Azernews.Az

By Laman Ismayilova

A solemn ceremony to mark the 100th anniversary of Azerbaijani singer Rashid Behbudov was held at the Heydar Aliyev Palace.

The event was organized under the presidential order, Azertac reported. Prior to the ceremony the event participants viewed a photo stand reflecting the life and activities of the singer.

Azerbaijani Minister of Culture and Tourism Abulfaz Garayev, addressing the event, highlighted the singer's life and his services in promoting the Azerbaijani music.

The event then featured the screening of a brief documentary on Rashid Behbudov's performance.

Recently, there was unveiled a monument to the world-renowned Azerbaijani singer in Baku. The 3-meter high-monument in front of the State Song Theatre named after the world-famous singer was made by People`s Artist, Vice Rector of Azerbaijan State Academy of Arts, Professor Fuad Salayev.

A star and a legend of the 1960s, Rashid Behbudov was a bright extraordinary personality and the greatest musical talent of his century. He is one of the founders of pop music in Azerbaijan. Even, to this day, his incredible songs grab people with astonishing force.

Behbudov’s mesmerizing voice have enchanted and influenced not only his country, but the rest of the world. His voice pierces through the heart to unlock emotions and sentiments of intense power, and yet this artist shows acute vulnerability.

Rashid Behbudov won fame by the age of 30. But such fame was not be confined to the borders of Azerbaijan, soon, his name carried across to the Soviet Union. His songs became hits worldwide. He even performed before the Shah of Iran and the King of Ethiopia.

He was also a talented actor and brilliantly starred in many films. For instance, "Arshin Mal Alan", a national film where he played the lead role, was quite successful in many countries and won the hearts of millions.

In due time people even joked that "Arshin Mal Alan" brought more profit to the country than Baku’s oil.

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