Newroz

Fermin Muguruza's song "Newroz" is a powerful tribute to the Kurdish New Year, celebrated on March 21st, which also marks the arrival of spring. The song intertwines themes of renewal, resistance, and remembrance, reflecting the struggles and resilience of the Kurdish people. The lyrics open with a celebration of the new year and spring, symbolized by the use of fire to honor the sun. This fire, however, also serves as a metaphor for the destruction and suffering experienced by the Kurdish communities, as seen in the lines referencing the burning of villages.

The song poignantly recalls the tragic events of Halabja, a Kurdish town that suffered a devastating chemical attack in 1988, drawing a parallel to the bombing of Gernika during the Spanish Civil War. Muguruza's lyrics emphasize the enduring scars of torture and violence, yet also highlight the unextinguished spirit of the Kurdish people. The imagery of the dawn's light igniting the flames of hope suggests a belief in eventual justice and renewal.

Muguruza also pays homage to the cultural heritage and traditions of the Kurds, mentioning the Kurmanci dialect and the Kommagene region, which symbolizes a place of unity and coexistence. The reference to the "Saturday Mothers," a group of Kurdish women who protest the disappearance of their loved ones, underscores the ongoing struggle for recognition and justice. Through "Newroz," Muguruza not only commemorates the Kurdish New Year but also calls for resilience and solidarity in the face of oppression, urging listeners to remember and honor the past while striving for a brighter future.