Shehzad Roy, whose satirical video for 'Laga Reh' off his newly released album Qismat Apney Haat Mein is the talk of town for the rather accurate depiction of the issues facing Pakistan today, was seen on Geo TV's popular talk show, Capital Talk. While the show normally centers on political figures, Shehzad is apparently the first singer to be invited on the show. The show's theme was also based on the album, and was called 'Le lo qismat apney haat mein' (Take control of your destiny). Politicians Imran Khan (who also did a promo for Shehzad's video) and Qamar Zaira Khan were the other guests on the show, who were asked by Capital Talk host Hamid Mir to give their opinions on the various aspects highlighted in the video.
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SOURCE: www.pakmusic.net
Pakistani actor Fawad Khan may only be one film old, but the success of his maiden venture Khuda Kay Liye both at home and abroad has opened up many avenues for the young debutant including Bollywood.
You have seen him as Sarmad, the young musician turned radical in Khuda Kay Liye and now news has it that this Pakistani actor is soon set to make his Bollywood debut in Vivek Agnihotri's Freedomfor Anil Ambani's, Reliance Big Entertainment.
"It was a very exciting and thrilling part of Khuda Kay Liye and the issues that it addressed to, they were very appropriate for the time. And that's what made the film even bigger than what is or could have been. I think it's been an honour, especially to have represented Pakistan on an international scale. It's been an over whelming response," says Fawad.
"Things have been good. Yes, I have received offers but nothing as such is penned down yet. I definitely appreciate that my fans are waiting for me to appear in a venture across the border as well, but nothing is as finalised yet. And I think it would be more adequate to comment about it when something does materialise and comes down into a finalised form," he adds.
With Fawad not wanting to divulge any more details about his offers from across the border, we thought it was time to quiz him about some of his Bollywood favourites including the actresses he'd like to work with.
"Again the actresses are all very pretty, very beautiful and amazing performers. And if by any chance, I ever get to step into the industry, I definitely would not want to put one off from the other. So they are all very good in their own places. But yes I'd like to mark down a few that I've really enjoyed watching. I think there's Smita Patel, there's Shabana Azmi. And from the modern performers, I think anyone and everyone is a favourite Aishwariya Rai, Bipasha Basu, the list just keeps going on and on," exclaimed Fawad.
As for Bollywood music, he finds Vishal Bhardwaj as a favourite. "I believe he's a song writer whose done music for quite a few films recently. He's also directed one of my favourite films Omkara. His song from the same film O saathi re would be one of my favourite songs," he added.
On that note we asked this Vishal Bhardwaj fan, who was once lead singer of the now disbanded music group Entity Paradigm if he would consider returning to a career in music in the future.
"I'm in love with performing arts. When it comes to music, it's is a passion that I've always had and I would like to continue that in the future. But for right now I'd like to focus on something that is in front of you. Yes in the future, we can both expect something to come up and I would love for my fans to gobble that up as well but for now let's just see how the film ground goes," said the multi-talented actor.
Gurprinder Singh Sodhi, father of 20-year-old Ishmeet, said at their home in Ludhiana that the event management company, which took his son to the Maldives, informed him at around 2000 hours that the singer had died due to drowning in the swimming pool of the hotel where he was staying.
The second year Bachelor of Commerce student of MNC College, Mumbai, had gone to the pool for frolicking, but fell into its deep end leading to his drowning, agencies reported, quoting a hotel official.
Sodhi told media persons that they were surprised that their son had died due to drowning in the swimming pool.
"He had never swam before us and we are not aware whether he could swim or not," an inconsolable father said.
"Television channels announced his death at around 2100 hours, the time when were expecting to see Ishmeet perform for the first time in the Maldives," Sodhi said.
He said Ishmeet had left Ludhiana on Monday for Chandigarh from where he went to Mumbai on way to the Maldives.A pall of gloom descended on the house of the singer in Ludhiana immediately after the news of his death reached.
Ishmeet's mother Amritpal Kaur was in a state of shock and so was his sister.
A large number of people gathered at the small house of Ishmeet in Shastri Nagar locality of the industrial town. All roads leading to his house from various adjoining localities, including Model Town and Pakhowal Road were choked with vehicles and people trying to reach the singer's house.
Ishmeet was doing a course in Architecture in Amritsar before he shifted to Mumbai last year after he won the Voice of India singing contest.
Sodhi said the event management company had informed the family that the body was expected to be brought to India on Wednesday. The cremation would be performed in Ludhiana.
Ishmeet's death plunged the music world into mourning and leading playback singers Lata Mangeshkar and Abhijeet and Shaan expressed shock at the incident.
