The voice of a nation - Rashid Behbudov
By Amina Nazarli
Music is an art that gives soul to the universe, wings to the mind, flight to the imagination, and charm and gaiety to life and everything else. Azerbaijan’s prominent singer and public figure, Rashid Behbudov’s songs are a prime example of this, as his inimitable masterpieces, with his mesmerizing voice have enchanted and influenced not only his country, but the rest of the world.
A natural-born singer with a voice that can only be described as a gift from the Heavens, Rashid Behbudov remains an incredible and rare talent. His voice pierces through the heart to unlock emotions and sentiments of intense power, and yet this artist shows acute vulnerability.
A star and a legend of the 1960s, 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.
Indeed, it is difficult to be a star. But, what is much more difficult is to keep this title, and forever remain this unfading light. Behbudov could manage to do so.
His unique voice, he's incredible talent, his charisma and dedication to his art made it possible for him to attain career longevity.
It was one of those rare voices that instantly speaks to you, which will forever remain in Azerbaijanis' hearts, as a masterpiece created by nature in order to saturate people with the enchanting power of music.
By the age of 30 he won fame. 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.
A very curious event happened during his visit to India, when his vehement fans blocked the railway and asked the singer to sing right on the platform.
There was something magical in this man of small stature, that attracted people to him like a magnet, especially, women. Eyewitnesses told an interesting story, when once, after a concert in one of the countries of the then Soviet Union his white car was "reddened" by lipstick after female fans took it to kiss his car in a wild display of affection.
His fantastic voice did not recognize nationality or language. Behbudov used to sing songs in many languages, connecting this way to his audience as he toured the world.
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. Under the influence of his songs and soft voice, USSR’s politicians like Khrushchev and Brezhnev were reduced to tears.
Talking about music, he used to say, “Each song is like a “micro performance” with its own theme, characters, and action." Behbudov established Azerbaijan State Song Theatre in 1964 to realize his dream.
People who highly valued him as a singer and actor, always noticed his flair and power of communication that can only stir and fascinate.
Behbudov had the unique ability of connection with his audience. He could bring in his audience to identify with him, emphasize with him and travel with him on his songs.
His beautiful voice let him sing songs of any genre including popular hits, folk songs and classical music. The soulful singer, went on to become one of the most-sought after names in the music industry.
Behbudov's numerous films and astonishing recordings continue to stun and inspire singers and the public. He was celebrated and honored with numerous honors and awards.
Earlier this year, President Ilham Aliyev signed an order on marking the 100th jubilee of Behbudov, to be held in December.
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Amina Nazarli is AzerNews’ staff journalist, follow her on Twitter: @amina_nazarli
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