Houshmand Aghili (August 2, 1937 – September 14, 1404) was a prominent Iranian singer and composer whose career spanned nearly seven decades. Known for his dedication to traditional and classical Persian music, he became one of the voices that bridged the pre-revolutionary and diasporic Iranian cultural experiences. Aghili’s music combined the elegance of Iran’s radif-based traditions with lyrical melodies that appealed to broader audiences. He was part of a generation of artists who emerged during the golden age of radio and television in Iran, before political upheaval forced many into exile.
Residing in Los Angeles during the later part of his life, Aghili continued to perform, record, and preserve Iranian music for the diaspora. His life journey—from the cultural richness of Isfahan, to the bustling artistic circles of Tehran, and eventually to the Iranian expatriate community in the United States—reflects the larger trajectory of Iranian music in the 20th and 21st centuries.
This text explores his early life, career, artistic contributions, exile, and enduring legacy.
