The Legacy of Abdel Basset al-Sarout and Ayman al-Masri: Music of the Syrian Revolution
Abdel Basset al-Sarout, a pivotal revolutionary figure in Syria, became renowned for his songs against the Assad regime. Ayman al-Masri, the lyricist behind Sarout’s music, contributed significantly to the protest movement but remained largely unknown. Despite the duo facing extreme danger, their partnership yielded powerful anthems. Following Sarout’s tragic death in 2019, Masri continues to honor their legacy through new songs that inspire hope and rebuilding in post-revolution Syria.
Abdel Basset al-Sarout has emerged as a prominent figure in Syria, recognized by his image on flags, clothing, and buses. His unrefined yet impactful voice is present in ringtones and loudspeaker announcements. Once a promising goalkeeper for the national youth soccer team, Sarout became a key protest figure opposing the Assad regime at the age of 19. Following the ousting of Bashar al-Assad in December, Sarout’s songs resonate openly in Syria, celebrated by children who had learned them in secrecy. Tragically, Sarout was killed in 2019 at 27 during conflicts with government forces, leaving a legacy that’s deeply ingrained in the nation’s consciousness.
In an exploration of the revolutionary youth music scene, NPR uncovered Ayman al-Masri, the songwriter behind many of Sarout’s popular songs. While Masri remains lesser known within Syria, his contributions have proven invaluable. Formerly a car parts seller and cake factory owner, Masri became actively involved in organizing protests in 2011, writing lyrics to inspire activists. His partnership with Sarout blossomed when the singer sought refuge in Masri’s home after a protest, leading to the creation of over 130 pieces of music, with their shared anthem “Janna, janna, janna” becoming a rousing rallying cry for protesters.
Masri recalls, “Al-Sarout had a rare charisma and kindness. He understood me, and I him… sometimes just from a look in our eyes.” His poignant lyrics echoed the revolutionary fervor of Homs, one of the uprising’s primary battlegrounds. But as conflict escalated, both the tone of Masri’s writing and the danger surrounding them intensified. During the brutal siege of Homs in 2012, with immense civilian suffering, Masri’s lyrics became sorrowful, reflecting themes of martyrdom and loss.
Faced with increasing threats, Masri and Sarout’s collaboration continued against the backdrop of urban warfare. Their bond was challenged, with Masri advocating for peace through his words, while Sarout took up arms and gravitated towards a more militant approach as he witnessed the deaths of his loved ones. This divergence culminated when Sarout publicly endorsed ISIS, a decision that marked a significant shift in his journey. Tragically, Sarout’s life ended in 2019 after a combat injury, a loss felt deeply by those who admired him.
Masri, now a songwriter without his famous singer, wanders the remnants of Homs, recalling their shared history. He reflects on how Sarout’s presence is inherent to the city, stating, “There is no street here that we have not walked down together.” As he revisits their old neighborhood, children born after Sarout’s passing still celebrate his memory. Masri observes how the remnants of the singer’s life have created a legacy among the youth. Armed with a notebook of handwritten verses, Masri acknowledges the need for healing, and he has resumed writing songs that celebrate life and the possibility of rebuilding after destruction.
The legacy of Abdul Basset al-Sarout and Ayman al-Masri emphasizes the intertwined nature of music and resistance, highlighting the profound impact that their artistry had on the revolutionary movement in Syria. Amidst the devastation, hope persists through their shared creations, and the bond of friendship, dreams, and loss continues to resonate in a wounded yet resilient community.
The story of Abdel Basset al-Sarout and Ayman al-Masri exemplifies how art and music serve as powerful instruments of revolution and expression. Even amid profound loss and conflict, their collaboration transformed the emotional landscape of protest, giving voice to the hopes and struggles of the Syrian people. As Masri continues to write in a newly liberated Syria, the enduring spirit of their work lives on, symbolizing resilience and a commitment to rebuilding the future.
Original Source: www.wxxinews.org
