Lebanon’s music scene has long been a powerhouse in the Arab world, producing artists who’ve left a lasting mark on the industry.
Many music lovers struggle to grasp Lebanese musical talent’s depth and breadth fully.
This article will introduce you to 47 influential Lebanese vocalists who’ve shaped the musical landscape.
We’ll explore their diverse styles, from traditional Arabic music to contemporary pop, and highlight their key contributions to the industry.
You’ll discover legendary artists and rising stars, learning about their major albums, achievements, and impact on Lebanese and global music scenes.
Get ready for a journey through Lebanon’s rich musical heritage, showcasing the voices that have put this country on the world stage.
Top Influential Lebanese Singers
1. Fairuz
Fairuz is considered a cultural icon, not only in Lebanon but throughout the Arab world. With her distinctive voice and collaborations with the Rahbani brothers, she revolutionized Arabic music.
Her songs are widely regarded as timeless and are a reflection of Lebanon’s rich culture.
- Birth Date: November 21, 1934
- Major Albums: “Bhebbak Ya Lebnan”, “Al Bosta”, “Kifak Inta”
- Major Achievements: Revered as the “Voice of Lebanon”, received international acclaim and various awards for cultural contributions.
2. Wadih El Safi
Wadih El Safi was a Lebanese musical legend known for his deep voice and contributions to the preservation of Lebanese folk music.
His songs often reflect themes of love, homeland, and tradition, making him a symbol of Lebanese cultural heritage.
- Birth Date: November 1, 1921
- Major Albums: “Jana El Hawa”, “Lebanon Ya Qataati Mn Alf Leil”, “Habbaytak Ta Nseet El Noum”
- Major Achievements: Popularized Lebanese folk music, awarded the National Order of the Cedar, and left an enduring legacy in Arabic music.
3. Majida El Roumi
Majida El Roumi is a renowned Lebanese soprano and one of the most esteemed classical singers in the Arab world.
Her songs, often imbued with deep emotional and political messages, have captivated audiences both locally and internationally.
- Birth Date: December 13, 1956
- Major Albums: “Kalimat”, “Ibhath Anni”, “Rasael”
- Major Achievements: Best-selling female artist in the Arab world, UN Goodwill Ambassador, and performed in prestigious international venues.
4. Nancy Ajram
Nancy Ajram is a globally renowned Lebanese pop star known for her chart-topping hits and energetic performances.
With a youthful, modern sound, she has been at the forefront of the Arab pop scene for more than two decades.
- Birth Date: May 16, 1983
- Major Albums: “Ya Salam”, “Ah W Noss”, “Nancy 7”
- Major Achievements: Highest-selling Middle Eastern artist, multiple World Music Awards, UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador.
5. Sabah
Sabah, known for her bold and flamboyant persona, was one of the most iconic figures in Lebanese and Egyptian music and cinema.
She had a career spanning more than six decades, and her legacy lives on in both countries.
- Birth Date: November 10, 1927 – Passed away on November 26, 2014
- Major Albums: “Ala Kefak”, “Zayy El Assal”, “Yana Yana”
- Major Achievements: Over 50 films and 3,000 songs, received numerous awards, and was known for her pioneering role in both Lebanese and Egyptian entertainment.
6. Elissa
Elissa is one of the most successful female artists in the Arab world.
Known for her emotional depth and powerful voice, she has released numerous hits that resonate with a broad audience, blending traditional and contemporary styles.
- Birth Date: October 27, 1972
- Major Albums: “Ayshalak”, “Bastanak”, “Asaad Wahda”
- Major Achievements: Won multiple World Music Awards, considered one of the highest-selling female artists in the Arab world.
7. Najwa Karam
Najwa Karam is one of the most successful singers in the Middle East, known for her powerful voice and dedication to traditional Lebanese music.
Her music often celebrates Lebanese culture and is popular across the Arab world.
- Birth Date: February 26, 1966
- Major Albums: “Maghroumeh”, “Rouh Rouhi”, “Hayda Haki”
- Major Achievements: One of the highest-selling Arabic artists, known as the “Sun of Lebanese Song”, judge on several talent shows.
8. Wael Kfoury
Wael Kfoury is a Lebanese pop singer widely known for his romantic songs and captivating voice.
His music has consistently topped charts across the Middle East, making him one of the most beloved singers of his generation.
- Birth Date: September 15, 1974
- Major Albums: “W”, “Wael 2012”, “Khatta Fiyyi”
- Major Achievements: Regarded as one of the top romantic singers in Arabic music, has won numerous music awards.
