The Clash released the 1982 hit "Rock The Casbah", which became the biggest U.S. hit for the British punk band, and naturally had everyone trying to figure out what the song was about. Some thought it was about something "pornographic", but soon it became obvious that it was about something that better fits the band's punk rock image—fighting against musical persecution. In fact, specifically, it was an anthem centered around the persecution of the Iranian people for enjoying music, particularly for owning a disco album at the time. With the Islamic Regime in power since 1979, you could get lashed for owning any western music, which the regime felt was anti-Islam. Did you know the meaning behind this song?

And today, there is still an official ban on Western music and "un-Islamic" music in Iran, though it exists alongside a thriving underground scene and widespread consumption through bootleg and digital means. While classical and some pop music are permitted, Western music, particularly rock, metal, and rap, is technically illegal and requires permission from the Ministry of Culture and Islamic Guidance to be performed or sold. One more way the Islamic Regime controls the people -- through their music. Hopefully all this will soon change for the better. Do you support the Iranian people in their 47 year fight for freedom and human rights?