As Persian hip-hop steadily claims its space on the global stage, few artists have carried the weight of a movement quite like Koorosh Wantons. With millions of streams, a loyal international fanbase, and an uncompromising artistic vision, Koorosh is more than a musician, he’s a cultural force. In this exclusive Eyes on Hollywood interview, we sit down with the Tehran-born rapper ahead of his historic Los Angeles concert on July 12, 2025. From underground rap roots to collaborating with top producers, Koorosh opens up about authenticity, independence, and the emotional journey that’s shaped his sound—and his soul.
Follow along as we explore the man behind the music and why his voice is resonating louder than ever.
Eyes on Hollywood: Koorosh, your L.A. show is just two months away, set for July 12, 2025. How are you feeling about it?
Koorosh: This ain’t just another show, it’s a message. Performing in L.A. as a Persian Iranian artist means our voice is finally being heard worldwide. It’s the payoff for years of grinding, finding my sound, and staying true to the power of music.
Eyes on Hollywood: You came up in Tehran’s underground rap scene, and now you’re working with big-name producers. How did that shift happen?
Koorosh: It all started with a dream, but it took real hustle and consistency to keep it going. I always tried to make music that could stand next to anything out there, worldwide. Once you’re in the room with top-tier producers like Scott Storch, the bar gets higher you gotta level up. There’s no room for average anymore.
Eyes on Hollywood: Your fan base started in Iran, but now it’s worldwide. How did that growth happen?
Koorosh: Just by keeping it real. I never pretended to be something I’m not. I rapped about my life moving countries, feeling alone, being angry, falling in love. That kind of truth hits people, no matter where they’re from. Emotions speak louder than language.
Eyes on Hollywood: What should fans expect from your upcoming L.A. show?
Koorosh: This isn’t just a regular concert . I’m teaming up with some serious talent top musicians, dope stage designers. It’s gonna be a mix of the tracks people already love and some new unreleased stuff. The visuals, the lighting, the whole vibe it’s all gonna be on an international level.
Eyes on Hollywood: Your sound mixes rap, trap, pop, and even cinematic vibes. How did that come together?
Koorosh: I never boxed myself into one style. For me, it’s all about the feeling. Sometimes the track needs a scream, sometimes just a whisper. That range comes from living through a lot, listening to all kinds of music, and working with producers who aren’t afraid to experiment.
Eyes on Hollywood: You’ve worked with artists outside of Iran. How do they respond to your Persian lyrics and sound?
Koorosh: Most of them are honestly surprised in a good way. When I break down the lyrics, they’re like, “Man, this feels more like poetry than just rap.” That means a lot to me. It proves that Persian has real storytelling power, even on a global stage.
Eyes on Hollywood: You’ve kicked off a world tour. How’s the crowd been reacting?
Koorosh: Way beyond what I expected. From Istanbul to Atlanta, San Francisco to Dubai the crowd’s been a mix of Persian speakers and folks who don’t understand a single word. And that just proves it: music isn’t about language, it’s about energy. If it’s real, people feel it.
Eyes on Hollywood: What’s been the most emotional moment for you on this journey?
Koorosh: After a show in Dubai, a mother and daughter came backstage and told me my music helped them reconnect. That hit deep. It reminded me that music isn’t just about sound it can actually heal people.
Eyes on Hollywood: The global music scene is tough. Why have you chosen to stay independent?
Koorosh: Being independent gives me full creative control. I don’t have to water anything down or fit into someone else’s box. I’ve got a small team that fully gets the vision. I’m not waiting on the industry I’m building my own lane.
Eyes on Hollywood: Have you gotten offers to dive into fashion or film?
Koorosh: Yeah, especially in fashion and film scores. But I only take on things that feel genuine to me. Authenticity is key. Right now, I’m all about the music, but who knows what the future holds.
Eyes on Hollywood: In one sentence, who is Koorosh in 2025?
Koorosh: I’m an independent voice from Tehran, connecting with hearts worldwide through my own language and sound.
