Ghawgha’s first LP Qaf: ‘A Journey to Rediscover Home, Identity, and Humanity’
Ghawgha’s first full-length album, Qaf, intertwines the ancient sounds the Rubab, one of Afghanistan’s oldest national instruments, with modern musical arrangements. Released in November 2024, the album reflects the personal and collective experiences of those who have crossed difficult borders in search of a redefined sense of home.
Inspired by an Iranian myth, Qaf weaves a universalnarrative of migration and belonging. It bridges melodies and memories,fostering connections which transcend borders and cultural dividers.
Of her new album Qaf, Ghawgha says:
‘Throughout this journey, I faced the harsh realities of migration and exile. Each piece in the album reflects moments from my travels across Iran, Turkey, Greece, and Afghanistan. These tracks tell stories of loss, hope, and the struggle to redefine identity. Songs like ‘Sing for Me’ and ‘The Boat’ revisit memories and confront hardships. ‘Sing for Me’evokes the longing for home and the sorrow of displacement, while ‘The Boat’narrates the eternal farewells of migrants.’
A well-known musician from Afghanistan famous for her peace songs, Ghawgha was in ICORN residence in the Norwegian town of Harstad, with the support of Safemuse, where she arrived in 2022, following the Taliban’s return to power in 2021. From Norway, Ghawgha continues her artistic work through the release of new music and performances at various events,including the Nobel Peace Prize ceremony in 2023.
To explore insights into the creation and recording of Qaf, visit Ghawgha’s YouTube Channel.
