. She is Lebanon. If Lebanon starts trembling in front of its people, it means Lebanon has fallen apart! She remained hidden. The important thing was that people wouldn’t see that Lebanon was shaking or wavering.”

Remembering Her Dear Friend, Salma

In a 2016 article, Al-Hallak revealed the behind-the-scenes of this interview, which left a lasting impact on him. The article spotlights Salma, Fairuz’s dear friend who stood by her and supported her during the war.

Salma told Al-Hallak that Fairuz’s home in East Beirut was subjected to random shelling from the warring factions, forcing her to move to her second home in West Beirut, which soon came under fire as well. Only one room remained habitable, where she lived with her son, Hadi, who has special needs and required constant care.

She also mentioned, “I would bring her water, gas, and whatever she needed, all while under threat.” Fairuz described Salma as her companion and soulmate during the interview.

You can watch the full interview here:

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