The Success-Story of Ragheb Alama at Beirut Arab Universit
08 May 2014
Ragheb Alama – the man, the artist, the patriot, the pedagogue, the Goodwill Ambassador and Diplomat; these are but few of the titles that summarize a life-journey the pages of which BAU turned together with his fans. The event, entitled “A Success-Story”, was attended by students, artists, journalists and interested people, and highlighted his journey from his early beginnings as a singer to the peak of fame he has reached now. The honorary celebration casted light on a brilliant image of success, delving into the mysteries of a thousand tough roads travelled to reach both the Local and the International Stardom.
The event which was held on the 8th of May, 2014 at Jamal Abdul Nasser Hall , Beirut Campus, was attended by MP Dr. Ammar Houri, Mrs. Margaret El Helou, Director of the UN Office, Prof. Dr. Amr Galal El Adawi, President of BAU, Mr. Issam Houri, BAU Secretary General, , in addition to the deans of faculties, staff-members, BAU Directors, students, graduates and administrative staff. Taking the form of an interview conducted by Mrs. Zina Ariss, Director of Public Relations Administration at the University, Alama was introduced as a landmark and universal artist, whose voice has charmed the young and the old. He has sung of love, life and the fatherland, nimbly roving between words and melodies. Similarly, his songs have reached the far corners of the world, establishing the aspirations of an ambitious artist who knows no limits, spreading love from Beirut to the world”.
After showing the University’s Film, a short film about Alama’s beginnings, works and latest news, Alama and Ariss went on stage into a “Studio” specially furnished for the occasion. Alama’s story began with a narration of the difficult beginnings and challenges, as well as his mother’s rejection of the idea of his joining the world of arts. He spoke of the dreams he used to have, as well as the role-models he looked up to. His main dream, however, was to leave an imprint on the world of song. He further expressed his great admiration and love for such stars as Abdel Wahhab, Om Kalthoum and Fairouz, not to mention a long series of dedicated artists.
He also spoke of how he spent the years of his childhood. Speaking about his video clips, he denied that these are a reflection of his private life. He stressed on the importance of appearances in today’s world, emphasizing at the same time the priority of talent and vocal abilities, since their absence is indicative of a lacking stardom. In his opinion, the continuity of success lies in the ability to retain one’s fans, which can only be achieved through humbleness and reciprocated love and loyalty.
Alama also pointed out that a large number of his songs and melodies are his favorites and he constantly sings them. As for his political stance, he reiterated his intention of not entering the political arena due to the heavy sectarianism it witnesses. He maintained that his personal attitude is oriented towards the construction, peace and nationalism way, and hence very close to that of the late Rafic Hariri.
Asked about his experience as the head of the Arab Idol Jury, Alama said that it had been a step fraught with responsibilities and challenges. He praised the many talents he came across, highlighting his expectations for the winning names.
Alama also discussed the international and diplomatic titles, such as the UN Ambassador for Climate Change, Goodwill Ambassador, Peace and Humanitarian Ambassador, etc, stating that they represent great challenges as they test an artist’s sincerity. He further expressed his willingness to produce works of art that serve these titles and which raise people’s awareness as to the importance of the environment, and establishing peace in the light of current Arab and international troubled times.
This was followed by a brief question-and-answer session, in which he explicitly expressed his love for his own honesty and his hatred of his own moodiness. He further expressed his love to listening to Fairouz, his full confidence in God, and his boycotting of facebook. He stated that he considered the entire Arab World his second homeland, and concluded by addressing a sincere message to the BAU students and the Lebanese youth in which he called upon them never to despair.
At the conclusion of the event, Prof. Dr. Amr Galal El Adawi presented Alama with an honorary shield.