George Wassouf recounted the hardest period of his life and the death of his son Vadi during a podcast.
A great tragedy
In the podcast "Menna and Fina," Wassouf told journalist Heba Haidari that his son's death was a "great tragedy." He said Vadi was not only his son but also his closest friend and life companion. Wassouf also emphasized that the pain of losing a child does not fade with time.
"May God have mercy on him. Losing him was one of the most difficult tests I have ever faced. He was my son, my friend, and my closest companion. I used to take him everywhere with me."
Funeral details
Wassouf also spoke about his son's funeral. He said he asked those attending not to open fire during the ceremony, fearing further casualties. He made this request via a video message and said his fans heeded his call.
Grandson named after his son
The artist said the birth of his grandson brought great joy to the family, and they named the baby "Little Vadi." Wassouf added that after his son's death, he deeply wished that one of his children would have a child bearing the same name, and this wish came true.
Handwritten condolence message from Fairuz
Wassouf revealed that after his son's loss, he received a handwritten condolence letter from the famous artist Fairuz. He said this unexpected letter was delivered by a postman and is now among his most treasured possessions. He noted that he keeps the letter in a special safe containing his son's personal belongings.
Meeting with Fairuz and his approach to her songs
Wassouf recounted that he met Fairuz years ago at her request, and the encounter took place in a warm and simple setting. He added that he never considered performing her songs, because these works are so deeply intertwined with her artistic identity that reinterpreting them would be difficult.
Remembering Melhem Barakat and supporting fellow artists
Wassouf, known as the "Sultan of Tarab," also spoke about his friendship with the late musician Melhem Barakat. He said their last meeting was just days before Barakat's death. He also stressed that he has supported many artists throughout his career but never sought to publicize it.
Advice for the younger generation
Toward the end of his conversation, Wassouf addressed young singers like Nassif Zeytoun and El Shami. He said talent alone is not enough; an artist's longevity depends on humility and the relationships they build with people, because what truly endures is love and respect.
The stories behind his songs
George Wassouf also shared the stories behind unforgettable hits like "Kalam El Nas" and "Half El Amar." He explained how these songs evolved into classics over time.
Stage and new projects
Wassouf said being on stage gives him the greatest excitement, and hearing audiences sing along to his songs inspires him to create new works. The artist is preparing to perform a concert at the 40th edition of the Jerash Festival for Culture and Arts in Jordan. He also announced that he is working on a new song titled "Taminni A'l Habayeb" with the Egyptian composer Salah El Sharnouby, with whom he has previously created hits like "Kalam El Nas" and "Bayya'a El Hawa."