Singer · Songwriter · Producer · Sydney
Co-founder of Arian, the band behind “Parvaz” and “Gol-e-Aftabgardoon”. Writing and performing his own songs in Sydney since 2012.
Australian-Iranian singer, songwriter and music producer.
Ali Pahlavan was born in Tehran. In 1999 he co-founded Arian with Payam Salehi, the first post-revolution pop band in Iran in which women and men sang and played together. Its hits “Parvaz” and “Gol-e-Aftabgardoon”, released in 2000, made it the best-selling act of the year.
Over six albums Arian sold more than 5 million records and played more than 400 concerts around the world, and became the first Iranian pop band nominated for a BBC World Music Award.
In 2012 Ali moved to Australia to begin a solo career. His songs have since been recognised by the International Songwriting Competition and the John Lennon Songwriting Contest, and in May 2025 he sang with Chris de Burgh at the Sydney Opera House.
International songwriting awards for Ali's solo work, and honours for the Arian Band.
Concerts, interviews and awards.
“Performing live with Chris de Burgh at the Sydney Opera House on 8 May was truly a dream come true. Sharing the stage with one of the most iconic voices in music history, in such an iconic venue, was an unforgettable moment in my career.
Read the storySongs recognised by the International Songwriting Competition and the John Lennon Songwriting Contest.
Ali's most-streamed solo song. Lyrics by Yavar Fallahi.
A solo single recognised by two international competitions.
ISC 2023 Honorable Mention · John Lennon Contest finalist
Solo single.
ISC 2018 People's Voice Prize
Ali co-founded Arian with Payam Salehi in Tehran in 1999. The band's debut, Gol-e-Aftabgardoon, was the best-selling album in Iran in 2000. The band's story, albums and concerts live on its own website.
No new dates have been announced yet. Follow on Instagram for announcements, or get in touch about bookings.