Classical to Pop, Good or Bad? Iran’s Choice.

Lesson Learned:

      Restrictions on music in Iran is not stoping the younger generation for doing what they adore most, experiencing different genres of music exhuming throughout with whatever way possible. Nothing will stop people who are driven by music. 

Description:

     This website article written by Jos Schring made it clear that after the Iranian revolution, classical music still remained. However, as times have changed, pop music has made its way through Iran, eager to change those that are less familiar with it.

Scene from No one knows about Persian Cats

No one knows about Persian Cats by Bahman Ghobadi enlightens those who are unaware of how pop music is viewed through the eyes of Iranians, exhuming lines throughout the play asking “Do you like Indy Rock?” and getting answers along the lines of “Yes, I love 50 Cent and Madonna”. This isn’t strange , since pop music is forbidden within Iran. How will you ban pop music in a country where half the population is under 30?” The answer is tricky. Iran is not stoping in their efforts to continue to fight for their rights pertaining to music, practicing in basements, rooftops, underground and basically anywhere possible. You would expect a ruler to accept some music, understanding that his people are suffering. Nonetheless, even smooth sounding songs involving guitars, have no chance in the eyes of Ahmadinejad. Many bands see their future blossoming within the music industry, willing to relocate to different areas, fulfilling their dreams to perform abroad, even getting the chance to travel with Ghobadi as he promotes his film. Others not ready or dangerous enough to leave Iran, continue to play music in their basements and place their music on the internet for all to hear. Not only are the people suffering, but individuals partaking in films that give insight to events happening in Iran are also putting their lives in danger for going against government orders. (Schring 1) 

Evaluation: 

     This article was a very interesting article, in the fact that it gave information pertaining to films that give a glimpse inside the lives of Iranians, played by actors. It’s amazing that even actors are risking their lives to do what they love, taking along others who want to move and follow their dreams without government hinderance. It touches on a different base that several other articles have not yet touched on, allowing the reader to see that films are coming out to show how pop music is continuing to make its way to listeners and artists throughout Iran, and learning first hand on how pop music is effecting those that are familiar with it and those that don’t even know what pop music is just yet. The determination among Iranian’s is still thriving, not allowing government bans to hinder their plans for the future. 

Citation:

      Schring, Jos. “Pop music from Iran: both ordinary and unusual”. The Power of Culture. April 2010. Web. 12 Nov 2011. 


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