Dancing with Dandelions (live performance in Redpoppy Art House music Festival)

https://www.emadbonakdar.com/
https://www.instagram.com/emadbonakdar_official/
https://open.spotify.com/artist/0JduwVXPIOJFsov3HiHK4U?si=X1JfCE2wSXKzNONl87Gmxg

Emad Bonakdar grew up in Tehran, Iran, during a time when music was
banned by the Islamic regime. A self-taught musician, he began his musical
journey alone, dedicating twenty years to mastering his craft and searching for
his true musical voice. He eventually found a home in Flamenco—a style that
resonated deeply with his heart, allowing him to express emotions and passion
in ways no other music could.
Blending his love of traditional Persian music with the soulful, expressive
power of Flamenco, Emad developed a unique sound that is distinctly his own.
His first fusion music concert took place in Tehran in 1991, and in 1999, he
released his debut album, ARG, inspired by the rich culture of the ancient
Persian Empire and the Magham melody tradition. The album was banned for
two years in Iran due to his collaboration with female singer Mamak Khadem.
Throughout his career, Emad has composed for television serials, short
advertisements, and films, including the score for Mum’s Guest, directed by
Daryoush Mehrjooee, as well as works with Ebrahim Hatamikia, Ramin
Mohseni, and Sepideh Khosrojah. He was nominated for the World Music
Festival Prize in New York in 2004. His last live performance in Iran was a
benefit concert for the Bam earthquake victims, later released on DVD.
Emad has also composed music theater for Tarabnameh 1, directed by the
acclaimed Iranian writer and director Bahram Beyzaie, performed at Stanford
University. In 2006, he moved to the United States, where he continued to
innovate in Fusion Music, performing at venues such as Yoshi's Jazz Club, Red
Poppy Art House, Club Fox, Central Stage, and the Palace of Fine Arts.
In 2025, Emad won the Best Fusion Music award at the International
Music Awards in Los Angeles, cementing his status as a pioneering voice
in contemporary world and fusion music.
https://www.emadbonakdar.com/