[custom_adv] [custom_adv] [custom_adv] [custom_adv] [custom_adv] Seyyed Javad Zabihi: A Voice of Devotion and Tradition Seyyed Javad Zabihi was born in 1920 in Shemiran, Tehran. His father, Seyyed Esmaeil Zabihi, was a renowned maddah (religious reciter) from the village of Darakeh, north of Tehran. From a young age, Zabihi immersed himself in religious gatherings, often seen wearing a fineh (a traditional religious headscarf). Despite lacking formal musical training, he developed a deep understanding of vocal techniques and became known for his mastery of religious recitations. In 1936, Zabihi expanded his artistic reach by collaborating with Davoud Pirnia, the founder of Golha programs, as well as legendary musicians such as Hassan Kasaei, Reza Varzandeh, Jalil Shahnaz, Ahmad Ebadi, Morteza Mahjoubi, Ali Tajvidi, Parviz Yahaghi, Hossein Tehrani, Mehdi Khalidi, and Farhang Sharif. Although he did not perform with instruments, his unique style involved an initial instrumental improvisation, followed by his solo unaccompanied singing, and concluding with another instrumental section. This unconventional approach distinguished his performances and earned him a respected place in Iranian music. [custom_adv] Zabihi was deeply committed to religious music and became one of the most recognized voices of supplication (du'a) and the call to prayer (adhan) in Iran. His powerful, resonant voice, rich in emotion and clarity, was frequently broadcast on Iranian radio and television before the 1979 Islamic Revolution. His signature pieces, such as Madh Ali and Du'aye Sahar, were widely admired and played a significant role in shaping religious music during his era. In 1969, a collection of his selected supplications, Naghmah-e Asemani ("Celestial Melody"), was published in a 165-page volume by Ata'i Publications. The book, introduced by renowned scholar Mohammad Mohit Tabataba’i, showcased his commitment to Persian-language prayers, much like the revered mystic Khwaja Abdullah Ansari. His devotion to Persian poetic traditions, combined with his knowledge of the radif (Iranian vocal music system), further cemented his legacy. Zabihi’s influence extended beyond music; he played an integral role in religious ceremonies attended by the Shah, solidifying his position in Iran’s cultural and religious landscape. His ability to blend musical artistry with spiritual devotion made him an unforgettable figure in Iran’s musical history. His works continue to inspire religious and traditional musicians, preserving a unique era of Iranian sacred music.
