Founded in Erbil in 1980, Xanzad was the first known all-female rock band in Kurdistan and Iraq. Formed under the leadership of Kurdish musician Wirya Ahmed, the group left its mark on both the music world and society with songs like “Mina My Life Mina,” “Khan Amiry,” and “Hop Zindan.”
Founded in Erbil in 1980, Xanzad went down in history as the first known all-female rock band in Kurdistan and Iraq. Formed under the leadership of Kurdish musician Wirya Ahmed, who began by training young women, the group was at the time the only all-female music ensemble performing in Kurdistan.
With members including lead vocalist Viyan Fiaq and flutist Naska Ezadin, Xanzad made both a musical and social impact with songs like “Mina My Life Mina,” “Khan Amiry,” and “Hop Zindan.” The group recorded for Kirkuk Television and performed at festivals across Iraq.
At a time when artistic activity was restricted under the pressure of the Iran–Iraq War and the Ba’ath regime, Xanzad’s presence in public life was seen as remarkable. The band disbanded not long after: some members went abroad, while others gave up music altogether. Today, very few recordings or images of Xanzad survive.
