Karapetê Xaço

Karapetê Xaço (also spelled Karapetê Xaco; born 1908 in Armenia, died 2005 in Yerevan) was a prominent Kurdish singer and musician, known for his contributions to the preservation and popularization of traditional Kurdish folk songs. He is considered one of the most important figures in 20th-century Kurdish musical history, particularly in Armenia and the broader Kurdish diaspora.

Xaço’s work centered on collecting, arranging, and performing Kurdish folk songs, preserving a rich oral tradition passed down through generations. He often sang about themes of love, longing, nature, and historical events related to the Kurdish people. His performances were characterized by his powerful vocals and his skillful use of traditional Kurdish instruments, such as the duduk and tembûr.

His music gained significant popularity throughout the Soviet Union, particularly among Kurdish communities in Armenia, Georgia, and other republics. Xaço's performances helped to foster a sense of cultural identity and pride among Kurds living within the Soviet Union, especially during a period when Kurdish language and culture faced suppression in other regions.

He recorded numerous albums and performed extensively, both domestically and internationally. His legacy continues to inspire Kurdish musicians and artists today, and his recordings remain a valuable archive of traditional Kurdish music. He was awarded several honors and accolades for his contributions to Kurdish culture and art.