Music Events Shut Down Over Religious Beliefs
Iranian officials in the city of Abadan recently canceled multiple live music events following a claim by local Friday Prayer Imam Abdolhossein Ghobishavi that such performances were sinful and had led to a drought by angering God. This controversial decision, which contradicts a directive from President Masoud Pezeshkian’s administration supporting music events, highlights the persistent cultural and religious tensions surrounding music in Iran.
Decades of Restrictions on Music in Iran
Since the 1979 Islamic Revolution, Iran has imposed strict laws on music, particularly live performances. The government tightly regulates all forms of musical expression, with many genres—including electronic music—facing severe restrictions. While some traditional and classical performances are tolerated, modern music, especially electronic dance music (EDM), remains highly censored.
In Iran, radio and television networks do not broadcast most genres of music, and artists must navigate complex bureaucratic hurdles to obtain permits for recording songs or organizing concerts. Female singers are largely banned from performing solo, and mixed-gender performances are prohibited. These restrictions have stifled Iran’s music scene, forcing many artists to operate underground or move abroad to continue their careers.
The Struggle for Electronic Music in Iran
Electronic music, which thrives on club culture, festivals, and live performances, has faced even greater challenges in Iran. Despite a passionate underground scene, government crackdowns have made it nearly impossible for local DJs and producers to host legal events. The authorities often raid underground parties, arrest musicians, and confiscate equipment.
International electronic music artists rarely perform in Iran due to these restrictions, and local electronic producers struggle to gain recognition. Many artists release their work anonymously or under pseudonyms to avoid repercussions. The recent cancellation of concerts in Abadan serves as another example of the government’s rigid stance against modern music culture, limiting the growth of electronic music in the country.
Contradictions in Government Policy
While President Masoud Pezeshkian’s administration recently instructed ministries and official bodies not to interfere with music events, local authorities in Abadan ignored this directive by canceling concerts under pressure from religious figures. This contradiction reflects the ongoing battle between Iran’s conservative religious leadership and those advocating for cultural openness.
The Iranian government often oscillates between enforcing strict religious laws and attempting to present a more progressive image to the world. However, incidents like this reinforce Iran’s long-standing reputation as a country where artistic expression, especially in music, remains heavily policed.
What’s Next for Iran’s Music Scene?
As the global popularity of electronic music continues to rise, Iranian artists and music lovers are left questioning their place in the industry. Many musicians have turned to online platforms such as SoundCloud and Bandcamp to share their work with the world, but live performances remain largely inaccessible.
Unless there is a significant cultural shift, Iran’s restrictive policies will continue to stifle both mainstream and underground music scenes. With increasing demand for change among younger generations, however, the push for greater musical freedom in Iran is unlikely to fade away.