Book Recommendation! Soundtrack of the Revolution: The Politics of Music in Iran by Nahid Siamdoust

I recently read the this fantastic book following my research on Iranian music as protest. Siamdoust has written not only a comprehensive analysis of Iranian popular music but a history book that sheds light on the often unsung role of music in social advocacy.

The book opens by describing traditional Iranian art music or avaz and how the repertoire of songs expanded greatly with more international influence. From avaz, the book moves chronologically through the varioius eras of Iranian music through the early twenty first century.

The book is divided into chapters pertaining to genres or particularly influential musicians. Siamdoust was able to feature priceless interviews with some of Iran's most eminent artists including avaz singer Mohammad Reza Shajarian.

Additionally, the book gives a unique perspective on Iran's political history through music. Siamdoust explores the music surrounding the Iranian Revolution of 1979 and the Green Movement of 2009. She carefully examines lyrics coupled with historical context to provide a wholistic understanding of the music and its effect at the time.

Siamdoust is one of the leaders in the field of Iranian ethnomusicology and currently teaches media and Middle East studies at the University of Texas in Austin.

Explore her website and Soundtrack of the Revolution!