Laili Shahrestani, Features Editor
As someone who grew up in a Middle Eastern household, born to two Persian immigrant parents, I can wholeheartedly tell you that no genre of music will ever compare to Persian music. Yes, maybe I am biased, but that does not mean I am wrong – listen for yourself!
My Persian identity means everything to me. I am so honored to be writing my first-ever Jasper Jams based on songs that represent my culture. Every song on this playlist is tied to a memory – letting loose on the dance floor at Persian parties, going on family road trips to Las Vegas or spending time at my grandma’s house.
Persian music dates back to the Achaemenid Empire, one of the most ancient civilizations in the world. Since then, it has modernized and developed into what it is today. Many Persian artists also tend to use instruments such as the setar, tombak and kamancheh to create the distinct beats you may hear in each song – all instruments that are also thousands of years old.
Now it’s time to step out of New York City and step into the Middle East.
Ey Joonam – Sami Beigi
We are starting off super strong here, with one of my favorite Persian songs. It is definitely a party song – one that makes you want to stop whatever you are doing and get on the dance floor. The song name directly translates to “my love” and has to do with the theme of showing gratitude for being able to have a partner who you admire so deeply. Overall, it is a super heartfelt and sweet song, but also very upbeat, and makes me want to get on my feet.
Dokhtare Irooni – Andy
Now this song is super special, because it translates directly to “Iranian girl”. As an Iranian [Persian] girl myself, I really do appreciate the lyrics of the song, as they do nothing but serve as tribute to the beauty, elegance and significance of Iranian women. It is also a classic, and never seems to get old, no matter how many times it is played.
Shabe Royaei – Aaron Afshar
Aaron Afshar has got to be the best Persian artist out there, by far. There were so many songs for me to choose from, but it would be a crime for me to not include “Shabe Royaei”. I grew up listening to this song, and even got to hear it live last year, which was absolutely incredible. The song uses a lot of metaphors to convey a sense of longing and deep love for somebody. You can definitely feel the emotion and passion in Afshar’s voice, which ultimately makes it that much more meaningful while listening.
Gol Pari Jon – Armin Nosrati
This song is probably one of the most “hype” and upbeat songs of all time. It never fails to put me in a good mood, and definitely knows how to get a party started. What’s so unique and interesting about this particular song is that it is mostly composed of banter between a beautiful woman and a man who is trying to get her attention. This song is just super light-hearted and so fun to sing along to with friends and family.
Man Aamadeh-Am – Googoosh
Now what would a Jasper Jams be without the most iconic and prolific woman singer from Iran – the one and only Googoosh? This song is so elegant and timeless, and is definitely on the slower end. In contrast to the songs above, this particular song was released in 1975, giving you a taste of what Persian music used to sound like a few decades ago. Her voice is so powerful and definitely a beautiful representation of Persian women.
Gentleman – Sasy
Despite the English title, this song is a Persian track that is so catchy and stuck in my head more than it should be. Every time this plays, I feel like I am ready to get up and start moving, which seems to be a recurring theme throughout this entire Jasper Jams. There is something about the high-tempo background music that is what makes this song so fun to dance along to.
Zendegi Ba Tou – Moein
I am closing off this Jasper Jams with another oldie. This song is nearly three decades old, and still one of the most popular songs across the Persian community. Not only is Moein’s voice super rich and calming, but it is also so nostalgic to me. This song reminds me so much of my dad, as it was something he would play in the car every time we would drive around together.