Rehman Memmedli

Rehman Memmedli has achieved cult status among connoisseurs of the electric guitar. The way he plays the “Azerbaijani Gitara” defies any conventional categorization. It sounds as if the Beach Boys met up with local virtuosos at the Caspian Sea to play mugham – a dazzling synthesis of nostalgia, wanderlust, and musical magic.

In Azerbaijan, the electric guitar became a symbol for cultural open-mindedness early on. From the optimism of the early 20th century to the Soviet era, the instrument served as a medium on which local traditions and global influences could meet and interlock. Memmedli, born 1961 in the Fuzuli District of the Karabakh Region, grew up in this vibrant sonic landscape. After initially being taught to play the accordion, he discovered the guitar at an early age and became a member of the legendary Karabakh Ensemble while still young.

Following a creative break, Memmedli continued to develop his own signature approach to playing and released several solo albums in the 1990s. Deeply rooted in the Maqām and Ashiq traditions, he was inspired to transfer these musical worlds to the electric guitar. His ability to imitate classical Maqām singers on his instrument earned him the moniker “the man with the singing fingers”.

This evening offers a rare opportunity to experience Rehman Memmedli live in Europe. Joined by his son Tural on the keyboard and Elshad Abdulrahimov on drums, he takes the audience on an authentic journey to the musical soul of Azerbaijan, playfully transcending the boundaries between tradition and modernity.

Rehman Memmedli – Gitarre

Tural Mammadli – Keyboards

Elshad Abdulrahimov – Perkussion