Ara Kekedjian - Bourj Hammoud Groove

Facts One of the most distinctive voices to emerge from Beirut’s Armenian community: Ara Kekedjian.  From his infectious arrangements, his catchy melody lines to his dapper looks: Born in 1946 in Bourj Hammoud, Lebanon, Ara became a central figure in the Armenian pop scene of the 1960s and 70s. With his mix of Armenian rhythms, hard-hitting drums, funky guitars, and charismatic stage presence, he carved out a bold sound in Estradayin (Armenian) pop rock. Compiled by Habibi Funk in collaboration with Darone Sassounian of Rocky Hill Records (who first introduced many to Armenian sounds with his Silk Road compilation).