On this edition of Roqe, Jian Ghomeshi welcomes Gdaal – the Iranian rapper who has become a defining voice of his generation. In this expansive and all-encompassing conversation, Gdaal speaks with rare candor about his successes and struggles: from competition in the hip hop scene, to frustrations with the industry, to the profound impact of losing his father last year.

He reflects on growing up in Tehran as a 90s kid inspired by Eminem, moving to France in search of freedom, and the paradoxical pull of Iran that continues to shape his music and identity. The conversation also touches on the expectations to be political, the challenges of exile, and the responsibility of being part of the second generation of Persian rap.

Gdaal’s love of hip hop shines through as he discusses his creative journey, his brand new collaboration with Toomaj Salehi, and his upcoming Toronto performance on September 26th at the Queen Elizabeth Theatre.

Note: much of the interview is conducted in Persian, with some parts in English. Non-Farsi speakers may find it less accessible, though most Iranians will follow both languages.

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