Dariush Eqbali was born in Tehran on February 4, 1951 to an Azari family and spent his early years in Mianeh, Karaj and Kurdistan. His talent was first recognized at an early age of nine, when he appeared on stage at his school. Hassan Khayatbashi introduced him to the public at the age of twenty through Iranian Television. He immediately became popular with his legendary song, “Be Man Nagoo Doset Daram" (Do Not Tell Me-I Love You).
During 1970's when Shah was in power his songs of "Booye Gandom" (Scent of Wheat) and "Zendooni" (Prisoner) were removed from the market by security police (SAVAK) but later after some adjustments were released again. Even he himself was arrested with false accusations. His contemporary and unique style opened a new era in the Iranian music. He emerged more as master of Iranian protest music.
Dariush has never compromised his deeply held beliefs. Whether he sings poems of Shamlou and Naderpour or lyrics of Janatti-Attaei, Ghanbari and Biat; the one theme that runs through all his music is that of love, peace, freedom and justice. After victory of Islamic Revolution of 1979 there was no place for Dariush’s art in Iran and had to immigrate to United States of America.
His musical work consists of more than 200 songs. He has had sold-out performances in concert halls around the world – notably Wembley (London), Carnegie Hall (New York), Kennedy Center (Washington DC), Koncertos (Stockholm), Greek Theater (Los Angeles), Universal Amphitheater (Los Angeles), Congress Center (The Hague) and many other places. Dariush has also explored the art of cinema and has acted in two films, “Yarran” and “Faryad-e Zir-e Aab”.
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