BEIRUT (AP) — Ziad Rahbani, the renowned Lebanese composer, playwright, pianist, and political provocateur, passed away on Saturday at the age of 69, as reported by the state-run National News Agency. The announcement of his death was confirmed by a close associate who requested to remain anonymous; however, the exact cause of death has not been released.

Born in 1956 in Antelias, a suburb near Beirut, Ziad Rahbani was the eldest son of the iconic Lebanese singer Fayrouz and the influential composer Assi Rahbani, who was one half of the acclaimed Rahbani Brothers. From a young age, Rahbani demonstrated extraordinary talent, composing his first musical piece at just 17 years old. Growing up in an artistic environment infused with music, theater, and political awareness, these elements would significantly shape his life's work.

Fayrouz frequently performed Rahbani's compositions during her popular concerts, effectively blending Lebanese folklore with Western rhythms and musical phrasing. His contributions to the arts did not go unnoticed; Lebanese President Joseph Aoun expressed his condolences, labeling Rahbani's passing as a national loss. In his statement, Aoun described Rahbani as "not just an artist, but a complete intellectual and cultural phenomenon," and praised him for being "a living conscience, a rebellious voice against injustice, and an honest mirror reflecting the suffering and marginalized peoples."

Highlighting Rahbani's unique ability to fuse classical, jazz, and Oriental music, Aoun stated that his work "opened new windows for Lebanese cultural expression" and elevated Lebanese culture on the global stage. The president remarked, "Ziad was a natural extension of the Rahbani family, which contributed much beauty and dignity to Lebanon."

While his parents helped establish a golden era of Lebanese musical theater characterized by idealism and nostalgia, Ziad Rahbani emerged with irreverent satire and unflinching political critique, reflected in his jazz-influenced scores that perfectly articulated the tumultuous times in Lebanon. His first breakout play, Nazl el-Sourour (Happiness Hotel), premiered in 1974 when he was merely 17 years old. The play depicted societies marred by class disparities and oppression, portraying a group of workers who hijack a restaurant in pursuit of their rights, only to be dismissed by the ruling elite.

With this striking debut, Rahbani encapsulated a recurring theme in his career: the fracturing of Lebanese society, not only by war but also by deep-rooted power dynamics. His later works solidified his status as the voice of the disenchanted. In Bennesbeh Labokra Chou? (What About Tomorrow?), he presented a world through the eyes of a jaded bar pianist navigating post-civil war Beirut's surreal landscape of broken dreams and absurdity, capturing poignant moments with biting commentary; one notable line from the play asks, "They say tomorrow will be better, but what about today?"

Beyond being a playwright, Rahbani was also an exceptional composer with diverse influences. He merged traditional Arabic melodies with jazz, funk, and classical elements, creating a signature sound that resonated deeply with audiences. His live performances became legendary, whether in the intimate settings of smoky clubs in Hamra, a vibrant commercial district in Beirut, or during large-scale theatrical productions.

The collaborations between Rahbani and his mother, Fayrouz, particularly during the late 1970s and 1980s, marked a transformative period in her artistic career characterized by a darker, politically charged tone. Iconic tracks such as Ouverture 83, Bala Wala Chi (Without Anything), and Kifak Inta (How Are You) showcased Ziad's introspective compositions and profound lyrical depth.

Despite his groundbreaking contributions to music, Rahbani faced criticism from Arab traditionalists who challenged his efforts to create a harmonious blend of Arab and Western musical traditions. His innovative approach has left a lasting imprint on the cultural landscape of Lebanon.