Fez – Lebanese music has found an unexpected spotlight in global pop culture after Canadian superstar Drake incorporated a sample of Fairouz’s classic track “Wahdon” into the promotional campaign for “Iceman,” his forthcoming album.
The song, composed by the late Ziad Rahbani and written by poet Talal Haidar, is among Fairouz’s most beloved works. Drake re-arranged the original composition to align with his signature rap and R&B style, releasing a teaser on YouTube that blends his vocals with the haunting strains of the Arabic classic.
The fusion of Fairouz’s timeless sound with Drake’s contemporary style has already attracted international attention. For many Arab listeners, the choice is especially symbolic, as Fairouz’s music is often seen as part of the cultural fabric of the region.
Why Fairouz?
According to lifestyle platform “Mille,” the decision may have been influenced by Noah Chbib, a senior figure at Drake’s OVO label. Chbib, described as Drake’s “right-hand man,” is of Lebanese origin. His background may have played a role in introducing the singer to Fairouz’s catalog, bridging Arabic music with mainstream hip-hop.
This is not the first time Arab music has intersected with global pop. Artists from Beyoncé to Jay-Z have previously experimented with Middle Eastern melodies, but Drake’s use of Fairouz — often referred to as the “voice of Lebanon” — marks a particularly notable cultural crossover.
A Career Milestone for Drake
“Iceman” is expected to release later this year and will be Drake’s first solo album since 2023. Industry insiders, including Billboard, predict that the project could propel him to equal the chart records of Taylor Swift and Jay-Z for the most No. 1 albums on the Billboard 200.
Drake’s musical catalog has consistently blended influences from around the world, from Jamaican dancehall to British grime. By weaving Fairouz’s voice into his latest project, he appears to be expanding his global reach even further.
Global Reactions
The teaser has been met with excitement from fans across social media, with many Arab listeners expressing pride at seeing Fairouz’s work introduced to new audiences. Others praised the respectful integration of the original song, which retains its haunting melody even when layered into Drake’s production.
As anticipation builds for “Iceman,” the collaboration showcases how timeless Arabic music remains a constant presence on the international stage. For Drake, it is another step in his ongoing reinvention as a global artist who transcends genre and geography.
