Lebanese- American singer-songwriter Mayssa Karaa makes a stirring return this month with the release of her latest single and music video, “Mata Betoud” (“When Will You Return”).
Blending Arabic lyricism with an indie alternative sound, the track captures the universal ache of longing and the fragile hope of reunion, whether for a person, a place, or a fleeting moment in time.
A collaboration with Anthony, lead vocalist of the acclaimed Lebanese band Adonis, “Mata Betoud” bridges two generations of Lebanon’s indie scene. The result is a soulful yet contemporary composition that speaks fluently to both Arabic-speaking audiences and global music lovers seeking emotional authenticity. The music video, directed by award-winning filmmaker Elie Fahed, transforms the song’s emotional essence into visual poetry, depicting the quiet moments of waiting, distance, and love’s enduring pull. Together, sound and image create a cinematic meditation on absence and belonging.
“Mata Betoud is more than a love song; it’s a question we’ve all asked,” says Mayssa. “It’s about missing something or someone deeply and holding onto the hope that love, in all its forms, finds its way back.”
About Mayssa Karaa
With her commanding multi-octave voice and distinctive blend of Middle Eastern soul and global pop, Mayssa Karaa continues to redefine the boundaries of cross-cultural music. Born in Beirut and based between the United States and the UAE, her work embodies empowerment, identity, and artistic unity through melody. She first gained global attention for her Arabic rendition of “White Rabbit” on the Grammy-nominated soundtrack of American Hustle, later collaborating with Oscar winner A.R. Rahman on the hit single “Hayati.” Mayssa also co-led the Expo 2020 Dubai anthem “This Is Our Time” alongside Hussain Al Jassmi and Almas and recently made history as the first artist to perform in Arabic with Andrea Bocelli during his New Year’s Eve concert at the Emirates Palace in Abu Dhabi.
A Berklee College of Music alumna and artistic director of its Abu Dhabi campus, Mayssa also spearheaded the Firdaus Orchestra, an all-female ensemble founded under A.R. Rahman’s patronage. Her debut album, Simple Cure, unveiled at Hollywood’s historic Capitol Studios, showcases her signature fusion, from stripped-down piano ballads to sweeping cinematic arrangements. Beyond performance, Mayssa’s songwriting reflects her values: “Titi” promotes self-acceptance and body positivity, while “Meet Me in Beirut” pays tribute to memory, love, and the city’s enduring spirit. With performances spanning UNESCO Paris, Dubai Opera, Expo 2020, and the Beiteddine Festival, Mayssa continues to bridge East and West through her voice and vision.
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