Iranian pop is a unique and energetic form of music that was unfortunately cast under the rug by the nation’s 1979 fundamentalist revolution. As the Ayatollah seized power and the Shah’s more moderate regime ended, most forms of western influence, seen as distractions from Islamic teachings, were banned. This forced many professionals and entertainers to go into exile or face giving up their livelihood. In a culture where religion is the foundation and nucleus for all other happenings around it, little importance was placed, if not deterred, on western pop music. The contemporary Iranian take on pop is somewhat similar at a basic level to that of Latin American pop: big, banging, repetitive drum beats that can be consistently heard in their songs along with more traditional, ethnic instrumentation, and vocals often sung by an individual who gains celebrity and notoriety (think Madonna). Now that most of the original artists have emigrated elsewhere and their music has become more widely available (props to the internet), a new generation can experience the unique and uplifting music from a time before the revolution. Here’s some of our favorite first-name-only artists for your listening pleasure:
Googoosh:
In the 1970s, Googoosh was considered the most celebrated recording artist in Iran. In addition to music, Googoosh was also an actress in many Persian films of the 1960s and 1970s. After the 79′ Revolution she remained in Iran until 2000, but did not record or perform again due to the ban on solo female singers. Still, her following grew as younger people rediscovered her music via bootleg recordings. Outside of Iran, she has a significant following in many Middle Eastern and Central Asian countries, and currently resides in Los Angeles, California where her career is still powerfully audible.
The track, “Pol” (pernounced pool) means money. Nice.
Googoosh
“Pol” (mp3)
from “40 Golden Hits Of Googoosh”
(Taraneh Enterprises Inc)
Buy at iTunes Music Store
More On This Album
Hayedeh:
Hayedeh was a legendary Persian Pop diva and classical singer with a contralto vocal range. In a career spanning two decades, she had countless numbers of hits and captured the hearts of millions around the world. To this day Hayedeh is considered one of the most influential and iconic Persian vocalists of all time. In August 1978, shortly before the Iranian Revolution, Hayedeh immigrated to the United Kingdom. She stayed there for three years then moved to the United States in 1982 to continue her career and live close to her sister Mahasti (also an Ipop vocalist). She remained in Los Angeles (sense a pattern yet?) till her death.
Zamooneh features an awesome string section and Hayedeh’s booming voice.
Hayedeh
“Zamooneh” (mp3)
from “40 Golden Hits of Hayedeh”
(Taraneh Enterprises Inc)
Buy at Rhapsody
More On This Album
Dariush:
Dariush Eghbali is a phenomenon in the history of Iranian music. His voice carries forth an essence from an ancient land and his tremendous stylistic lyricism has touched the souls of people all over the world for over three decades. The one theme that runs through all his music is that of love, peace, freedom and justice. His body of work consists of over 200 songs on 25 albums, ranging over many genres and styles. He has had sold out performances in concert halls around the world including Wembley, Carnegie Hall, The Kennedy Center, Koncertoes (Stockholm), The Greek Theater, International Centre (Toronto) and Palais de Congres (Paris). His inherent musicality and intelligence and the astonishing beauty of his timbre, coupled with a passionate belief in the importance of civil liberties and political and human rights has made him an international symbol of a free Iran. He has been a messenger of love and compassion to the refugees all around the world struggling to find a tiny nest away from the tyranny and suppression.
Sale Dohezar is a funky, powerful, and politically charged song that showcases why Dariush is so loved.
Dariush
“Sale Dohezar” (mp3)
from “40 Golden Hits of Dariush”
(Taraneh Enterprises Inc)
Buy at Napster
More On This Album
