Xhavit Xhepa (1932-1987)

Xhavit Xhepa is recognized as one of the most talented performers of Albanian folk songs. Xhaviti was born on September 8, 1932 in the rich Xhepa family from Tirana. He was the son of Xani Qeleshexhi, as he was called in the Old Bazaar of Tirana (Ramazan Xhepa) and Gjyle Xhepa, who had three other children: Beqir, Petrit and Liri. In 1940, little Xhavit enrolled in the 7-year school “League of Prizren”, which he completed in 1947. Immediately after completing the school and after the nationalization of private properties, he had to start working to make a living for his family. In 1949, Xhavit Xhepa was admitted to the Pioneer House thanks to the unwavering support of Meji Vejsi. In 1951, he began his military service in Durrës and during 1951-1953, thanks to his musical talent, he became part of the Army Ensemble directed by Gaqo Avrazi. With the orchestra of the ensemble, he sang the first folk songs including “Kënga e kufitari” and “Eja dalladyshe“. After completing his military service, in addition to working at the Puppet Theater, he began working at the Tirana Variety Show as a singer and actor in 1954. During this time, he continued his musical studies at the Artistic High School in Tirana. Next Xhavit Xhepa would become one of the most beloved singers of the Tirana Variety Show, together with Ramazan-Xon Zyberi, Rudolf Stambolla, Anida Take, as well as one of the most beloved actors for children. He collaborated with important figures of folk music such as: Isuf Myzyri, Hamit Sejfedin Vokopola, Mit’hat Stringa, Ali Koçi (Liu i Nushit) and especially with Mustafa Bodin and Muharrem Gurra. His duets with Anida Take and Fitnete Rexha stand out. He recorded 15 songs of slow music from these collaborations. Xhavit Xhepa died suddenly on May 4, 1987 from a cerebral hemorrhage.

“NE TIRANE PO DU ME SHKUE”, by Xhavit Xhepa – YouTube