Reviving the Glory: Melhem Zein’s Captivating Performances Illuminate the Baalbeck International Festival

The Lebanese superstar “Melhem Zein”, the son of Baalbeck, enthralled the audience of the Baalbeck International Festival with his singing, mesmerizing them with his music, dance, and joy, leaving them with wonderful memories and returning the old structures of Baalbeck to their previous splendor. “It is an honor for me to stand on the stage of this great monument, where my first inspiration and first love, Baalbeck the city of the sun emerged,” Melhem Zein remarked.

By performing around 20 of his best songs, and with his powerful and beautiful voice, Melhem Zein carried the audience to a realm of romance and dreams (Nami, Inti Mashiiti, Mamonak Ana) and then to a sense of pride in their homeland and its army (Helm Al-Ard). He also took them on a folkloric joy voyage and the legendary Baalbecki Dabke (Alawah, Gheibi Ya Shams, Ala Ayn Moulayite, Ya Zghiri…), demonstrating his amazing talent and touching emotions with the beauty of his voice. The audience’s emotions were captured as the stage vibrated with his popular melodies.

The Al Majd Performance Group, led by artist Khaled Al-Naboush, accompanied Melhem Zein on the second night, giving a blend of legacy, authenticity, and the Lebanese traditional touch to the magical evening. However, for unknown reasons, the Majd Performance Group was not present on the first night, exclusive to the people of Baalbeck.

Melhem Zein’s performances at the Baalbeck International Festival were nothing short of spectacular. He skillfully transported the audience into a world of romance, pride, and folklore joy with his powerful voice, captivating stage presence, and repertoire of lovely tunes. His performances created an indelible effect on the audience and restored the glory and grandeur of the ancient Baalbeck architecture.

Melhem Zein’s love for his city and profound connection with the audience shone through the two evenings, making it an unforgettable experience for everybody. Al Majd Performance Group’s involvement on the second night offered another dimension of cultural richness and boosted the overall mood of the event. The Baalbeck International Festival will surely be remembered for Melhem Zein’s outstanding performances, which reaffirmed the festival’s status as a significant cultural event.

Photos: Wael Hamze ©