Let freedom sing: Iran's mystery diva.

• Author: Freund, Charles Paul
• Position: Citings - Brief Article

IN IRAN WOMEN are not allowed to sing solo when men are present. But according to the Middle East news site Al Bawaba, "aggravated young Iranians (and there are many...) are tuning nowadays in to a mysterious voice that, according to them, symbolizes the notion of 'freedom.'"

That would be the enigmatic techno-pop diva known as DJ Maryam, whose traditional vocal trembles have been digitally intensified and who has inspired a widespread cult that mixes celebrity and martyrdom. Maryam's myth is that she has been imprisoned after being caught singing at a party. In some versions, the mullahcracy has cut out Maryam's tongue; in others, authorities have pulled out her teeth. Sometimes she has a wealthy father, but no amount of money can free her.

Not so, says DJ Maryam, who was interviewed on BBC Persian radio in October. According to reporter Shahla Azizi, "She...