Iranian pop singer Googoosh probably knew exactly how much of an uproar her new song, “Behesht” (Heaven) would cause, which makes it even more remarkable that she went ahead and released it.
The video for the love ballad depicts a couple in love, but you never see the second partner until the very end. Surprise twist: they’re lesbians! Not-surprising twist: anti-gay Iranians, of which there are sadly many, are freaking out.
“I know (they say) these feelings should not be, but they are,” the song goes, as the two women clasp hands and the words “Freedom to Love for all” appear on-screen.
It’s a bit of a callback to the famous Australian video. That, too, was a first-person love affair where the gay partner is only revealed at the very end. It’s super-effective.
How about we take this to the next level?
Our newsletter is like a refreshing cocktail (or mocktail) of LGBTQ+ entertainment and pop culture, served up with a side of eye-candy.
One news outlet called it “decadence” and another “obscene” and “hideous.” Gay couples in Iran can be imprisoned for life, or killed.
kernelt
Beautiful! Especially coming from a place that’s often backward as far as tradition and ways of thinking are concern. I wouldn’t say that it is the people entirely, but definitely the regime there. It warm my heart to see an unlikely ally who understand the universal meaning of love and the human condition and who’s willing to stand up for what is right and just. Thanks you Googoosh, you certainly have found a new fan here in the USA.
RayJacksonMs
She is a hero. She put her life in jeopardy to stand up for GLBTs.
ChiChi Man
I LOVE Googoosh. Googoosh was THE biggest Persian singer for decades. She’s basically the Elvis of Iran complete with changing hairdos and fabulous outfits. For her to release a video in support of LGBT people is extraordinary and wonderful.