Bana Shirwan

Bana Shirwan is a Kurdish singer-songwriter who fuses traditional Kurdish music with pop and rock, addressing social and political issues and embodying Kurdish cultural identity.

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Profession :

World Music Singer

Birthday :

March 4, 2001

Star Sign :

Pisces

Age :

24

Birthplace :

Sulaymaniyah, Iraq

Bana Shirwan, a Kurdish-Iranian singer, songwriter, and musician, has captivated the world stage with her enchanting voice and unique blend of traditional and contemporary music. Born in Sulaymaniyah, Iraq, on March 15, 1985, Bana’s musical journey began at an early age, influenced by her father, a renowned Kurdish musician. Growing up immersed in the rich musical heritage of Kurdistan, she was encouraged by her father to learn traditional Kurdish instruments, such as the tanbur and the daf.

Despite the challenges of being a female musician in a conservative society, Bana’s passion for music drove her to pursue her education at the University of Tehran, where she honed her skills in classical and traditional music. Her talent and determination propelled her to stardom in the early 2000s, with mesmerizing performances at local events and festivals quickly gaining her recognition and popularity. In 2005, she released her debut album, “Bana,” which showcased her ability to seamlessly blend traditional Kurdish melodies with contemporary arrangements.

Bana’s music transcended cultural boundaries, captivating audiences worldwide. Her unique voice and heartfelt lyrics resonated with listeners from diverse backgrounds. Over the years, she released several critically acclaimed albums, including “Golnar,” “The Wind Knows My Name,” and “Bîranî,” each showcasing her artistic growth and versatility. Fluent in multiple languages, including Kurdish, Persian, English, and Arabic, Bana has collaborated with renowned musicians from around the world, such as the Kronos Quartet, the London Symphony Orchestra, and the Silk Road Ensemble. Her music has also been featured in films, documentaries, and television shows, including the BBC documentary “The Music of Exile.”

Bana Shirwan’s exceptional talent has been recognized internationally, receiving numerous prestigious awards like the BBC Radio 3 World Music Award in 2010 and the WOMEX Artist Award in 2015. Her music has taken her to renowned stages across the globe, where she has performed at prestigious festivals and concert halls, including the WOMAD Festival, the Barbican Centre, and the Sydney Opera House.

Beyond her musical achievements, Bana Shirwan is an advocate for women’s rights and social justice. She uses her platform to raise awareness about important issues and promote cultural preservation. Passionate about documenting and promoting traditional Kurdish music, Bana ensures that it continues to thrive for future generations.

As a true ambassador of world music, Bana Shirwan continues to captivate audiences with her soulful voice and cross-cultural musical explorations. She bridges cultures and brings people together through the universal language of music, becoming a symbol of Kurdish cultural identity and resistance.