Kurdish folklore music meets rock ‘n’ roll in Swedish diaspora
ERBIL, Kurdistan Region – Remixing Kurdish traditional folklore music with modern genres is becoming increasingly popular among diaspora artists. The distinctively Kurdish oral tradition has found its way into jazz and symphony. Now the gods of rock have taken hold.
Kurdish pianist Saman Taha, who has lived in Sweden for a decade, has remixed and released a song by Hasan Zirak in the rock genre, aired for the first time on Rudaw.
Radically updated for modern listeners, Taha says Hasan Zirak’s work is a voice for all generations.
Kurdish pianist Saman Taha, who has lived in Sweden for a decade, has remixed and released a song by Hasan Zirak in the rock genre, aired for the first time on Rudaw.
Radically updated for modern listeners, Taha says Hasan Zirak’s work is a voice for all generations.
“Hasan Zirak was a talented person who was prolific and his work was interesting and nice. I have always wanted to do his work. I published an album of his work when I was 18 or 20,” Taha told Rudaw.
The composer and pianist produces much of his work at home, where he enjoys reviving Hasan Zirak’s melodies. He finishes his work in a studio used by world-renowned singers and songwriters.
“The origin of my work, I have been able to use these instruments with this new style to renew Kurdish works and invent new styles for the new generation who work very well. I congratulate them on this,” said Taha.
‘Dachma Sar Nala Shkena’ has been repackaged with a new rock style. The album artwork was created by Hardi Omar.