Habaytak Bel Saif - Lebanon


"There are many differences between Lebanese, but Fayruz is there for all Lebanese"

Randa Melki

What is the song about? What does the song mean?

The title of the song 'Habaytak Bel Saif' means "I loved you in the summer."

Why is the song so well known in your country of origin?

Despite Lebanon’s diversity, the iconic singer Fayrouz (Nouhad Wadie Haddad) remains a unifying figure, cherished by all. She never left Lebanon, even during difficult times.

What special meaning does the song have for you?

I have heard "Habaytak Bel Saif" since my earliest childhood in Lebanon. It is about waiting for a loved one who may never come—only receiving a letter that became unreadable in the rain. It is about waiting for better times, through the seasons of summer and winter.

I love summer in the Netherlands, but only in Lebanon is the weather warm enough all year round. That is what I think of when I hear this song.

Tell us something about yourself. Who are you?

I am from Lebanon and came to Enschede, the Netherlands, for love.

Sheet music