mixtape by darone sassounian

We teamed up with Darone Sassounian to showcase a mixtape of deep Armenian cuts from the 1960s to the 1980s scene: a blend of boogie, soul, funk, fused with Armenian sounds and heritage from the diaspora and the homeland. Half of the tracks were recorded in the diaspora, predominantly in Beirut and Los Angeles; the other half in Yerevan, during the Soviet Union. Both eras and locations play a pivotal role in musical output, inspiration, and deliverance.

The Armenian diaspora went through a period of spectacular artistic creativity. Pushing a narrative within their respective communities and outside of them. Making a mark on the Armenian people outside the homeland due to the Armenian Genocide and Soviet repression in the 20th century, this music was an ode to the past, with a nod to the present rhythms they were surrounded by. It was a matter of survival through music: some of these tracks were recorded at the height of the Lebanese Civil War in the 1970s and 1980s, making it even more remarkable given the circumstances the musicians and labels had to navigate to make this work happen.

In Soviet Armenia, there was a resurgence of Armenian music with a funky twist to familiar melodies. This initiative started to take place in the mid-1960s during the Komidas movement in Yerevan, however, it was harder to collaborate and express oneself musically due to The Iron Curtain and artistic control being directed (and many times, observed) by the state. Many recordings that didn't "fit the norm" were released in the years 1988 and 1989, after the Soviet Union began to lose its grip on many of the countries it dictated.

The tracklist for this mixtape is thick and full, with songs from all parts of the Armenian Diaspora and the homeland. It’s worthy to note that some of the artists, like Jozeph Sefian from Iran, who recorded in LA, and Hamlet Minassian recorded in secrecy during the first few weeks of the Islamic Revolution in Iran in 1979. Featured from Lebanon are Adiss Harmandian, Garo Madzounian, Jacques Kodjian, Ara Kekedjian, and Mardo Mardirossian. From Aleppo we have Karnig Sarkissian and Paul Baghdadlian. Conjunto Electrónico Armenio hail from Uruguay. Eddy Jeghelian from Australia. Avo Sarkissian recorded mainly in Montréal. Vicken Tarpinian and Marten Yorgantz recorded mostly in France. Apo Sarkissian, Harout Pamboukjian, Avo Haroutiounian, and Armen Donelian mainly recorded in the United States. Angelo Marletta and Ihsan al Munzer get a spot in this mixtape for their unique renditions of Armenian songs, recorded in the mid to late 70's in Beirut. And in Armenia SSR, we have features from Stepan Shakaryan, Georgi Minaysan, Raissa Mkrtchyan, Artashes Avetyan, Tigran Babloyan, Lola Khmoyants, Tatevik Hovhannisyan, Artur Grigoryan, Aram Satyan, and Narine Harutyunyan.

Stepan Shakaryan

A pivotal figure in 20th-century Armenian music, Stepan Shakaryan (1935–2019) is celebrated as a virtuoso pianist, innovative composer, and influential educator. Born in Baku and relocating to Yerevan, Armenia in 1952, he made an indelible mark on the country's musical landscape, particularly through his pioneering synthesis of classical tradition with the vibrant improvisational spirit of jazz. Shakaryan's profound understanding of both genres allowed him to craft works that were structurally rigorous yet melodically expansive, a unique fusion that earned him the Gold medal at the Yerevan Jazz Festival in 1965. Beyond his celebrated jazz compositions, his prolific output spanned various forms, including symphonies, intricate chamber music, and evocative scores for Armenian films and animated productions. As a respected professor at the Yerevan State Conservatory, where he taught for decades, Shakaryan also played a crucial role in shaping generations of Armenian musicians, passing on his diverse musical philosophy and contributing significantly to the development of contemporary Armenian classical and jazz idioms.

