Sabir Kurdistani, born Sabir Mohammed Ahmed in 1955 in Kirkuk, was a prominent Kurdish singer whose heartfelt songs captured the essence of Kurdish culture. Known for his poignant lyrics, Kurdistani often stated, “Most of my songs have true stories behind them, especially those whose lyrics I wrote myself.”
Kurdistani faced significant adversity early in life, losing his eyesight due to improper medical treatment during childhood. Despite this challenge, he launched his artistic career in 1970, performing for the first time at Imam Qasim School in Kirkuk during a celebration for the establishment of the Kurdistan Students Union. The following year, he recorded his debut piece at Kirkuk Television, marking the beginning of a fruitful journey in music.
Over the years, Kurdistani produced numerous songs, with one of his most renowned tracks being “I’ve Heard Your Name from Afar” (“Le Durawa Nawt Bestum”), based on a poem by Abdullah Peshew. In May 2020, this beloved song was re-released with a new music video, showcasing its enduring popularity.
Sabir Kurdistani was married and the father of three daughters and a son. His contributions to Kurdish music were significant, as he created meaningful art that resonated deeply with listeners. Sadly, he passed away in 2020 due to complications from the coronavirus, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire and uplift the Kurdish community. His songs, rooted in real-life experiences, played a vital role in preserving and sharing Kurdish cultural narratives through the power of music.