Ragheb Alama Suspended by Musicians' Syndicate After Concert

CairoScene

3 days ago

The Musicians' Syndicate in Egypt suspended Ragheb Alama and called him for investigation after a concert drew criticism for violating social norms, though his team says no notice has arrived.
Jul 22, 2025
Lebanese singer Ragheb Alama has been suspended from performing in Egypt, following a decision from the Musicians' Syndicate citing actions during a recent North Coast concert. The statement referenced what was described as behaviour that contradicts Egyptian customs and values, adding that Alama would be summoned for investigation.
The Syndicate framed the incident as a breach of the traditions upheld on Egypt's concert stages, referring to the legacies of Arab musical icons such as Umm Kulthum and Abdel Halim Hafez. The decision sparked immediate debate across social media and news outlets, where users questioned the standards being applied and what precedent this might set for future performances.
Khodr Alama, brother and manager of the Lebanese artist, said in a televised interview that they had not received any formal notice about the suspension or the investigation. The artist's team suggested they first became aware of the news through online reports.
The Musicians' Syndicate has become increasingly active in recent years, especially in regulating performances and setting conduct guidelines. This case adds to a growing list of public decisions involving regional performers on Egyptian stages.