• Widespread mourning across the artistic community as musicians pay tribute to a career spanning more than five decades

Egyptian singer Hany Shaker has died on Sunday, May 3, 2026, at the age of 73, following a health struggle that lasted over two months after suffering severe bleeding in the colon.

His passing marks the end of an important era in modern Arabic music. Shaker was considered one of the most recognisable romantic voices in the region, leaving behind a legacy that shaped the Arab music scene for more than 50 years.

His son Sherif announced the news after his father’s condition worsened steadily in recent weeks. The health crisis began earlier this year, following the initial bleeding episode that required urgent hospital care and close medical supervision.

He wrote: “Words fail me… I mourn my father, my friend, my support and my backbone. I bid farewell to the Prince of Arabic song, Hany Shaker. I haven’t just lost a father, I’ve lost my closest companion and a part of my soul.”

Singer Nadia Mostafa, a member of Egypt’s Musicians’ Syndicate, shared the announcement as well, echoing the family’s grief and paying tribute to the late artist.

An outpouring of sorrow spread across Egypt and the Arab world, with artists and colleagues remembering Shaker as one of the most influential figures in Arabic music, known for his distinctive voice, romantic style, and long-standing artistic presence.

Although his condition had deteriorated significantly in recent weeks, including treatment between hospitals in Cairo and Paris, the immediate cause of death was complications from severe colon bleeding followed by a gradual decline in his health.