Balancing melancholy and romance, memory and emotion, Syrian singer Majd El Qassem continues a musical journey spanning more than three decades, firmly establishing himself as one of the most expressive dramatic voices in Arab music. Shaped by experience and emotional honesty, his voice has carried timeless songs and deeply felt “mawwals”—the traditional, slow-paced, emotionally charged Arabic vocal form—that remain etched in the collective memory of Arab audiences.
Today, El Qassem returns with a new mini album, “Shou Helou”, a project rooted in optimism and designed to restore a sense of joy at a time when listeners are increasingly drawn to uplifting music.
In this exclusive interview, he reflects on the new release, his artistic evolution, his bond with audiences, and his philosophy of musical honesty and longevity.
Why did you choose the title “Shou Helou” for your new mini album?
“Shou Helou” is a very simple phrase, yet it carries a strong positive energy. I wanted to present a project filled with hope and happiness—music that reminds people that life still has beautiful moments worth celebrating, despite everything.
How did you shape the musical identity of the album?
The mini album includes five tracks, each with its own character:
“Shou Helou”: A light, romantic, upbeat song
“Hilek Hilek”: A fast-paced, modern pop track
“Sanet Full”: A song driven by optimism and positive energy
“Anti Al-Amira”: A classic romantic ballad
“Ala Nar”: A dramatic duet with Hamdy Al-Junaidi
The idea was to balance romance, pop, and drama while remaining faithful to my musical identity.
What makes this release different from your previous work?
It carries a fresh musical spirit. I collaborated with younger composers, lyricists, and producers, which brought new energy to the project. The album also benefited from strong digital momentum—songs like “Shou Helou” and “Sanet Full” gained traction on TikTok and Instagram, helping me reach a new generation of listeners.
How do you view your career after more than three decades in music?
I feel proud and deeply grateful. Songs like “Ghammed Aineik,” “La‘bitak,” “Qaswat Qalbak,” and “Isma‘ Ba’a” are still alive in people’s hearts. For any artist, remaining present in listeners’ memories over time is the greatest achievement.
Why do you remain committed to romantic and dramatic music?
Because romance and drama are not trends for me; they are emotional truths. I can only sing what I genuinely feel. Mawwals allow me to express deep emotion and personal storytelling in an honest and sincere way.
How did Egypt influence your artistic journey?
Egypt embraced me both artistically and personally. Singing in the Egyptian dialect and collaborating with major Egyptian composers expanded my horizons and reinforced my belief that authentic music has no borders.
What keeps you motivated after all these years?
My audience. Their love and emotional connection give me strength. Music saved me; it became my refuge and a way to heal myself, and hopefully to bring comfort to others as well.
How do you view today’s music industry in the age of social media?
Social media is a powerful tool, but it must be used wisely. While it accelerates exposure, it does not replace substance. I believe authentic music eventually finds its audience, regardless of trends.
How were the reactions following the album’s release and your recent concert in Mohandessin?
The response exceeded my expectations. The concert witnessed strong attendance and emotional engagement, while online platforms recorded impressive streaming figures and positive feedback. It reaffirmed my belief that audiences still appreciate sincerity.
Are there plans for upcoming performances or a full-length album?
Yes, there are upcoming concerts in Cairo and the North Coast, followed by tours in the Gulf and Europe. A full album is planned for late 2026 or early 2027, building on the success of “Sho Helw.”
How do you hope to be remembered?
I want to be remembered as an honest artist; someone who stayed faithful to his voice, his music, and his audience.