9. Maya Diab
Maya Diab is a Lebanese singer, actress, and TV personality who gained fame for her bold, eclectic style and energetic performances.
She is known for constantly pushing boundaries in both music and fashion.
- Birth Date: November 10, 1980
- Major Albums: “Mon Cheri”, “Gatifin”
- Major Achievements: Known for her groundbreaking style in pop music and fashion, and has gained a strong international following.
10. Melhem Barakat
Melhem Barakat was a prominent Lebanese composer, singer, and actor.
Known for his operatic voice and theatrical performances, he was a key figure in Lebanese music, blending modern elements with traditional Arabic music.
- Birth Date: August 15, 1945 – Passed away on October 28, 2016
- Major Albums: “Habibi Inta”, “Amar”, “Allayli Allayli”
- Major Achievements: Known for his contributions to Arabic musical theatre, received numerous awards, and widely regarded for his emotional and powerful voice.
11. Fadel Shaker
Fadel Shaker is a Lebanese singer known for his romantic ballads.
His heartfelt songs and distinct voice have earned him widespread recognition in the Arab world, making him a staple in Arabic pop music.
- Birth Date: April 1, 1969
- Major Albums: “Hobak Khayal”, “Baya’a El Zohour”, “Law Ala Albi”
- Major Achievements: Won multiple awards for his romantic songs, one of the most well-known Arabic ballad singers.
12. Marwan Khoury
Marwan Khoury is a Lebanese singer, songwriter, and music producer known for his romantic and poetic lyrics.
He has not only established himself as a prominent singer but also composed for some of the biggest names in the Arab music industry.
- Birth Date: February 3, 1968
- Major Albums: “Kil Al Asayed”, “Ana Wil Leil”, “Rajain”
- Major Achievements: Won multiple music awards, composed for top Arab artists, and regarded as one of the finest contemporary songwriters in Lebanon.
13. Brigitte Yaghi
Brigitte Yaghi is a Lebanese singer who rose to fame after participating in Star Academy, a popular Arabic music competition.
Her powerful voice and versatility have made her a standout in the Lebanese music scene.
- Birth Date: November 19, 1987
- Major Albums: “Albani W Aja”
- Major Achievements: Gained fame from Star Academy, known for her vocal range and ability to perform in multiple genres.
14. Nawal Al Zoghbi
Nawal Al Zoghbi is a Lebanese pop singer with a career spanning more than three decades.
Known for her glamorous style and catchy hits, she has earned her place as one of the most popular Arab pop stars.
- Birth Date: June 29, 1972
- Major Albums: “Mandam Aleik”, “Tul Omri”, “Aghla El Habayeb”
- Major Achievements: One of the highest-selling Arabic female artists, won multiple awards across the Middle East.
15. Carole Samaha
Carole Samaha is a Lebanese singer, actress, and producer who has made a significant impact on both the music and theatre industries in the Arab world.
Her powerful voice and charismatic performances have garnered her widespread acclaim.
- Birth Date: July 25, 1972
- Major Albums: “Helm,” “Ana Horra,” “Zekrayati”
- Major Achievements: Won multiple Murex d’Or awards, recognized for her work in both music and theatre, and was acclaimed for her powerful vocal performances.
16. Assi El Hallani
Assi El Hallani is a Lebanese singer and composer known for his contributions to Arabic folk music.
He has been a major figure in the Lebanese music scene since the 1990s and is loved for his deep voice and energetic performances.
- Birth Date: November 28, 1970
- Major Albums: “Sa’alouni,” “Nassam Alayna,” “Kayed Ozzalak”
- Major Achievements: Popular for his folk songs, he received numerous awards and was known for his strong stage presence.
17. Maher Zain
Maher Zain is a Swedish-Lebanese singer, songwriter, and music producer known for his spiritually uplifting songs.
His music often carries themes of faith, love, and devotion, and he has gained international acclaim for his work in the nasheed genre.
- Birth Date: July 16, 1981
- Major Albums: “Thank You Allah”, “Forgive Me”, “One”
- Major Achievements: Known for his Islamic-inspired music, gained international fame with millions of followers across the globe, and performed in numerous countries.
18. Samira Tewfik
Samira Tewfik is a Lebanese singer who became famous for her Bedouin-style songs, a genre that resonated deeply with the Arab audience.
She brought traditional Bedouin music to the mainstream, becoming a household name in the 1960s and 1970s.
- Birth Date: 1945
- Major Albums: “Ya Helo Sabah”, “Lamma Bada Yatathanna”
- Major Achievements: Popularized Bedouin music in Lebanon and the Arab world, widely regarded as a pioneer of this traditional genre.
