Interview with Producer Cyrus Saidi; Live for Liberty Charity Concert, Artist Management, Nancy Pelosi & More!
I had the opportunity to speak with Producer / Director / Creative and Artist Manager, Cyrus Saidi. We touched on a recent event he was behind that was hosted in Los Angeles, the ‘Live for Liberty’ charity concert in support of the “Woman, Life, Freedom” movement of Iran, his attendance of the Feminist Majority Foundation’s event honoring Speaker Emirata Nancy Pelosi, as well as his experience on the film and television side of entertainment. Cyrus took me behind the details of his career journey and current work, keep reading to find out more.
Cyrus, I would love to know more about your recent event, “Live for Liberty,” the charity concert that was held in LA. What was the goal and mission behind that event?
The goal of producing this event was to raise awareness for the continuous pursuit of freedom for the Iranian people. It is extremely important for those living outside of the country and in democratic nations, to keep the voice of freedom alive, for inside Iran, such voices are frequently extinguished.
You had some amazing speakers and performers attend the event, I’d love to know more about some of the individuals and their respective work?
We were blessed to have the support of some of Iran’s most distinguished musicians, as well as activists, politicians and actors. EBI, arguably one of the greatest Iranian musical acts ever, agreed to perform pro bono! Other legendary artists such as Faramarz Aslani, Leila Fourhahr, were joined by the younger voices representing the new generation, such as Erfan, Shahin Najafi etc.
We saw that the Crown Prince of Iran was in attendance at “Live for Liberty,” and provided a speech for attendees. Can you tell us more about what he discussed and the significance of having him there?
We were grateful to have him attend and give the closing speech. He discussed the importance of democracy, secularism, and the importance of having respect for others’ beliefs, inclusivity and ensuring all voices are heard. I think his offer to volunteer his time and be present was significant because it showcased how well our team positioned ‘Live for Liberty’ for notoriety from its very first inaugural event.
You recently attended the Feminist Majority Foundation’s event honoring Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi, for her tireless advocacy for women’s equality and the rights and freedoms of women worldwide. What was it like to connect with her and attend the event in support?
It was an honor to meet such an incredible person in US politics, and to see her celebrated for her lifetime of tireless work in protecting women’s rights and so much more. Iranian actress and activist Nazanin Bonyadi was also honored with an award, which was heartwarming to see, as she has worked so incredibly hard for the cause of women’s rights, especially those living under the most brutal of regimes such as in Iran and Afghanistan.
Beyond your advocacy work, you’re also an established producer and director. What were some of your inspirations for projects like Kerli: Shadow Works and What We Started?
I have been an artist manager for over 15 years, but I am also a film nerd, so it is only natural to try and marry the two and capture some aspects of this behind the scenes experience through the lens. In What We Started, a film about the history and culture of electronic music, I had the honor of working with great artists such as Carl Cox, Martin Garrix, Tiesto, David Guetta, Ed Sheeran, Usher, Moby… and to be able to shed light on a highly misunderstood music scene. In Kerli: Shadow Works, we focus on one specific artist, and tell the story of the challenges of making her first independent album. Kerli is Estonia’s biggest musical star, and an incredible woman and force of nature!
I’d love to know what you have in the works, what can we look forward to seeing from you and your career in the future?
I am honored and humbled to be working with incredible artists who are always churning out new works, and to be a helping hand in bringing their visions to life. Beside planning several international events, I am at the completion stages of a beautiful film for one client (Curry Tian) and at the early stages of developing a 2nd studio album for one of my dearest friends, and long time client Josh Cumbee.
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Thanks for reading! Keep up with Cyrus’ work via his website, and IMDb.
