The First Lady of the United States, Jill Biden, Presents the First Best Song for Social Change Special Merit Award to the Iranian Singer Songwriter Shervin Hajipour
Just a few days after the brutal killing of Mahsa Amini in the hands of the “morality police” in Tehran and the subsequent mass protests around the country, Shervin Hajipour composed the song “Baraye” and posted it on his Instagram feed. Baraye simply means “for.” Each line of lyrics starts with Baraye (for) simple demands and reasons that Shervin had gathered from various tweets. The result was a powerful and poetic poem for freedom and women’s rights. Within two days, the video was watched 40 million times. The song became an anthem of the demonstrations and rallies, in Iran and around the world. The song was performed at major concerts and translated into other languages.
“A song can unite, inspire, and ultimately change the world,” Biden said. “I am honored to announce the first winner of the Recording Academy’s best song for social change to Shervin Hajipour.” She continued: “This song continues to resonate around the world with its powerful theme—Women, Life, Freedom.” While Shervin’s “Baraye” was being played in the background, Biden concluded: “Congratulations, Shervin, and thank you for your song.”
Shortly after the song went viral, Shervin was arrested and taken to the notorious Evin Prison. Later he was freed on bail—it is still not clear what will happen to him.
This is a huge achievement for the Iranian people and the “Woman Life Freedom” movement to take over one of the largest and most visible stages in the world, showing their peaceful struggle in demanding basic human rights in their country.
The Grammy Award is the highest honor for American musicians and it is also considered a huge accomplishment worldwide.
