Birds That Wanton In The Air

[Amaurote]

To begin with, I'm going to preface this thread with a grovelling apology to Diva, since this post is essentially a request for information rather than an opportunity for debate. Feel free to hijack it, though: it shouldn't be too difficult because this particular aeroplane has no pilot...

Something has been niggling at the back of my mind for the last four days [insert insect-related punchline here], and I can't find identify any references in the News sections of either Yahoo or Google, or, indeed, anywhere else, so I'm hoping one or more of the intelligent and virtuous subscribers to this fair forum can help me.

Here's the context: the US propaganda campaign over Afghanistan changed tack last week and replaced its information offensive with live recordings of native Afghan folk musicians. One of these musicians has been regularly flown over Afghanistan in a US communications plane; the plane broadcasts his live in-flight performances to the people below...

Does anyone recall his name? I'm positive it begins with an "r", but I've lost the reference. It was a fascinating story, and I'd like to research it a little more. The original story was in the Mail on Sunday last weekend, if Zaphro or Villager are reading this.

[Diva]

OH MY G-D! Amaurote's groveling to me!!! Shit! Where's a camera when you need one!?!?!?!?!

Well, my dear, since you always enrich me with your fascinating historical references and classic wit I'm just glad I can return some of the favor in hopefully fullfilling your request!

Does the name Saadiq Fitrat (http://www.ananova.com/news/story/sm_446606.html) sound familiar? I found it in the ever resourceful Ananova (http://www.ananova.com/) web site. [Link included]

I hope this helps!

[Amaurote]

Nahenas, that's right. Diva, you are a dauntless genius, although I must warn you that I'm a notorious sycophant...seriously, many thanks.

It's a beautiful story; probably one of the few good things to come out of 911.

[Diva]

Yes, it is a wonderful story. Once again, you have prevailed. I would probably never have known about this gentleman and the significance of his music if it weren't for you. Thanks again.

For the people reading, The Taliban banned Afghani music when they took over about eight years ago. This is relitively the first time they were able to hear their own music, which was broadcast from a plane overhead.

What did I miss, Am?