"I was very happy when he won the Voice of India contest. Such a fate to befall one at such a young age -- I have no words to express my feelings," said Lata.
She said Ishmeet had an original voice and did not imitate anyone.
Abhijeet, who was one of the jury members for Voice of India contest, said he was like a mentor for Ishmeet. Abhijeet said he recognised the talent in Ishmeet and other jury members used to accuse him of favouring him.
Shaan said he was shocked at learning the news of Ishmeet's death.
Punjab Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal said the country had lost a 'gem' and a 'void had been created in the music world that would be hard to fill'.
Download Atif Aslam's Aadat vs Rock The Party MP3 Song (Exclusive)
DOWNLOAD:
Aadat_Vs_Rock_The_Party(musikpakistan.blogspot.com).mp3
Download Zeb & Haniya's Debut Album Chup High Quality 320 KBPS Rate.
Here Are the Links Below:
01_-_Chup.mp3
02_-_Rona_Chor_Diya.mp3
03_-_Kabhi_Na_Kabhi.mp3
04_-_Paimana_Bitte_(Pashto-Darri).mp3
05_-_Kahaan.mp3
06_-_Chal_Diye.mp3
07_-_Ahaan.mp3
08_-_Seh_Na_Sakay.mp3
09_-_Aitebar.mp3
10_-_Ban_Key_Touri_Jogan.mp3
SOURCE: allpakmusic.blogspot.com
SONG LIST:
01 - Ek Baar
02 - Khul Kay Piyaar
03 - Qismat Apney Haat Mein
04 - Laga Reh
05 - Aankhien
06 - Quaid-E-Azam
07 - Zindagi Feat.Abida Parveen
08 - Janay Kahan
09 - Darwaza
10 - Baro Chal Tribute To Mai Bhagee
11 - Aankhien (Violoncello Version
From Saali to Juvenile Jail
The second coming of Shehzad Roy
There is a point when careers take a U-turn, well some at least. People change gears and make a turn and head in the opposite direction of what they are known for. With his new album Qismat Apnay Haath Mein, Shehzad Roy does exactly that. The album was launched yesterday at the Juvenile Jail that is a complex within Karachi Central Jail
itself. And having been afforded a preview of the album by the star, Instep can see why that makes sense.
This is Shehzad Roy more political than he has ever been. Gone is the lover boy singing ballads, his album that the holler of a Pakistani man wondering what went wrong with us and why? It is hard hitting, yet fun and tongue in cheek. The video of 'Laga Re' that is on air now, marks a new image for Shehzad and is a magnificent comeback vehicle for director Ahsan Rahim.
Watch out for more on the launch and Shehzad Roy's new avtar in the coming week. With this one, Shehzad will sneak up and win both your hearts and minds. We're predicting this to be the surprise hit of the year, so do check it out.
WATCH THE NEW EXCLUSIVE VIDEO OF SHEHZAD ROY'S NEW ALBUM QISMAT APNE HATH MEIN 'LAGA REH'.
Jhumka Jaan(OST) by Rahat Fateh Ali Khan
Experience the third episode of Coke Studio with Ali Zafar, Saeen Tufail Ahmed and Sajid & Zeeshan.
Artists: Ali Zafar, Saeen Tufail Ahmed and Sajid & Zeeshan
Drums: Gumby
Lead Guitar: Omran Shafique
Bass Guitar: Mannu
DJ, Keyboard: Zeeshan Parwez
Backing Vocals: Saba and Selina
Percussionist: Shezi
Dholak: Babar Khanna
Balochi Percussions: The Abdul Latif Band
Producer: Rohail Hyatt
Videos and Audios
Janay Na Koi
Ali Zafar
My Happiness
Sajid & Zeeshan
Chal Dil Meray
Ali Zafar
Channo
Ali Zafar
Rangeen
Ali Zafar
Allah Hu
Ali Zafar & Tufail Ahmed
As a judge of a reality music show, he recently gave poor marks to a contestant who sang an Atif Aslam song, saying the Pakistani singer was "besura". It's another story that all of Atif's songs have been chart-busters, and it's really been a while since Abhijeet himself had a hit number!
Now, Abhijeet is out of the show Ek Se Badhkar Ek on Zee TV after he refused to vote for Pakistani singer Mussarrat, a contestant on the show.
"Why should we promote Pakistani talent, when there is so much of good talent in our country? It is sad that the organisers threw out an Indian to accommodate a Pakistani who is a non-entity," said Abhijeet.