Georgi Minasian

A celebrated Armenian-Soviet and later Armenian singer, Georgi Minasian (1942-2017) was renowned for his distinct baritone voice and versatile interpretations across various musical genres. Born in Tbilisi, Georgian SSR, Minasian flourished in his career particularly during the Soviet era, where he became a beloved figure on the Armenian and wider Soviet pop and estrada (light popular music) scene. He was known for his elegant stage presence and his ability to convey deep emotion, performing a wide repertoire that included classical Armenian folk songs, romantic ballads, and popular contemporary pieces. Minasian's rich discography and frequent appearances on television and radio solidified his status as one of Armenia's most cherished vocalists. His legacy endures through his recordings, which continue to be enjoyed by Armenian communities globally, showcasing his significant contribution to the cultural fabric of the nation.

Hamlet Minassian

A prominent Armenian pop singer and composer, Hamlet Minassian is widely recognized for his enduring contributions to Armenian popular music, particularly within the diaspora. Emerging in an era that saw the global expansion of Armenian cultural expression, Minassian's distinctive vocal style and catchy compositions resonated deeply with audiences. He gained significant popularity for his upbeat, dance-oriented songs that often blended traditional Armenian melodies with contemporary pop arrangements. His music served as a vibrant soundtrack for Armenian community events and celebrations worldwide, fostering a sense of shared identity and nostalgia. Minassian's prolific career saw the release of numerous albums and hit singles, solidifying his status as a beloved icon whose work continues to be cherished across generations of Armenians.

Margo Guryan

Armenian-American singer-songwriter Margo Guryan (1937-2021) was particularly known for her unique blend of baroque pop, sunshine pop, and jazz. While many sources confirm her American birth and Russian-Jewish descent, information specifically detailing an Armenian heritage is not readily available in the provided context or general public domain information.

She initially trained in classical and jazz piano, even attending the prestigious Lenox School of Jazz where she studied with luminaries like Bill Evans and Max Roach. Her career trajectory shifted dramatically after hearing "God Only Knows" by The Beach Boys, inspiring her to write pop songs. Her compositions were recorded by numerous artists, including Spanky and Our Gang (who had a hit with her song Sunday Mornin’), Cass Elliot, and Glen Campbell.

Guryan released her only solo album "Take a Picture" in 1968, which gained cult classic status decades later, especially in Japan, due to its sophisticated arrangements and wistful melodies. Despite her talent, she largely retreated from the spotlight, choosing not to tour or actively promote her work, preferring to compose and later, teach piano. Her work has seen a significant resurgence in recent years, with new archival releases bringing her unique sound to a wider audience.

Mardiros Mardirossian

Often known by his stage name Mardo, Mardiros Mardirossian is a prominent Armenian singer and composer. Emerging in the mid-20th century, Mardirossian became a significant voice in Armenian music, known for his unique blend of traditional Armenian melodies with contemporary arrangements. He released his debut album "Mardo" in 1975, which features a collection of songs like "Sari Lala," "Khaytogh Poucher," and “Kazbek” showcasing his distinctive vocal style and compositional flair. His work often resonates with themes of Armenian culture and identity, making his music a cherished part of the diaspora's cultural heritage. Through his consistent musical output, Mardirossian has established himself as a beloved figure whose songs continue to be enjoyed by Armenian communities worldwide.

Karnig Sarkissian

Born in Aleppo, Syria in 1953, Karnig Sarkissian has also become an enduring and iconic voice within the Armenian diaspora, particularly revered for his powerful interpretations of Armenian patriotic and revolutionary songs. Having emigrated to the United States, Sarkissian’s music often serves as a vital cultural touchstone and a rallying cry for Armenians globally, especially during periods of national significance or community gatherings. His distinct vocal style – characterized by its emotional intensity and raw power – has made his live performances highly anticipated events at various community fundraisers, political rallies, and cultural festivals worldwide. Sarkissian’s extensive discography, featuring albums like "Hayotz Mardigner" (Men of Armenia) and "Lisbon Five" chronicles his deep engagement with themes of national identity, historical resilience, and the Armenian cause, cementing his legacy as a profound musical expression of the Armenian diaspora experience.

