Janan Sawa (born March 18, 1956) () is an Assyrian musician who is noted for making Assyrian folk dance. Janan started singing in 1972, at the age of 17. Janan has performed throughout the world, and has visited his hometown of Duhok in Iraq on many occasions.
Biography In 1975, Janan's father forced him to marry. He spent 4 years in the Iraqi Army, from 1974 to 1978. In 1980, Janan fled Iraq shortly after Saddam came into power and settled in Greece for 2 years. He finally left for the United States in 1982, where he remains a resident. After arriving in the U.S., Janan worked as a taxicab driver for 2 years. In 1984, he was hired by a restaurant to sing on a nightly basis. In 1985, he recorded his first studio album, named "Beth Nohadra", the Assyrian name for his hometown, Dohuk. The album ultimately established his professional singing career, and until this date Janan has released over 25 albums and recorded close to 200 songs.
During his time in Dohuk, Janan would sing on regular occasions such as picnics and family events. Janan has also appeared and performed live on music television programs in Iraq.
Style Janan's musical style is influenced by Assyrian village folklore.
Personal life Janan has married three times and has since been divorced. He has two daughters with his two of his ex-wives. He got engaged in 2018 and he currently resides in Michigan. His brother, Esam Sawa, is also a singer.
Discography 1985 - Nohadra 1986 - Tamboree 1986 - Zamareh 1987 - Yema 1988 - Sayada 1989 - Jwanka D'Hakkari 1990 - Lawando 1991 - Kirkuk 1992 - Ana Ewan Beth Nahrin 1993 - Zowaa 1994 - Kha B'Nisan 1995 - Shara D'Ninwahyeh 1996 - Mix of Janan Sawa 1997 - Nahrin 1998 - Broony 2001 - Shtwaher Ya Yema 2002 - Bderen L'Nohadra 2002 - Lenwa Ana 2004 - Qinate Min Atra 2005 - Hekle Tlekhe 2006 - Zorna Dahola 2006 - Kholma Sharira 2008 - Ishtar 2011 - Zamrin B'Khobakh 2012 - Atta 2013 - Bayenna
External links Songs of Assyria Qeenatha: Janan Sawa Phoenix Production: Janan Sawa
References