Elissa on the virtual stage: Lebanese singer to stream online concert on June 4

Fans of the singer can watch her performance on the Shahid VIP platform

Lebanese singer Elissa will perform an online concert on the Shahid VIP platform. Getty Images

Elissa is the latest Arab pop star to take the virtual stage.

The Lebanese singer will perform on Thursday, June 4, which will be streamed on MBC's Shahid online platform from 11pm, under its paid subscription tier Shahid VIP.

The news follow a number of successful online gigs held over the Eid break by the likes of Emirati singer Hussain Al Jassmi, Iraqi crooner Kadim Al Sahir and Lebanese stars Najwa Karam and Nancy Ajram.

What makes the Elissa show anticipated, however, is that it sets the scene for the arrival of her upcoming album. In addition to the hits Sahrana Ya Leil and Halet Hob, the songstress will use the online platform for the debut live performance of two new singles, Hanghani Kaman Wi Kaman and Ahwit El Madi.

The former song became an online sensation when released on Saturday, April 11, due to its message for fans to stay home amid the pandemic.

The accompanying music video was presented in the style of an online conference with Elissa at home – complete in pink pyjamas – reaching out to friend and fellow pop star Haifa Wehbe, who is also isolating at home.

Concerned by her bored state, Elissa consoles her by singing the song. As the track develops, the screen splits into video-conference mode with family members and fans tuning in and dancing along from their respective homes.

Both Hanghani Kaman Wi Kaman and Ahwit El Madi showcase the Egyptian pop style Elissa promised with her upcoming album.

With a release date yet to be announced, the project will have tracks sung in the Egyptian dialect. It also features work by one of Egypt’s top songwriting trios, comprising composer Mohammed Yahya, lyricist Shady Nour and arranger Elhamy Dheima.

Almost three decades into her career, Elissa continues to be a leading light in the Arabic pop music industry, with 30 million albums sold. For more details on the concert, go to www.shahid.net