Ahmad Fanoos

Ahmad Fanoos is a celebrated Afghan vocalist and harmonium player recognized both in Afghanistan and internationally. Known for his rich ghazal style singing—a traditional poetic form—and his progressive cultural influence, he gained widespread fame as a judge on the popular Afghan Star TV show, which spotlighted young Afghan musical talent and contributed to bridging ethnic and gender divides across the country. Over his career, Fanoos has headlined numerous concerts in Afghanistan, Pakistan, India, and Russia, earning prestigious awards such as the Best Artist Award in Afghanistan (2008) and the Golden Voice Award in Dubai (2012).

Because of his prominence and progressive stance, Fanoos faced life-threatening dangers under Taliban rule, forcing him to flee Afghanistan in 2021 during the US withdrawal. Now based in the United States, he performs alongside his two sons, Elham and Mehran Fanoos, in the "Fanoos Ensemble." This family group preserves and shares Afghanistan’s rich musical heritage—ranging from ancient Buddhist odes to Sufi ghazals of Rumi, folk songs, and the music of legendary Afghan singer Ahmad Zahir—through a combination of traditional Afghan and Western classical music. Their project, "Heart of Afghanistan," offers audiences a diverse, 360-degree view of Afghan culture, art, and history, keeping its vibrant musical legacy alive beyond Afghanistan’s borders.

Genres