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Sargon Rasho

Oct. 12

Sargon Rasho, 1949-2024

Sargon Rasho was born to Rebecca and Mikhail Rasho on August 28, 1949, in Habbaniya, Iraq. In 1969, he began composing music and lyrics, both for himself and for other singers. He studied engineering at the University of Baghdad before moving to the United States in 1973, where he performed at parties and weddings. Over time, Sargon recorded more than 20 records, tapes, and CDs, with most of the songs and melodies being his original work.

Most popular albums of Sargon Rasho include his debut album Mashkhutawen (“Migrating”) released in 1982, which was the only album he released on Vinyl LP; Se Makha (“Get Out of Here”), released in 1983; and Libbi Libbi, released in 1986. On October 3, 2024, Sargon passed away after a prolonged illness, he is survived by his brothers Zarya, Rabi Sankhiro, and Ashour, as well as his sisters Helen, Evelyn, and many other relatives.

Sargon’s service was held in October at Saint Peter’s Church in Arizona. Sargon Rasho’s contributions to the Assyrian community through his music were both culturally impactful and adored, as his unique voice and lyrics captured the Assyrian experience with themes of love, humor, and Assyrianism. His song Mashkhutawen (“Migrating”), written by Emmanuel Solomon, for example, became an anthem for many Assyrians facing diaspora that reflected their pain and hope as they left their homeland and wandered into the West.

The Assyrian Cultural Foundation is devastated by the loss of Sargon Rasho whose music and legacy have touched the lives of many Assyrians around the world. His contributions to Assyrian culture will be remembered and cherished for generations to come.

Bibliography
Nirari, Ninos. “Qala Mhadyana.” Facebook, shared by Assyrian Cultural Foundation, 12 Oct. 2024, https://www.facebook.com/ninos.nirari/videos/1069517777547264/
Qeenatha [@qeenatha]. Photo of Sargon Rasho. Instagram. 5 Oct. 2024, https://www.instagram.com/qeenatha/p/DAu6uXrTUZv/
Zeitoune, Abboud. Music Pearls of Beth-Nahrin: An Assyrian / Syriac Discography. Assyrische Demokratische Organisation, 2007.