The organizers of Ragheb Alama’s concert, initially scheduled for August 2nd at a renowned tourist village on Egypt’s North Coast, have announced a postponement until September 18th. This decision was attributed to organizational reasons beyond the control of the artist and the event planners.
However, sources within the Egyptian Musicians’ Syndicate, led by Mostafa Kamel, revealed to Al-Dustour that the postponement is directly linked to the recent controversy surrounding a “kiss” incident at Alama’s previous North Coast performance. This incident prompted the Syndicate to temporarily suspend his musical activities within Egypt.
The source added that while Alama has issued a formal apology for the incident, he has not yet completed the necessary procedures with the Syndicate, leading to the continued suspension of his activities and the enforced concert delay.
The Controversy Surrounding Ragheb Alama and the Musicians’ Syndicate
Ragheb Alama is currently at the center of an ongoing debate, with opinions divided on the Syndicate’s decision to halt his activities. Many artists and members of the public have called for a reconsideration of the penalty, particularly given his public apology and persistent efforts to engage in dialogue with the Syndicate and relevant authorities.
On Monday, July 21st, Mostafa Kamel, head of the Musicians’ Syndicate, announced a temporary suspension of Ragheb Alama’s concerts in Egypt pending an investigation. This followed a widely discussed incident during his concert on Sunday night in the North Coast, where a fan kissed him on stage, sparking widespread controversy.
In support of Alama, the Lebanese Syndicate of Professional Musicians and Singers issued a statement highlighting his role as a representative of Lebanon and Arab music on an international scale, emphasizing his consistent portrayal of sophisticated art and respected culture. They also underscored his long history in Egypt, attesting to his positive relationship with the Egyptian audience and his repeated successes in the country.
The Lebanese Syndicate stressed the deep ties between their organization and the Egyptian Musicians’ Syndicate, affirming their full respect for Mostafa Kamel and the fraternal relationship he shares with Lebanese Syndicate head Farid Abou Said. They clarified that the concert’s organizing body is responsible for ensuring the smooth flow of attendees and interactions, and that the kiss on the artist’s cheek was not an overstep but rather an expression of affection. They urged for the incident to be viewed from this perspective, free from negative interpretations.
The statement concluded by emphasizing Ragheb Alama’s commitment to presenting a respectable image of the Arab artist, portraying him as a model of refined taste and positive interaction with the audience, whether in Egypt or any other country.
Alleged Press Statement from Ragheb Alama
In what was presented as an official statement, Ragheb Alama stated: “A press statement attributed to me is being circulated on some media platforms. Therefore, I emphatically confirm that this statement was not issued by me or my official office, and does not represent me in any way whatsoever.”
He added: “I have communicated directly with Mr. Mostafa Kamel, head of the Musicians’ Syndicate in Egypt, where I explained all matters in a spirit of mutual respect.”
Alama further asserted in his statement that any spontaneous or emotional action from a concert-goer cannot be attributed to the artist; rather, responsibility lies with the organizers or the entities responsible for managing the event.
He clarified: “I have reviewed the videos and photos circulated after the successful North Coast tour, and I confirm that no inappropriate behavior occurred during my concerts from any fans or admirers.”
Concluding his statement, Alama addressed the Egyptian audience directly, saying: “Egypt has always been my second home, and it will remain so forever. I cannot be party to any behavior that offends this dear country or its esteemed audience. Nor can I respond to spontaneous actions from admirers except with utmost politeness, kindness, and respect.”
