Foad Manshadi (born June 3, 1987) or simply Foad, is an American entrepreneur, recording artist, musician, blogger, and social activist residing in Los Angeles. Foad uses his music as a forum for bringing light to social justice issues, including poverty, sexism, homophobia, and theocracy. His music serves as a forum for his feelings and ideas and is inspired by world music.[1] Foad has practiced vegetarianism since his youth.
Foad Manshadi | |
|---|---|
 | |
| Born | June 3, 1987 Tonekabon, Iran |
| Nationality | American |
| Other names | Foad Manshadi |
| Years active | 2005–present |
Early life
editFoad was born on June 3, 1987, in Tonekabon, Iran to a Baha'i family. Because of his family's faith, he was discriminated against and expelled from school in his town. At the age of 16, he fled Iran to Turkey and then the United States in response to governmental oppression.[2] His experiences with religious oppression in Iran have inspired his passion towards promotion of truth, justice, and freedom.[3] Now he resides in California, United States.
Music career
editFoad began his journey with music by learning to play the Setar, despite the fact that learning an instrument was very difficult due to the prohibition of carrying musical instruments in small towns. Nevertheless, Foad persevered in learning.[4] After migrating to the US, Foad began writing rap songs in Persian about his experiences with oppression, religion, and politics. His first rap song, "Matrood" (Rejected) which is also known as "Mazhab" (Religion), was released in 2006; later he released his first hip-hop album entitled "Enghelab Fekri" (Intellectual Revolution) in May 2008.[5] Since the release of Enghelab Fekri, Foad has continued to produce and release many singles and feature tracks. His music has gained popularity and exposure through many popular sites worldwide, including Mideastunes and NPR.[6] Also Foad was featured for the soundtrack of FX TV drama Sons of Anarchy.[7]
Social Activities
editFoad is an outspoken advocate for the freedom of prisoners of consciousness in Iran and champions both religious and political freedom as well as freedom of speech. Foad is also against capital punishment and pro-women's rights; his song "Sangsar" (Stoning) deals with both issues.
References
edit- ^ "Foad Manshadi". Freedom to Create.
- ^ "Interview with Foad: Using music to increase awareness on the plight of Baha'is in Iran". Baha'i Rights Org. Archived from the original on October 19, 2012. Retrieved October 13, 2012.
- ^ "Foad turns "United for Baha'i Human Rights" into rap song". Muslim Network for Baha'i Rights. Archived from the original on December 13, 2014. Retrieved October 13, 2012.
- ^ "Foad Monshadi – An Exclusive Interview". Zirzamin Magazine.
- ^ "Freedom to Create Artist Foad". Freedom To Create.
- ^ "In The Mideast, An Online Music Site with a Message". NPR.
- ^ "Sons of Anarchy, Season 6 Season Premiere". FX Networks.