Unmasking Misconceptions: The Truth Behind Hichkas’ Role in Persian Rap

Honoring Pioneers and Setting the Record Straight

4 min readApr 4, 2024

I. Introduction

In the vibrant world of Persian rap, where creativity and authenticity reign supreme, it’s imperative to shed light on the historical inaccuracies and misrepresentations that have clouded the contributions of pioneers. Addressing these misconceptions not only upholds the integrity of Iranian hip-hop but also ensures that credit is given where it’s due.

An image featuring two panels: on the right, Shayan, and on the left, Hichkas, both depicted throwing their versions of ‘021,’ symbolizing the divergent perspectives on their contributions to Iranian hip-hop culture. Shayan, recognized as the pioneer of Persian rap, is portrayed with his distinct style and influence, while Hichkas, often hailed as the ‘Father of Persian Rap,’ stands alongside, prompting a critical examination of historical accuracy and ethical implications within the Iranian rap — Shayan and Hichkas symbolize contrasting narratives in Iranian hip-hop, highlighting the importance of addressing historical inaccuracies and recognizing pioneer contributions.

II. The First Iranian Rapper: Debunking the Myth

A. Shayan: The True Trailblazer

Shayan stands as the undeniable pioneer of Persian rap, with evidence highlighting his pivotal role in shaping the early landscape of Iranian hip-hop. Renowned Iranian rappers such as Reza Pishro and Yas have testified to Shayan’s influence, emphasizing his status as the first Iranian rapper. Pishro’s acknowledgment of Shayan’s impact on his own career⁽¹⁾, Yas’s recounting of witnessing Shayan’s early performances⁽²⁾, and Ho3ein’s decision to cover his song⁽³⁾ serve as a testament to the enduring impact of Shayan’s music and influence on subsequent generations of Persian rappers, further underscoring the significance of Shayan’s contributions.

B. Hichkas’ Role

Examining the Facts Contrary to popular belief, Hichkas’s claim as the “Father of Persian Rap” is not supported by historical evidence.⁽⁴⁾ Despite acknowledging Shayan and Yashar’s presence at the inception of his career,⁽⁵⁾⁽⁶⁾ Hichkas fails to give them the recognition they deserve. Shayan’s influence on Hichkas’ early works, including the use of similar concepts and phrases, further emphasizes the debt owed to the true pioneers of Persian rap.

An image of Shayan standing proudly, symbolizing his role as the first Iranian rapper and his influential impact on subsequent generations of Persian rappers, including Yas, Reza Pishro, and Ho3ein. Shayan’s pioneering contributions to Persian rap culture are highlighted, emphasizing his significance in shaping the early landscape of Iranian hip-hop. — Shayan, the first Iranian rapper, has had a profound influence on major Iranian hip-hop artists such as Pishro, Yas, Hichkas, and Ho3ein.

III. The Genesis of “021”: Separating Fact from Fiction

A. Shayan’s Association with “021”

The term “021” holds significant cultural and regional significance within Persian rap, with its origins traced back to Shayan’s early works.⁽⁷⁾ Collaborations with Yashar and the formation of the Barobax 021 group solidified the association of “021” with Shayan’s rap collective, predating Hichkas’s claims to the term.⁽⁸⁾

B. Hichkas’ Appropriation of “021”

Despite Hichkas’s later adoption of the “021” label, the true origins of the term lie in Shayan’s pioneering efforts. Hichkas’s failure to acknowledge Shayan’s role in popularizing “021” exemplifies a larger pattern of misrepresentation and lack of respect for Persian rap pioneers.⁽⁷⁾

IV. Respecting the Roots: Why Pioneer Recognition Matters

The ethical imperative of giving credit to hip-hop pioneers extends beyond mere acknowledgment; it serves as a testament to the cultural and artistic integrity of the community. Drawing parallels to international examples, such as Tupac Shakur’s reverence for older artists, underscores the importance of recognizing the foundational contributions of trailblazers like Shayan.

V. Confronting Ethical Dilemmas: Holding Hichkas Accountable

A. Analyzing Hichkas’ Ethical Missteps

Hichkas’s misrepresentation of Shayan’s influence and apparent plagiarism of concepts and phrases raise significant ethical concerns within the Iranian hip-hop community. By failing to correct misconceptions and acknowledge his inspirations, Hichkas undermines the integrity of Persian rap as a whole.

B. Advocating for Recognition and Respect

Encouraging Hichkas to reflect on his actions and rectify any harm caused is essential for upholding the integrity of Iranian hip-hop. By acknowledging the contributions of pioneers like Shayan and Yashar, Hichkas can demonstrate a commitment to ethical behavior and foster a sense of camaraderie within the rap community.

VI. Conclusion

In conclusion, the imperative of honoring Persian rap pioneers cannot be overstated. By setting the record straight and confronting misconceptions, we pave the way for a more inclusive and respectful hip-hop culture in Iran. It’s time for Hichkas to acknowledge his missteps and give credit where it’s due, ensuring that the legacy of pioneers like Shayan remains untarnished.

References

Interested in uncovering the rich history of Persian rap and the truth behind its origins? Dive into the article “Unveiling the Truth: Hichkas Isn’t the Father of Persian Rap” to explore the fascinating narrative of Iranian hip-hop and the significant contributions of pioneers like Shayan. Discover the ethical considerations and delve into the supporting evidence that challenges common misconceptions. Click here to read more and uncover the truth!