Sherali Jo`rayev

Sherali Jo`rayev (1947-)

Sherali Jo`rayev was born in Asaka in 1947, but the exact date of his birth is unknown. The singer chose to celebrate his birthday symbolically on April 12, the day when the Russian cosmonaut Yuri Gagarin made his historic space flight. According to the singer, this date holds particular significance for him as he won a cycling competition on April 12 during his student years.

In 1972, Jo`rayev graduated from the Tashkent Theater and Art Institute, followed by completing his studies at the Tashkent State Institute of Arts named after Mannon Uygur in 1976. His two sons, Shohjahon Jo`rayev and Zoirshoh (Zirg`omshoh) Jo`rayev, also chose the path of music. Among his notable students are Halim Jo`rayev, Ilhom Jo`rayev, Shuhrat Davlatov, Rustam Gaipov, Botir Qodirov, Asilbek Amonulloh (Negmatov), Sardor Mamadaliyev, and others.

Throughout his career, Jo`rayev has been associated with various musical groups and institutions such as the Uzbek State Stage (1972-1973), "Shodlik" Song and Dance Ensemble (1972-1979), Andijan Regional Philharmonic (1979-1986), Uzbek State Philharmonic (1986-1996), and "O`zbeknavo" Association (since 1999).

Known for his powerful voice, Jo`rayev's performance style is characterized by monologues and dramatic interpretations. His songs often reflect folk themes with deep philosophical undertones and a profound sense of human emotion. He has a diverse repertoire drawing inspiration from both classical Eastern poets such as Alisher Navoiy and modern poets like Erkin Vohidov.

Over the years, Jo`rayev has written and performed hundreds of songs. Some of his most famous compositions include "Bahor ayyomi" (based on Bobur's poetry), "Birinchi muhabbatim" (by Abdulla Oripov), "Inson qasidasi" (Erkin Vohidov), "Karvon," "Meni kutgil" (Konstantin Simonov), "Oshiqlar sardori" (Rasul Hamzatov), "O`zbegim" (Erkin Vohidov), and "O`xshamas" (inspired by Alisher Navoiy).

In 2005, Jo`rayev's song "O`zbegim" was featured in the "Rough Guide to the Music of Central Asia" album released by World Music Network. His international presence was further highlighted in 2004 when British Ambassador Craig Murray invited him to perform at an event celebrating Queen Elizabeth II's 78th birthday in Tashkent.

A prolific songwriter, Jo`rayev often composes the music for his songs, including famous tracks like "Birinchi muhabbatim," "O`zbegim," "Karvon," "Achchiq haqiqat," "Yaralgan," "Oshiqlar sardori," "Inson qasidasi," and more. He has also penned lyrics for several songs such as "Bobo Dehqon," "Zamon," "Qarashlarga," "Ona Turkiston," and others.

Outside of music, Jo'rayev ventured into filmmaking by creating the film-essay titled "Bir ulug' el bor jahonda" dedicated to his artistic legacy. He has also served as a member of the Uzbekistan Supreme Assembly from 1990 to 1995.

Sherali Jo'rayev Songs:

• Achchiq haqiqat
• Amir Temur
• Asta-asta
• Ayol
• Bandaman
• Birinchi muhabbatim
• Davrani kengroq oling
• Egasi bor yurt
• Ey jon
• Gulandon
• Karvon
• Meni kutgil
• Ona
• Oppoq kiyim
• Oshiq bo'ldim
• Quyosh o'lkasi
• Sanamjon
• Sohibqiron
• Yoshligim
• Zuhro yulduz kabi