19. Rola Saad
Rola Saad is a Lebanese singer and actress known for her energetic and glamorous performances.
She gained popularity with her renditions of classic Arabic songs, and her modern take on Arabic pop music has helped her build a solid fan base.
- Birth Date: August 25, 1978
- Major Albums: “Kol El Gharam”
- Major Achievements: Gained fame for her modern interpretations of classic songs, established herself as a pop star in the Arab world.
20. Amal Hijazi
Amal Hijazi is a Lebanese pop star who gained popularity in the early 2000s with her soft voice and romantic ballads.
Her unique sound and catchy melodies have made her one of the most prominent figures in modern Arabic pop music.
- Birth Date: February 20, 1977
- Major Albums: “Zaman”, “Baya’a El Ward”, “Keef El Amar”
- Major Achievements: One of the most successful Arabic pop artists of the 2000s, known for blending traditional Arabic music with contemporary pop.
21. Maya Nasri
Maya Nasri is a Lebanese singer and actress known for her soft voice and her transition into acting.
She gained fame with her pop music career but later established herself in Lebanese television dramas.
- Birth Date: August 14, 1976
- Major Albums: “Akher Hawa”, “Raje’lak”
- Major Achievements: Gained fame as both a singer and actress, known for her versatile career in music and television.
22. Dana Halabi
Dana Halabi is a Lebanese pop singer and actress known for her bold and vibrant performances.
She rose to fame with her catchy tunes and has since transitioned into acting, becoming a recognizable figure in Lebanese entertainment.
- Birth Date: January 18, 1987
- Major Albums: “Inta Meen”
- Major Achievements: Gained fame for her unique pop style and energetic performances, became a recognized figure in Lebanese television.
23. Walid Toufic
Walid Toufic is a veteran Lebanese singer and actor who has had a successful career spanning decades.
He is well-known for his romantic songs and has earned a significant following throughout the Arab world.
- Birth Date: April 8, 1954
- Major Albums: “Ghazal”, “Ana Bitgoul Alayeh”, “Allah Allah Ya Sidi”
- Major Achievements: Known for his romantic ballads, has had a long and successful career in both music and acting.
24. Fadwa Obeid
Fadwa Obeid was a Lebanese singer known for her powerful voice and classical Arabic music renditions.
Her performances of traditional songs were widely appreciated, and she made a significant impact on preserving classical Arabic music.
- Birth Date: 1935 – Passed away on September 2, 2022
- Major Albums: N/A
- Major Achievements: Revered for her classical renditions, played a significant role in preserving traditional Arabic music.
25. Wael Jassar
Wael Jassar is a Lebanese singer famous for his romantic songs and emotional voice.
He has established himself as one of the leading figures in Arabic pop music, consistently delivering hits that resonate with a wide audience.
- Birth Date: November 22, 1972
- Major Albums: “Mesheet Khalas”, “Amar W Sahar”, “Allah Yekhdon”
- Major Achievements: One of the leading romantic ballad singers in the Arab world, won multiple awards for his contributions to pop music.
26. Amar
Amar is a Lebanese pop singer known for her modern and bold approach to Arabic music.
Her music often incorporates a blend of contemporary beats and traditional influences, making her a popular figure in the Arab pop scene.
- Birth Date: December 27, 1986
- Major Albums: “Nar”
- Major Achievements: Known for her bold and contemporary style, gained popularity for blending traditional and modern Arabic music elements.
27. Layal Abboud
Layal Abboud is a Lebanese singer who has gained recognition for her ability to merge traditional Lebanese music with contemporary pop sounds.
She is known for her energetic performances and her influence on modern Lebanese folk music.
- Birth Date: May 15, 1982
- Major Albums: “Ma Bakhaf Minnak”, “Fi Shouq”
- Major Achievements: Successfully blended traditional and contemporary music styles, known for her dynamic and captivating performances in the Lebanese music scene.
28. Yara
Yara is a Lebanese pop singer known for her soft and melodic voice, which has made her a favorite in the Arabic music scene.
She is recognized for her romantic ballads and modern pop hits that resonate with a wide audience across the Middle East.
- Birth Date: June 1, 1983
- Major Albums: “Twassa Feyi”, “Enta Menni”, “La’ale’ Khalijiya”
- Major Achievements: One of the most successful contemporary pop singers in the Arab world, known for her smooth voice and romantic songs.
