While we don’t usually cover pop music, we do report on major musical events in Azerbaijan. And this year Azerbaijan became the center of (Euro) pop media when it won this year’s Eurovision contest. Eldar Kasimov and Nigar Djamal, also known by their pop pseudonyms Ell & Nikki, won the 56th contest with their song “Running Scared”. This was the fourth time Azerbaijan has participated in Eurovision.
Eurovision watchers usually comment on the very political voting, the rivalry between certain countries, or the intensity some countries place on their final rating as if it was a national concern rather than a pop song election. Certainly there are many speculating on what changes will occur in Azerbaijan before next years contest. Already a major stadium is being built and Bakuvians are preparing for the onslaught of tourists and media attention.
Hopefully Europe won’t just look at politics and pop music, but at the enormous and colorful musical history of Azerbaijan. The first “Eastern” opera was written here, and the unique style of “mugam jazz” blending traditional folk styles with jazz rhythms was also created in Azerbaijan. Visitors should take the opportunity to see musicians performing live such as Rain Sultanov, Sevda Alekperzade, Isfar Sarabski, and the rock group Milk & Kisses.
We’re looking forward to seeing you in Baku next April!
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