Due to the war in Beirut, Aziz Abdo and his family found themselves in the vastly different culture of Sweden. There, he began an impressive career in football, but an unexpected accident led him to pivot into modeling. He walked in numerous fashion shows for top-tier designers such as Giorgio Armani, Gucci, and Karl Lagerfeld. Major global fashion brands, including Versace, even chose him as their brand ambassador.
After making waves in the fashion world, he transitioned once again—this time into music, a move that would make him one of the most famous artists in the Arab world.
In 2023, he was awarded the title King of Arab Pop at the prestigious CAEL Awards, solidifying his place as one of the most talented and successful singers in the region. Known for his expansive and progressive approach to songwriting and music production, Aziz Abdo has also collaborated with international stars such as Zayn, co-writing the hit track Too Much, produced by Timbaland.
Branching out even further, he has made his mark in Bollywood by contributing music to a Vidyut Jammwal film that was screened in cinemas across the UAE. His songs routinely exceed expectations, quickly becoming massive hits with millions of views. Known for his provocative music videos and magnetic presence, he is widely regarded as one of the sexiest figures to captivate global audiences.
But perhaps most impressive is not just his fame or his looks—it’s his character. Despite his success, he remains deeply rooted in his values and origins. For his most recent photo shoot, he returned to his beginnings in Beirut, showcasing the places he once loved and still holds dear.
Come with us to meet Aziz Abdo, the most captivating and intriguing star in the Arab world.
You were born in Beirut, Lebanon. At a young age, due to the war, you had to move to Sweden. What do you remember from that time?
I was very young when my parents decided to leave Lebanon due to the war. I remember people screaming, bombs blasting, chaos in the streets, no security, and fear everywhere.
You started out as a professional football player and won many tournaments. In 2004, you transitioned into modeling and released your debut album, which became a massive success in Lebanon and across the Middle East. How did that shift happen?
Yes, I was a professional football player in Sweden, and I was very passionate about the game. Unfortunately, as what happens with many players, I injured my knee twice and was forced to quit football on a professional level. I was depressed for 1½ years because football was my life, and suddenly I couldn’t play anymore. Getting through that was one of the biggest struggles of my life.
In 2023, you were awarded the title King of Arab Pop at the prestigious CAEL Awards, cementing your status as one of the most talented and successful singers in the Arab world. What do you remember about that moment?
When I heard my name announced as the winner of the prestigious CAEL Award, The King of Arab Pop, I was honored, humbled, and grateful that my music was appreciated by so many.
You were also known as Mr. Lebanon. Can you remind us about that chapter in your life? My transition into modeling is a very funny story… I was enjoying a night out with my friends, and a woman approached me and asked if I wanted to work as a model. I was very surprised, not ready for that kind of question, so I jokingly said, “Sure.” Then the next day, she called me and asked me to come to the agency. And that’s how it all started!
Then in early 2001, I moved to Lebanon, where I worked as a model and later that year became one of the biggest models in the Middle East, winning the title of Mr. Lebanon. As part of a PR move, I was asked to sing a song, and when I went to the music studio to record, little did I know that the biggest music producer in Lebanon was sitting there watching me. As I was leaving, he approached me and said, “Aziz, I love your voice and I love your look, and I believe you could be the next Ricky Martin in the Middle East.” I was shocked.
We met the following week, and he offered me a music contract, which I signed, and my music career began. My debut album Jaw Jnoun was released in 2004 and soon became a mega success.
Which artists have influenced you the most throughout your career?
My idol was Michael Jackson… his voice, his music, his charisma, his moves, and how he was adored by all was on a different level.
Your music videos have often been described as sexy and provocative—something that contrasts with traditional norms in the Arab world—yet they brought you fame. What’s the reality behind this perception?
Latin/pop music comes from the heart. I’m just being myself, and at its core, Latin music is sensual, sexy, and full of emotion.
Can you tell us more about your upcoming plans and projects?
I am working on a lot of exciting projects, new releases, lots of concerts, and a big duet on an international level is in the works.
In your opinion, what is the most important quality a man should have?
Honesty, self-respect and respect for others, love, integrity.
What do you appreciate most about women? Who would you consider your ideal woman?
Women play a big role in my life. They are creative, passionate, determined, and from my mom to my coworkers to my private life, women have all—and only—been a positive influence. My ideal woman would be my mom.
How would you describe yourself, as a man, as an artist, and as a person?
As a man, I have values. I am very straightforward. I know what I want in my life. I am a serious person, yet I’m very funny. I am dedicated to my work, my family, and all my responsibilities. I care about people and treat them with respect and love.
As an artist, I have big dreams. I believe in myself. I work hard to achieve my goals. I never give up. In my music, I believe in being different, trendy, and thinking outside of the box.
Credits:
Talent: Aziz Abdo @azizabdoofficial
Project Manager: Elie Sayah @eliesayah
Artist Manager: Ziad Karimeh @ziadkarimeh
Photographer: Charbel Msallem @charbelmsallemstudios
Stylist: Musaed Alsaqer @musaed.d
Makeup Artist: Elise Kharrat @makeupelisekharrat
Hair: Soledair Salon @soledair_salon
Marketing & PR Agency: Brighten Ads @brightenads
Interview Ada Iliopoulou @adalesoleil30
Coordination & Production Mephistopheles Productions @mephistophelesproductions