Lebanese singer Diana Haddad denied rumors of an existing dispute between her and Egyptian folksinger Shabaan Abdul Rahim. Diana said she had never insulted Shabaan publicly and referred to him as a monologist singer, adding that what has been rumored is another attempt by the media to create problems between singers.
According to the media sources, Diana stressed that she regards Shabaan as a rising singer who has proven his talent and his courage by singing songs that serve real causes like the Palestinian Intifada (Uprising) and the war on Iraq. The singer also added that Shabaan has become a hot item for media coverage and has been known worldwide for his songs.
Rumors had it that Abdul Rahim had expressed his anger and disappointment towards Lebanese singer Diana Haddad for discrediting his talent on public television. In a personal interview held with Diana, she said that she does not consider Shabaan a real singer and holds no real talent. She added that her opinion is supported by the fact that the singer's association in Egypt refused to accept Shabaan as a member for he does not hold the needed qualifications.
Diana added that her opinion of Shabaan is her answer to him for his requested duet. She added that she would never consider singing with him for he would lessen her image and not add to it.
Shabaan was furious at Diana for her rude remarks, which he felt proved her lack of respect for other singers. He added that it was not right of her to say such things on live TV and by doing this she has forced him to call war on her. He said that he could care less what she has to say for his growing popularity is enough proof of his talent and capability as a singer.
Previously, the folk singer expressed his joy at being considered the number one political singer in Egypt and around the Arab world. Shabaan’s new title came after the success of his latest hit single “Hanza’ Al Silah” (I’m Going to Take out My Weapon). Shabaan called on all Arabs to unite and support Iraq against Western tyranny. The singer also revealed that he is currently the number one singer and actor in Egypt. Shabaan said that he is in competition with Egyptian singer Amr Diab for the number one spot in the music industry and his second rival is Egyptian singer Hisham Abbas.
Haddad had previously decided to contribute to the fight against drugs and smoking in the UAE with a new single "Bi Edak El Qarar" (The Decision is in Your Hands) written by prominent poet Karim Al Iraqi and composed by Dr. Fatih Allah Ahmad. Diana filmed the music for the new single under the direction of her husband director Suhail Al Abdoul, which will be broadcasted throughout satellite and local TV stations. Diana was chosen to be part of the campaign for the fight against drugs among a large list of candidates for her wide popularity around the Arab world. –Albawaba.com
© 2003 Al Bawaba (www.albawaba.com)
