The Lebanese art scene was shaken by the death of artist Youssef Abu Hamad, a member of the musical band "Rand," just hours before a concert the band was scheduled to perform on Wednesday evening, causing a great shock among his fans and colleagues.

The family of the late artist announced that the funeral procession will be held today, Thursday, at 12:00 PM at the Our Lady of Gifts Church in the Ashrafieh district of Beirut. His body will be laid to rest in the family cemetery in his hometown of Jezzine, southern Lebanon.

A Musical Release Before DepartureYoussef Abu Hamad’s passing came just days after "Rand" released their latest song titled "Sarna Baad" ("We Became Apart"), with lyrics by the late Lebanese poet Rouhi Toma, and composed by Youssef himself, which seemed like an unexpected farewell message to his audience.

The song stands as an artistic and emotional tribute to Rouhi Toma’s legacy, known for blending deep meaning with simple expression.

A Visual Tribute Documenting MemoriesThe music video, directed by his brother Jamal Abu Hamad, visually reflects the song’s themes through real footage of the three band members (Youssef, Laila, and Jamal), filmed across Lebanon, Saudi Arabia, and France.

The video is simple yet emotional, conveying messages of exile, homeland, reunion, and memories, serving as an emotional document commemorating the band’s journey and immortalizing Youssef’s memory.

Rand Band: A Family Artistic LegacyFormed in 2013, Rand consists of three siblings who graduated from the Lebanese National Higher Conservatory of Music.

Over the years, the band has offered a refined artistic blend of vocals and piano, known for works inspired by both Eastern and Western musical traditions.

Rand has released 13 original songs to date, performed concerts in Lebanon, Egypt, and the United States, and received extensive media coverage locally and internationally.

With the passing of Youssef Abu Hamad, the Lebanese music scene loses a sensitive and creative voice, but his works will remain a testament to his unique artistic presence and loving spirit toward music and life.