Ramesh, born Azar Mohebbi Tehrani on November 13, 1946, in Tehran, was a pioneering Iranian singer renowned for her contributions to Persian pop, jazz, funk, and traditional music. She began her musical journey in 1964 with a performance on Iranian National Radio's "Golha" program, which quickly propelled her to fame. Throughout the 1960s and 1970s, Ramesh became a prominent figure in Iran's vibrant music scene, known for her emotive voice and innovative blending of Western and Persian musical styles.
Among her notable works is the song "River," inspired by the Persian children's story "The Little Black Fish," which became one of her signature pieces. Ramesh was also recognized for her stylish television appearances and collaborations with other Iranian artists, contributing significantly to the country's cultural landscape during that era.
Following the 1979 Iranian Revolution, Ramesh faced restrictions imposed on female performers by the new regime. In protest against the ban on female singers, she chose to leave Iran and eventually settled in Los Angeles. Although she performed occasionally in exile, she largely withdrew from the public eye, maintaining her silence as a form of protest.
Ramesh crossed to the other side on November 30, 2020, in Los Angeles, at the age of 74. Her legacy endures as a symbol of artistic excellence and resistance, inspiring generations of Farsi-speaking musicians and fans worldwide.