The history of rock music in Azerbaijan is rich and filled with many interesting bands. The genre arrived in the country during the Soviet era, and several rock bands were active at that time in Azerbaijan.
The Eksperiment OK band was the first professional rock band in Azerbaijan during the 1960s-70s. The group was formed by teenagers in 8th grade, and its songs were written by Oktay Kazımov. However, these songs were later sold to the Qaya Group and Flora Kərimova. You can listen to “Bizim Dağlar” by Eksperiment OK by following the link.
Another well-known band was Coldünya, with Temur Nadir as the lead vocalist. Their song “Sehrbaz” made it to the BBC Radio‘s list of the “best foreign songs”, reaching 7th place.
Another popular band from the Soviet era was Yuxu. Formed in Sumqayit, it became the most famous rock band of the 1990s. The band released three studio albums and gained great success. However, the band split when its members Eyvazov and Naghdaliyev moved to Turkey.
The band’s other member, Emin, later formed the Sirr Group in 2004. Other influential groups that contributed to the development of rock music in Azerbaijan include Eskulap (1966) and Khurramids (1969).
In 1987, the Charley ATL group was formed and left a lasting mark in Azerbaijan’s rock history with their unique style. Charley ATL’s favorite song: Körpə
By the 2000s, rock music in Azerbaijan became even more popular. One of the most successful groups of this time was Unformal, who gained attention with their single “Sonsuz Yol” in 2007. The song was well-received not only in Azerbaijan but also in Ukraine, Russia, and Turkey.
In 2014, the Tuborg GreenFest was held in Azerbaijan and became the largest rock festival in the country’s history.
The city of Sumqayit has been a hub for rock bands in Azerbaijan. The 5:59 rock band was formed there in 2011, we currently don’t have information about whether 5:59 is still active. However, you can follow this link to watch their performance at the Rock Festival organized by the Azerbaijan Youth Foundation in Sumqayit.
Other notable groups include Silence Lies Fear, a metal-rock band formed in 2008, and Sumgzeit, another metal group formed in 2013. Unfortunately, many of these groups did not achieve significant success.
“Döngə” is another promising group that emerged in Azerbaijan’s modern rock scene. Formed in 2020 by Farid Mammadov and Narmin Behbudova. Döngə brings a fresh sound by blending rock with electronic elements. Their music offers a new take on the genre, helping to shape the future of Azerbaijan’s rock music.
Despite these challenges, rock music in Azerbaijan continues to evolve and provide fresh, exciting experiences for audiences. New groups keep emerging, showcasing their talent to listeners today.
Let’s admit it, when we think of a rock band in Azerbaijan, the first name that comes to mind is Yuxu. According to rumors, the famous band is planning to return, and we can’t wait to see it happen!
