Syrian singer and YouTuber Bessan Ismail has spoken about her first solo performance in Beirut, describing the milestone as both exciting and nerve-racking.
The artist, who recently made headlines over her split from fiancé Mahmoud Maher, said stepping onto the stage alone marked a significant moment in her music career. “It’s my first step performing on stage by myself,” she said. “There is a lot of excitement and good feelings, but also some worry. I’m sure the nerves will go away once I sing the first two words.”
The concert, which drew a large crowd and strong fan engagement, was her debut public show in Lebanon. Ismail has built a loyal following online over the past five years, releasing songs including Alash, Al-Khabariya Sah, Aalami Inta, Ya Khali, Malo, Al-Ashr Kafouf and Ma’shouqi.
Social media, she noted, plays an important role in her career, helping her stay connected with supporters who “know my story.” When asked if she had plans to get engaged again, she laughed, saying she would announce such news online: “I don’t know what to hide.”
Ismail also reflected on meeting Syrian superstar Assala, whom she has long admired. “I love her very much. I’ve said for a long time she was my life model. Meeting her made me love her even more. She’s a wonderful person, and I wish I could be like her.”
Her recent release, Alash, is a collaboration with singers Fouad Junaid and Amjad Jumaa, marking their first project together. Written by Junaid with lyrics by Jumaa, the track blends Moroccan and Levantine dialects with a strong Eastern musical style. The lyrics weave themes of sadness and longing, asking: “Why did you leave me instead of the poisonous blood that runs through me?”
The song’s music video, directed by Abdel Wahab Khatib, was filmed in a Lebanese studio and designed to reflect its emotional tone, combining cinematic visuals with poetic storytelling.
Alash is Ismail’s second collaboration with Junaid, following their viral hit Khattiya, which topped social media trends. The new track has received positive responses from listeners worldwide, with fans praising its cultural fusion and heartfelt delivery.
Ismail’s growing profile, both online and on stage, reflects her expanding influence in the Middle Eastern music scene. While her career gains momentum, she continues to balance the personal and professional, using her platforms to connect openly with audiences about her music, life experiences, and aspirations.
For Ismail, the Beirut concert represents a turning point — one that combines years of work with a willingness to embrace new challenges. As she looks ahead to future performances and projects, her focus remains on building a body of work that resonates across cultures and generations.
