What's Playing in Armenia

Updated 12/17

I know, I know! You’ve been dying to know what’s popular on the top 40 charts of Armenian music!!! Right?? Right??!!! Well, here you are. My take on music in Armenia.

Music is interesting here, to say the least. You have the traditional Armenian music played at weddings, parties, etc. that has traditional dances to go with it, and then you have the pop music. I find the pop music particularly interesting (mostly because I really can’t understand the traditional stuff. But more on that later).

I’ve been in country for six months now. When it comes to the music, that means I’ve heard a lot of the same songs over and over again. Below is a sampling of music I’ve heard on the radios and television in Armenia. Some English songs do make it big over here, and I’ve included them as well. I’ll update occasionally, when new songs come out.

Mr. Saxo Beat - Alexandra Stan

Morena - Antonia

Shock Kyzdar -- Beybit Corgan

Sirem Sirem - Tigran Asatryan

Welcome to Armenia – Dalita

(Armenia’s entry for Junior Eurovision 2011)

Loco People (What the Fuck) – Sak Noel
(I've never heard a censored version)

Tesel Em – Tata Simonyan

Im Anune Hayastan (My Name is Armenia) – Inga & Anush

(for Armenia’s 20^th year of independence)

Hayastane Du Es (You Are Armenia) – various artists

(also for Armenia’s 20^th year of independence)

Amenalave Du Es (You are the Best) – Irina

Broken Angel – Arash ft. Helena

We No Speak Americano – Yolanda Be Cool & DCUP

Give Me Everything – Pitbull

Rain Over Me – Pitbull & Marc Anthony

Waka Waka – Shakira

(my PST host sisters would change the lyrics to "this time for Armenia!")

On the Floor – Jennifer Lopez

NOTE: I got the idea for this post from another PCV, John, who highlights the Soundtrack of his Service on his blog (here).
And PCVs, if you have any other suggestions for this lists, leave 'em in a comment!