Grammys: Jill Biden Honors Iranian Singer With Inaugural Song for Social Change Special Merit Award After Viral Video
Dr. Jill Biden is making a sparkling appearance at the 2023 Grammys!
The 71-year-old First Lady made an appearance at the awards show on Sunday (February 5) at the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles.
While on stage, the First Lady honored Iranian singer and songwriter Shervin Hajipour for his song “Baraye,” an anthem of the protests in Iran, while recognizing songs that address social change.
“A song can unite, inspire, and ultimately change the world,” the First Lady started. “Beginning this year, the Recording Academy is presenting a new award recognizing a song that responds to the social issues of our time and has the potential for positive global impact.
He received the honor for his hit “Baraye,” a protest song he wrote that became an anthem of protests across Iran as people longed for change. Biden said a video of the song that appeared on his Instagram was viewed more than 40 million times in less than 48 hours. She added, “This song became the anthem of the Mahsa Amini protests, a powerful and poetic poem for freedom and women’s rights.”
Shortly after the song went viral in 2022, Hajipour was arrested by the Ministry of Intelligence. He is currently released on bail as he awaits trial.
“This song continues to resonate around the world with its powerful theme – women like freedom,” Biden concluded. “Congratulations Shervin and thank you for your song.”
