Today we launch Song of the Day at Newmarket Persian Hub. Each day, we will share a song from Iranian music, with a brief introduction to its creators, the reason for that day's choice and a short look at its lyrics and music.
An audio file accompanies each post so friends can save it and keep it in their music collections.
Singer: Mohammad Nouri Lyricist: Touraj Negahban Composer: Mohammad Sarir
Why today?
Iran Iran is a fitting choice for the first day: a familiar work whose music and lyrics hold a special place among Iranian patriotic songs.
It is also only a few days after the anniversary of the death of Touraj Negahban, one of Iran's major contemporary lyricists. Negahban died on August 20, 2008, and Iran Iran is among his enduring works.
A look at the work
Iran Iran is more than a patriotic anthem. In Negahban's lyrics, the homeland becomes something deeply personal: part of one's identity, memory and sense of belonging.
The references to the flag's green, red and white do more than describe colours. They are accompanied by images of nature, sacrifice and light.
Sarir's composition in Mahur gives the piece a bright, expansive and steadfast character. Nouri's controlled, formal delivery conveys its love of country without exaggeration.
Iran Iran is an example of lyrics, music and performance working together to express belonging to a homeland.
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