Few names in Middle Eastern music carry the enduring cultural weight of Elias Rahbani—a man whose talent transcended borders, genres, and generations. As a composer, songwriter, and cultural ambassador, Rahbani carved out a place in global music history, blending Western pop sensibilities with deep-rooted Lebanese tradition.
Now, Sunset Special Markets (SSM) proudly pays tribute to Rahbani’s immense legacy, with a curated musical retrospective celebrating his iconic work across film, television, and stage.
🎶 A Composer of Global Reach and Local Soul
Born in 1938 into the legendary Rahbani musical dynasty, Elias was the youngest of the famed trio that also included his brothers, Assi and Mansour Rahbani. But Elias was far from living in the shadows—he quickly established himself as a creative force in his own right.
Elias Rahbani composed over 2,500 songs and scores, becoming one of the most prolific figures in Arab pop music. He blended catchy melodies with sophisticated arrangements, often incorporating orchestral textures and European influences. His work defined the sound of modern Lebanon during a golden era of music, especially throughout the ’60s and ’70s.
🎬 Music for the Screen and Stage
Rahbani’s talents didn’t stop at pop. He composed scores for more than 25 films in Lebanon, Bulgaria, and Austria, lending emotional depth and lyrical power to both drama and comedy. He was also the creative force behind music for stage plays, commercials, and beloved Lebanese TV series—his themes becoming a part of everyday life for audiences across the Arab world.
His influence extended beyond the borders of Lebanon, helping to build cultural bridges through cinema and music.
“He was a master of melody,” noted one film scholar in a recent retrospective screening. “His scores captured the soul of a region—and the hearts of millions.”
🎤 SSM Celebrates Elias Rahbani
Sunset Special Markets (SSM) is honored to spotlight Rahbani’s music through a special collection, bringing his timeless compositions to a new global audience. This curated release includes rare recordings, restored film scores, and digitally remastered classics, showcasing the range and depth of Rahbani’s genius.
Whether you’re revisiting his lush orchestral arrangements or discovering the pop gems that once ruled Beirut’s airwaves, this is a must-have for music collectors and cultural connoisseurs alike.
🌍 A Cultural Legacy That Lives On
Beyond the music, Elias Rahbani’s work provides a window into the Lebanese cultural renaissance, preserving moments of beauty and resilience through decades of change. He was not just a composer—he was a storyteller, a unifier, and a national treasure.
📀 Experience the music of Elias Rahbani – available now worldwide from Sunset Special Markets.
Rediscover the soundtrack of Lebanon’s golden age and the timeless genius of a true musical icon.