"But we also need to understand that we have a beautiful language that is unique in its aesthetics and diversity, and that we should exploit some of these values to convey a message that strikes a chord with listeners."
These were the words of the Lebanese singer and composer at Arabian Days, the festival organised by the Abu Dhabi Language Centre to celebrate the Arabic language, with a rich cultural programme including exhibitions, film screenings and lectures.
Born into a family of five in the northern Lebanese town of Zgharta, Khoury recalls a childhood filled with books and parents insisting on the importance of Arabic in a country where French and English are frequently spoken.
"It wasn't because they necessarily had a certain opinion of these languages, but they thought that Arabic culture, with its words and traditions, was the most important legacy they could leave behind."
The singer makes the most of the richness of this language in his love ballads, where metaphors are king: "Kel El Qasayed", "Khedni Ma'ak", "Itla' Fiyee", etc.
Khoury shares some of this passion in his famous TV series "Tarab", which is an audio travelogue through the musical history of the region.