Conjunto Folklórico Instrumental Armenio

The Armenian Folkloric Instrumental Ensemble, Conjunto Folklórico Instrumental Armenio – particularly associated with Tatul Altunian – is a significant name in the preservation and popularization of traditional Armenian music. While details on its exact founding and full historical trajectory can be somewhat diffused in the broader context of Armenian folk ensembles, it represents a crucial effort in bringing authentic Armenian sounds to wider audiences, especially within the diaspora.

This ensemble is known for its faithful rendition of Arabic and Armenian folk melodies and dance tunes, typically utilizing a rich array of traditional instruments. These often include the duduk (a double-reed woodwind with a haunting, soulful sound), the oud (a short-necked, fretless lute), the dhol (a double-headed drum), the kanun (a zither-like string instrument), and the kemenche (a bowed string instrument). Their work has been instrumental in ensuring that the intricate rhythms, emotive melodies, and unique tonalities of Armenian folk music are both celebrated and transmitted across generations, particularly in regions like Argentina, where the ensemble gained notable recognition. Albums such as "20º Aniversario" highlight their enduring legacy and commitment to this vibrant cultural heritage.

Paul Baghdadlian

An extraordinarily popular and prolific Armenian singer, songwriter, and musician, Paul Baghdadlian (1953-2011) was widely considered one of the most influential figures in Armenian pop music of the late 20th and early 21st centuries. Born in Aleppo and later settling in Beirut before moving to the United States, Baghdadlian cultivated a distinct musical style that blended traditional Armenian folk elements with contemporary Western pop, disco, and romantic ballads. He was known for his deeply emotive vocal delivery, often performing songs of love, heartbreak, and diaspora experience that resonated profoundly with Armenian communities worldwide. With a career spanning over three decades and a discography exceeding 30 albums, Baghdadlian produced numerous hit songs and was a touring sensation, establishing himself as a true superstar whose passionate performances and vast repertoire cemented his status as a beloved icon in Armenian popular culture.

Adiss Harmandian

An iconic Armenian pop singer and songwriter, Adiss Harmandian (1950-2019) was widely celebrated as a central figure in Armenian diaspora music for over five decades. Born in Beirut, Harmandian emerged in the 1960s and quickly became a sensation, known for his charismatic stage presence and versatile vocal range. He was a pioneer in blending traditional Armenian melodies with contemporary pop, disco, and folk influences, creating a distinctive sound that resonated globally. Harmandian released over 30 albums throughout his career, featuring numerous hit songs like "Dzaghigner" (Flowers), "Giligia," and "Vard Garmir" (Red Rose), which became anthems for Armenian communities worldwide. His music often captured themes of love, longing, and national identity, making him a beloved cultural ambassador who bridged generations and geographical distances for Armenians around the world.

Jacques Kodjian

A Lebanese-Armenian composer, arranger, pianist, and orchestra leader, Jacques Kodjian (1935-2019) was a pivotal figure in the vibrant music scene of Beirut during the mid-20th century. Born in Beirut, Kodjian was renowned for his innovative blend of traditional Middle Eastern sounds, Armenian melodies, and contemporary Western genres like jazz, funk, and pop. His groundbreaking 1972 album, "Oriental Mood - Modern Instrumental Hits From Lebanon," exemplifies his unique fusion style, featuring sophisticated instrumental reinterpretations of classic Arabic songs and original compositions.

Beyond his instrumental work, Kodjian was a prolific arranger and producer, collaborating with numerous prominent Armenian singers of the diaspora, including Adiss Harmandian, Paul Baghdadlian, and Karnig Sarkissian, significantly shaping the sound of Armenian popular music. He also founded his own record label, JK Records, further solidifying his influence. Following the Lebanese Civil War, Kodjian relocated to the United States, continuing his musical endeavors and leaving behind a rich legacy that continues to be rediscovered and celebrated for its innovative spirit and cultural synthesis.

You can also listen to Silk Road: Journey of the Armenian Diaspora (1971 - 1982) a compilation that was fully licensed and compiled by Darone Sassounian and released on Terrestrial Funk in February 2021.

An Armenian Mixtape by Darone Sassounian