The 1979 Revolution in Iran reinforced one aspect of Iranian art that other nations had already been using for decades: revolutionary songs. Different political groups during the 1979 revolution used songs with specific rhetoric and lyrics. This tradition continued and flourished in subsequent uprisings in Iran, such as the Green Movement in 2010 and the Mahsa Amini Movement in 2022. These songs have much in common with revolutionary songs from other countries, especially those from Latin America. Additionally, some of the songs from Mahsa’s movement have become widely covered by people around the world.
Examples
“El pueblo unido jamás será vencido” from Chile
This song was adapted into Farsi with the name of برپاخیز، از جا کن بنای کاخ دشمن (Rise and Demolish the Castle of the Enemy) during the 1979 Iranian Revolution, resonating with those uniting against the Pahlavi monarchy. In the Mahsa Movement, its themes evolved to encompass life, women, and freedom, reinforcing its role in the fight for justice and equality. The name of the song is برپاخیز برای زن، زندگی، آزادی (Rise for Women, Life, Freedom) The lyrics emphasize solidarity and perseverance, encouraging collective action for a better future. With some slight changes, this song was used again during Mahsa’a movement.
“Bella Ciao,” an Italian folk song originally sung by anti-fascist partisans during World War II, has transcended its origins to become a powerful anthem for various resistance movements worldwide. With its themes of resistance and freedom, “Bella Ciao” has inspired countless individuals and groups fighting against oppression.
During the Mahsa Movement, “Bella Ciao” found renewed relevance and was covered by numerous artists, echoing its message of resilience and defiance. The song’s timeless call for liberation and justice resonated deeply with those protesting for women’s rights and freedom in Iran. خداحافظ ای زیبا (Good bye, beautiful).
“Un Violador en tu Camino” From Chile
During the Mahsa’s Movement, similar performances took place in various parts of the world, drawing inspiration from the original performance. In the Iranian version, there is a strong emphasis on the idea that the Supreme Leader and all parts of the State are rapists.
Iranian Feminist Performance in London
Iranian Feminist Perfomance in the US
Songs of Green Movement
The Green Movement was a political movement that arose after the 2009 Iranian presidential election, protesting the disputed victory of Mahmoud Ahmadinejad and calling for democracy and freedom of speech. Supporters of the movement embraced the color green as a symbol of their hopes for change and renewal in Iran.
Many songs from that time reflected the themes and issues surrounding the Green Movement, including calls for freedom, democracy, a green and prosperous Iran, condemnation of the government’s enemies, promises of continuing the protesters’ struggle, and references to bloodshed and sacrifice. The music gave voice to the movement’s aspirations and resolute spirit in the face of harsh crackdowns.
Soroude Jonbeshe Sabz (Anthem of Green Movement)
Sogand (Oath) This Song was covered later in Mahsa’s Movement.
Baraye برای (For) Song From Iran
This is the most famous song of the Mahsa’s movement. A young singer named Shervin Hajipour, who gained fame after participating in Persian Got Talent, created this song by collecting people’s tweets and composing the lyrics. the main themes here are all suffering and limitations that Islamic Regime impose on people. The song quickly went viral with over 34 million views on Instagram. The Islamic regime immediately arrested him, and made him to delete the post, but the song found its way around the world. There are various covers of this song from all over the globe. It is worth mentioning that the song has made a significant impact and even won a Grammy Award, further highlighting its global recognition and influence.
EXPLORING REVOLUTIONS THROUGH ARTISTIC MEDIUMS 