By Andrew L. Jaffee

The BBC has an interesting read into Iran’s music sub-culture, formed because of the mullahcracy’s puritanical and demented ideology. It should be noted that Iranian President Ahmadinejad banned Western music in December (no more “George Michael’s ‘Careless Whisper,’ Eric Clapton’s ‘Rush’ and the Eagles’ ‘Hotel California…’” and “…tunes by saxophonist Kenny G.”). It should also be noted that the mullahs banned access to the BBC’s website, so Iranians will not be able the read the article I’m referring to here. At least Iran’s youth are defying the ban on Western music:

Western music now is not meant to be heard - but in most hi-fis and cars, you can still heard Pink Floyd, Elton John and George Michael.

Young Iranians inside Iran are still listening to this music, although the government does not allow it.

Meanwhile, the suppression of music and youth culture in Iran - which has been going on for the last 25 years - has led to the development of a lot of sub-cultures.

Kids in school listen to Metallica and death metal bands, and they have invented their own Iranian style of rock and hip-hop.

On a semi-humorous note:

Western music has actually been banned since the Islamic revolution of 1979.

Funnily enough, two acts were allowed to be published - Elton John and Queen. They got permission - somebody convinced the government that they are not really bad, and they would not influence the young generation.

I’m sure the government doesn’t know the true sexual orientation of the singers.

I say “semi” because Iran’s theocracy hung two boys for being gay last July.

The only silver lining to this music ban is that Iran’s leadership will completely alienate the country’s youth, hopefully one day to the point of revolution. There are positive signs.

The BBC article is definitely worth reading. Enjoy.