Mon Jan 20 11:17:51 IST 2025: ## Iranian Singer Tataloo Sentenced to Death for Blasphemy
**Tehran, Iran** – Popular Iranian singer Amir Hossein Maghsoudloo, known as Tataloo, has been sentenced to death on appeal for blasphemy, Iranian media reported Sunday. The Supreme Court overturned a previous five-year prison sentence, instead issuing the death penalty for insulting the Prophet Mohammed. While the verdict is not yet final and can be appealed, it marks a significant escalation in the case against the 37-year-old musician.
Tataloo, known for his blend of rap, pop, and R&B, had been living in Istanbul since 2018 before his deportation to Iran in December 2023. He has been in Iranian custody since then, facing multiple charges including promoting prostitution, disseminating propaganda against the Islamic Republic, and publishing obscene content, resulting in an additional 10-year sentence. Ironically, Tataloo was once courted by conservative politicians seeking to connect with younger Iranians, even meeting with then-president Ebrahim Raisi (who later died). He also previously released a song supporting Iran’s nuclear program. The heavily tattooed singer’s case highlights the ongoing tensions between the Iranian government and its younger, more liberal population.
First Piper 