29. Aline Lahoud
Aline Lahoud is a Lebanese singer and actress known for her versatility in performing various music genres, including pop, traditional Arabic music, and French chansons.
Her multifaceted talent has allowed her to shine in multiple areas of the entertainment industry.
- Birth Date: March 2, 1986
- Major Albums: N/A
- Major Achievements: Represented Lebanon in international music competitions, known for her ability to perform across different musical genres, including Arabic and French songs.
30. Cyrine Abdelnour
Cyrine Abdelnour is a well-known Lebanese actress and pop singer, recognized for her beauty, charisma, and captivating voice.
Alongside her music career, she has starred in numerous popular Arabic TV shows and films.
- Birth Date: February 21, 1977
- Major Albums: “Leila Min El Layali”, “Aalik Ayouni”
- Major Achievements: One of the most popular pop stars and actresses in the Arab world, known for her hit songs and successful acting career.
31. Diana Haddad
Diana Haddad is a Lebanese singer who has found great success in both Lebanese and Khaleeji (Gulf Arabic) music.
Her versatility in performing different styles of Arabic music has garnered her a broad fan base throughout the Middle East.
- Birth Date: October 1, 1976
- Major Albums: “Ammanih”, “Awel Marrah”, “Bent Osol”
- Major Achievements: Known for blending Lebanese and Khaleeji music, one of the top-selling female artists in the Arab world.
32. Abeer Nehme
Abeer Nehme is a Lebanese singer known for her expertise in performing traditional Arabic maqam music.
She is also a composer and has been praised for her powerful voice and ability to preserve the classical music traditions of the Arab world.
- Birth Date: May 19, 1980
- Major Albums: N/A
- Major Achievements: Recognized as one of the foremost performers of Arabic maqam music, known for preserving classical music traditions while maintaining a modern appeal.
33. Pascale Machaalani
Pascale Machaalani is a Lebanese pop and folk singer who has made a lasting impression in the Arabic music world.
Her strong vocal performances and catchy songs have kept her relevant over the years, making her one of Lebanon’s prominent singers.
- Birth Date: March 27, 1969
- Major Albums: “Nour El Shams”, “Am Behlamak”, “Aala Baly”
- Major Achievements: Known for her powerful voice and long-lasting career in Arabic pop and folk music, one of the top-selling artists in the Middle East.
34. Hiba Tawaji
Hiba Tawaji is a Lebanese soprano who has gained international recognition for blending opera with Arabic music.
Her unique voice and ability to perform in different musical genres have made her a standout artist in the Arab world.
- Birth Date: December 10, 1987
- Major Albums: “La Bidayi Wala Nihayi”, “Ya Habibi”
- Major Achievements: Known for her exceptional soprano voice and her ability to merge Arabic and Western classical music, has performed in international opera houses.
35. May Hariri
May Hariri is a Lebanese pop singer known for her glamorous style and catchy pop songs.
She has also made a name for herself as a television personality, blending her musical career with appearances in Lebanese media.
- Birth Date: December 24, 1972
- Major Albums: “Monawat”, “Habibi Inta”
- Major Achievements: Known for her glamorous persona and pop hits, she has been a prominent figure in Lebanese entertainment for years.
36. Dolly Shahine
Dolly Shahine is a Lebanese pop singer, actress, and model known for her bold and daring performances.
She has appeared in various films and music videos, making her a versatile and prominent figure in the Lebanese entertainment industry.
- Birth Date: February 2, 1980
- Major Albums: “Wala Kol El Banat”
- Major Achievements: Known for her bold performances in music and film, has gained recognition as both a singer and actress in the Arab world.
37. Nicole Saba
Nicole Saba is a Lebanese singer and actress who gained fame as part of the pop group The 4 Cats before launching a successful solo career.
Her versatility as a performer has also extended into acting, making her one of the prominent figures in the entertainment industry.
- Birth Date: June 26, 1974
- Major Albums: “Ya Shaghilni”
- Major Achievements: Gained fame as a member of The 4 Cats, successful solo pop career, starred in numerous Lebanese and Egyptian films and television series.
38. Yasmine Hamdan
Yasmine Hamdan is a Lebanese singer, songwriter, and actress known for blending traditional Arabic folk music with contemporary electronic and indie sounds.
Her experimental approach to Arabic music has earned her international acclaim.
- Birth Date: 1976
- Major Albums: “Ya Nass”, “Al Jamilat”
- Major Achievements: Gained international recognition for her unique blend of Arabic folk and electronic music, praised for her innovative sound and performances.
39. Dina Hayek
Dina Hayek is a Lebanese pop singer who gained popularity for her powerful voice and emotional performances.
