Azerbaijan has suffered a profound loss in the world of culture with the passing of People's Artist Arif Babayev, a leading figure in mugham art.
Arif Babayev dedicated countless years to advancing Azerbaijani music, preserving the mugham tradition, and fostering new generations of artists.
His remarkable creativity, teaching legacy, and invaluable contributions to the arts will continue to resonate within Azerbaijan's cultural heritage for generations to come.
Born on February 20, 1938, in the village of Sarıhacılı near Agdam, Babayev drew inspiration from legendary musicians such as Seyid Shushinski, Khan Shushinski, and Zulfi Adigozalov, creating his own distinctive performance style. Since 1960, his artistic journey has been closely linked to Baku.
He completed his education at the Azerbaijan State University of Culture and Arts before joining the Azerbaijan State Philharmonic and the Azerbaijan State Opera and Ballet Theater as a soloist.
His musical repertoire includes iconic mugham cycles like "Shur" and "Segah," along with rhythmic mugham pieces like "Arazbari" and "Karabakh Shikestesi," all of which hold particular significance.
Babayev's rendition of the Segah mugham became renowned for its unique and unparalleled style. He was also adored for his exceptional performances of folk songs and tasnifs.
In 1990, Babayev made history by becoming the first ever to be awarded the title of Mugham Professor.
Known for his impeccable stage presence, Arif Babayev's every movement and gesture reflected his deep character and artistic integrity.
His association with the Azerbaijan State Academic Opera and Ballet Theater was pivotal in his growth. As a soloist for many years, he brought unforgettable characters to life, including Majnun and Kerem in Uzeyir Hajibayli's operas "Leyli and Majnun" and "Asli and Kerem," Ashiq Garib in Zulfugar Hajibayli's "Ashiq Garib," Jamal in Shafiqa Akhundova's "Bride Rock," and Shah Ismail in Muslim Magomayev's "Shah Ismail.” His portrayals of these characters captivated audiences and earned great acclaim.
Babayev's portrayal of Majnun remains one of the most significant achievements of his career.
His interpretation of the character instantly became famous and set a high benchmark in the world of opera. His voice, blending Fuzuli's poetry with Uzeyir's music, created a truly exceptional Majnun.
In "Leyli and Majnun," Babayev shared the stage with prominent performers like Rubaba Muradova, Zeynab Khanlarova, Nezaket Mammadova, Gandab Guliyeva, Sakina Ismayilova, and Yagut Abdullayeva.
In "Asli and Kerem," his colleagues included Rubaba Muradova, Zeynab Khanlarova, Nezaket Mammadova, and Resmiye Sadigova. In "Shah Ismail," he performed alongside Gulkhar Hasanova, Gandab Guliyeva, Sakina Ismayilova, and Sahiba Ahmadova.
He frequently shared the stage with Nezaket Mammadova in "Bride Rock" and "Ashiq Garib."
Babayev toured more than 50 countries, proudly sharing Azerbaijani mugham with international audiences. He brought the art form to music lovers across the Americas, Europe, and Asia.
In recognition of his exceptional contributions to the mugham tradition, Arif Babayev's work was highly celebrated by the Azerbaijani state.
He was awarded the Shohrat (Glory), Istiqlal (Independence), and Sharaf (Honor) Orders.
In 2010, Babayev was honored with the prestigious International "Golden Plane Tree" Award established by the Heydar Aliyev Foundation.
To mark his 70th anniversary, the Heydar Aliyev Foundation also published a CD album featuring his recordings and images, reflecting his life and artistic journey.
Arif Babayev's voice, which has withstood the test of time, will continue to move hearts with its depth, grandeur, and uniqueness.
His artistic legacy, dedication to teaching, and contributions to Azerbaijani music will forever remain an integral part of the nation's cultural legacy.
