Afghan songwriter and composer
Memories in Melodies
In the year 1980, I had the honor of being introduced to Mrs. Lila Kasra (Hedieh) in San Francisco by one of my friends residing in her neighborhood.
The songs I collaborated on with her include “Be khiyalam (Tekye Bar Baad)” sung by Dariush, “Ghased,” “Gharibeh” sung by Ebi, “Ineh Donya” with Homeyra’s voice, “Safar” with Moein’s voice, “Dele Ghafel” with the late Vigen’s voice, “Meykhoone,” “Yaarab,” “To Ke Nisti,” and “Ghesseye Man” with the everlasting memories of Hayedeh.
When Lila Kasra (Hedieh) shared the lyrics of “Ghesseye Man” with me, she conveyed that this song held the essence of her life story. Given my awareness of her intense battle with cancer, the deep emotional bond we shared, and her remarkable strength in confronting the relentless adversary of cancer, this heartfelt gift held immeasurable significance in my eyes.
I recall that evening, during which we, in the company of Hayedeh and Lila Kasra, joined Andranik, the meticulous arranger of this song, in the studio as we recorded Hayedeh’s vocals. The ambiance was saturated with emotion, and tears flowed freely.
May her dear soul rest in peace.