A brand new edition of Roqe featuring a dynamic and compelling powerhouse duo in Iranian popular music. Iranian-American singer Sara Naeini and Iranian-American composer, producer, and pianist Reza Rohani join Jian live in the Roqe studio for an in-depth conversation about their music, the viral videos that have taken the internet by storm, and the unique chemistry that fuels their performances both on and off stage. Plus, Jian kicks off the show with an ode to the British band Coldplay, and their Iranian connection, and Pegah and Jian discuss the cultural significance of Mehregan.

Roqe Ep. 342 - Reza Rohani & Sara Naeini, + Ode to Coldplay

An exclusive conversation with iconic Iranian singer and performer Shohreh Solati. Jian Ghomeshi speaks with Shohreh about her remarkable life and legacy — from her early days in Tehran to her status as a pop legend in exile. They discuss her biggest hits, her activism, her influence as an LGBTQI and feminist icon, and her ongoing joy in performing live for new generations.

Also in this episode: full details on Roqe Live 5, happening October 2, 2025, at the Richmond Hill Centre for the Performing Arts.

Roqe Ep. 386 - Shohreh Solati (Exclusive)

On this edition of Roqe, Jian Ghomeshi welcomes Gdaal – the Iranian rapper who has become a defining voice of his generation. In this expansive and all-encompassing conversation, Gdaal speaks with rare candor about his successes and struggles: from competition in the hip hop scene, to frustrations with the industry, to the profound impact of losing his father last year.

He reflects on growing up in Tehran as a 90s kid inspired by Eminem, moving to France in search of freedom, and the paradoxical pull of Iran that continues to shape his music and identity. The conversation also touches on the expectations to be political, the challenges of exile, and the responsibility of being part of the second generation of Persian rap.

Gdaal’s love of hip hop shines through as he discusses his creative journey, his brand new collaboration with Toomaj Salehi, and his upcoming Toronto performance on September 26th at the Queen Elizabeth Theatre.

Note: much of the interview is conducted in Persian, with some parts in English. Non-Farsi speakers may find it less accessible, though most Iranians will follow both languages.

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Roqe Ep. 387 - Gdaal

What happens when a nation goes bankrupt on water?

In this edition of Roqe, Jian opens with a reflection on why “water is the new oil” - the defining resource of the 21st century. He argues that the crisis unfolding in Iran today is not just a local tragedy, but a preview for the world.

Our feature guest is Professor Kaveh Madani, former Deputy Head of Iran’s Department of Environment and current Director of the United Nations University Institute for Water, Environment and Health. In a wide-ranging and candid interview, Kaveh explains why Iran’s water and electricity shortages have reached a tipping point, what this means for ordinary Iranians, and how environmental collapse threatens the very legitimacy of the regime.

This is not only a story about Iran. It is about governance, dignity, and survival — and a warning for all of us.

This episode of Roqe is brought to you in part by iWelcome. Learn more at iwelcome.ca
 or on Instagram @iwelcome.ca

Roqe Ep. 388 - No Water, No Power: Iran’s Harsh New Reality - Kaveh Madani

Jian’s feature guest is Iranian-British fitness instructor and performer Elham Mahrooz (Move Like Ellie). Known for her joyful dance videos and infectious positivity, Ellie joins from London for a thoughtful and wide-ranging conversation about her mission, her cultural identity, and what it means to radiate joy even under pressure.

The episode also opens with a fiery essay — “When the Left Marches with the Mullahs: Remember 1979” — a look at past alliances and their dangerous echoes today.

Plus: news on Roqe Live 5, coming October 2nd at the Richmond Hill Centre for the Performing Arts.

Roqe Ep. 389 - Move Like Ellie, + “The Left and the Mullahs” (essay)

Conversations from, to, and about the Iranian diaspora.

Roqe is hosted by Jian Ghomeshi.

Roqe Ep. 342 - Reza Rohani & Sara Naeini, + Ode to Coldplay

Roqe Media

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