There are so many international bands out there today who perform different fusions of music such as jazz funk played by Yemen Blues and A-WA but I’ve never gotten into them. That is before I heard the song Hinech Yafa performed by Light in Babylon’s Israeli-Iranian female singer, Michal Elia Kamal. I felt an instant connection… Read more »
Persian music has always been a main staple in my life drawing me into its unique melodies and vibrant tunes authentic to the Middle East. Yet, over the years my taste in Persian music has evolved to include various artists which best represents my cultural roots. Classical Persian music is among my favorites, combining ancient… Read more »
As a Persian-American I am often caught between my Persian identity and American ideology. However, thanks to my cultural ties and diverse viewpoints I’ve learned to embrace both. Yet, over the years, I’ve grown a stronger affinity toward my native country. Politics aside, Iran remains one of the richest countries in the Middle East due… Read more »
What unites Persian-Americans? Is it their unwavering commitment to age-old customs? Their strong pride in their identity? Or perhaps their deep sense of nostalgia for Iran? Whatever the reason, it seems culture plays a big part. Yet what does this mean exactly? May the be Persian Jews, Muslims, Christians, or Bahai’ , each segment of the population continues to practice their traditions regardless… Read more »
This is the number one question I am often asked while attending various Jewish Happy Hours within Atlanta. This of course, followed by the infamous line, “I didn’t know there were Persian Jews.” After dropping a few statistics, recounting my family’s own journey to the States, and stating what synagogue we attend, just for reassurance, I can’t help but think are American Jews really… Read more »