She has released several hit albums and is known for her modern approach to traditional Arabic music.
- Birth Date: June 10, 1982
- Major Albums: “Sehir Al Gharam”, “Katabtellak”
- Major Achievements: Known for her powerful voice and emotional delivery, one of the most popular female pop singers in Lebanon.
40. Dalida Khalil
Dalida Khalil is a Lebanese actress and singer who rose to fame through her roles in Lebanese television dramas.
She later transitioned into music, gaining recognition for her melodic pop songs and charming stage presence.
- Birth Date: February 16, 1988
- Major Albums: “Mesh Hayati”
- Major Achievements: Gained fame as a popular actress in Lebanese television dramas, successfully transitioned to a pop music career.
41. Noura Rahal
Noura Rahal is a Lebanese singer recognized for her ability to blend traditional Arabic music with contemporary styles.
She has gained a wide following for her unique voice and modern approach to Arabic songs.
- Birth Date: December 18, 1973
- Major Albums: “Mali Shoof”
- Major Achievements: Known for blending traditional and modern Arabic music, widely appreciated for her distinct vocal style.
42. Myriam Fares
Myriam Fares is a Lebanese singer, dancer, and actress known for her high-energy performances and captivating stage presence.
She is often referred to as the “Queen of the Stage” due to her dynamic shows and extensive catalog of hit songs.
- Birth Date: May 3, 1983
- Major Albums: “Bet’oul Eh”, “Nadini”, “Aman”
- Major Achievements: Known for her vibrant performances and numerous chart-topping hits, one of the most popular female entertainers in the Arab world.
43. Eliane Mahfouz
Eliane Mahfouz is a Lebanese pop singer and actress known for her beauty and talent in both music and television.
Her melodic voice and captivating performances have gained her a following in the Lebanese entertainment industry.
- Birth Date: 15 October 1988
- Major Albums: N/A
- Major Achievements: Gained popularity for her work in both music and acting, known for her performances on Lebanese television and in pop music.
44. Ragheb Alama
Ragheb Alama is a renowned Lebanese singer, composer, and television personality.
He is known for pioneering the Arabic pop genre and blending it with Western sounds, which has brought him immense popularity across the Arab world.
- Birth Date: June 7, 1962
- Major Albums: “Albi A’sheqha”, “Tab Leih”, “Bahebak Wa Ana Kaman”
- Major Achievements: Won multiple international awards, including World Music Awards, one of the first Arab singers to introduce pop music elements into the traditional Arabic genre.
45. Julia Boutros
Julia Boutros is a Lebanese singer widely admired for her patriotic and revolutionary songs.
Her music often carries messages of resistance, nationalism, and social justice, making her a voice for many in the Arab world.
- Birth Date: April 1, 1968
- Major Albums: “Ghabet Shams El Haq”, “Wen el Malayeen”, “Hikayet Watan”
- Major Achievements: Known for her powerful voice and patriotic songs, received numerous national and international awards, considered a symbol of resistance in Lebanon.
46. Joseph Attieh
Joseph Attieh gained fame as the first Lebanese artist to win the Arabic version of Star Academy.
His music blends modern pop with traditional Lebanese elements, making him a versatile performer.
- Birth Date: May 14, 1987
- Major Albums: “Mawhoum”, “Helwa El Hayet”
- Major Achievements: First Lebanese artist to win Star Academy, known for blending Lebanese folk and contemporary pop sounds.
47. Ghassan Rahbani
Ghassan Rahbani is a Lebanese rock musician, composer, and producer known for his contributions to the Lebanese music scene, especially in rock and metal genres.
He is also a member of the famous Rahbani family, which has played a key role in shaping Lebanon’s music history.
- Birth Date: May 13, 1964
- Major Albums: “Ghassan Rahbani Group” albums
- Major Achievements: Known for pioneering rock and metal music in Lebanon, a member of the influential Rahbani family in Arabic music, and contributing to modernizing Lebanese music.
Conclusions
Now that you’ve explored the lives and works of these 47 influential Lebanese singers, you’ve gained a deeper understanding of Lebanon’s musical legacy.
These artists have not only shaped their nation’s cultural identity but have also left a long-lasting mark on the global music scene.
What’s next for Lebanese music? As new talents emerge, they build upon the foundations laid by these pioneers.
Your journey doesn’t have to end here – why not create a playlist featuring these artists? Dive deeper into their discographies and discover your new favorites.
Share your insights in the comments below and join the conversation about Lebanon’s rich musical collection.