At a time, when genuine efforts are being made to encourage cross-border cultural exchange and friendship, Abhijeet is in a mood for stirring trouble.
"I want to ask Raj Thackeray, he is against north Indians, so why doesn't he take up this issue of Pakistanis seeking employment in India," Abhijeet is reported to have said.
Tch, tch. It's sad that Abhijeet, who considers himself an authority on music, does not believe that music is universal and knows no borders.
The big five
From bluesy, pop debuts to rock galore, the second half of 2008 is promising to be an even bigger bang. As the newcomers and giants of the music industry gear up for album releases, Instep gives you the five albums to watch out for this year!
By Maheen Sabeeh
Artist: Ali Azmat
Album: Klashinfolk
Release: September 2008
If the first half of 2008 was made excited by Strings and their return with Koi Aanay Wala Hai, the second half belongs to Ali Azmat.
In 2005 he stunned some of the harshest critics of Junoon with his solo record, Social Circus.
But if Social Circus was about introversion, Klashinfolk is about extroverted side of life.
Recorded at Mekaal Hasan's Digital Infidelity studio, the album sees Ali Azmat don the role of producer, singer and songwriter for a second time.
Composition credits belong to Ali while he has jolted some of the lyrics himself with a few others with noted lyricist Sabir Zafar.
As for the sound, it really is a 360 degree turn for Ali. Having heard a few ditties such as 'Sawaal', 'Gallan' and 'Balaman', it is clear that the electronic wizardry, one first heard on Social Circus, has disappeared altogether.
And this time Ali Azmat has attempted an edgier and raw sound.
The influences range from Steely Dan to Coldplay and Radiohead among many others.
"I call it urban folk music," explained Ali Azmat while speaking on his hotly-anticipated new album. "The name Klashinfolk is not just inspired from the gun culture we live in but the general chaos and the uncertainty that surrounds us," concluded Ali.
While one driving force behind Social Circus were the synthesized sounds, on Klashinfolk it is all about live music.
"We rehearsed and then played the album out and it took us three days to do it. It is a live album and nothing like Social Circus," clarified Ali about the sound.
Another interesting development on Klashinfolk is the line-up it includes. Other than Ali Azmat, the players on Klashinfolk include Omran Shafique on guitars, Kamran Zafar aka Manu on bass guitars and lord of drums himself Gumby.
With two videos, one with Zeeshan Parwez and another shot in India, Ali is looking at September as his release. And we can bet, Klashinfolk will be as unpredictable a record as the man behind it.
Artist: Shafqat Amanat Ali Khan
Album: Untitled
Release: September 2008
The last time we heard Shafqat, he was singing the tunes of Ramchand Pakistani and proving yet again that when it comes to vocal magic, he is unbeatable.
Post-Fuzon, there have been a number of stories about what Shafqat will be doing. So for the record, the big man with the bigger voice is not doing an album with Rohail Hyatt and neither is he planning on releasing a Sufi album.
Shafqat is picking up from where Fuzon left off. But he promises that it won't be another Saagar. It'll be different and hopefully better.
In between offers from Bollywood, Shafqat has been wrapping up his solo album and he will wear the hat of singer, lyricist and songwriter on the album.
"I haven't decided on a name yet but I am definitely looking to release my album in September 2008," Shafqat confirmed to Instep.
Even though the album is being backed by an Indian record label, Shafqat is still working with musicians from this side of the border, to make sure that the signature Bollywood sound doesn't creep in from the side.
Shafqat has revealed that even though most of the album will be sequenced, the live sound has contributions from Imran Akhund, famous for collaborations with Shehzad Roy, plays the guitars while Sajid is on flute and Shani takes on the role of the producer.
"I was planning a Sufic album but as I went along, I realized that it was something else so I won't call it a Sufi album," explained Shafqat.
As for the sound, it'll tip towards the softer, mellow side with concentration on melodies.
Here's one solo effort that'll definitely be something. With Shafqat's classical background and understanding of the reach of pop, this record will be one hell of a listen!
Artist: Kaavish
Album: Gunkali
Release: 2008
The three youngsters from Kaavish, Jaffer Zaidi, Maaz Maudood and Raheel, first shot to the limelight with their beautiful single, 'Bachpan' and since then there has been no looking back for this trio.
Now in 2008 we will finally see Kaavish release their debut record, Gunkali. For those unaware of the meaning of their title, it refers to a morning raag, which Kaavish interpret as a beginning for them. Their name Kaavish meanwhile means struggle.
Yes, these boys have struggled but they haven't compromised on their songs.
Teaming up with music producer and engineer Faisal Rafi - who co-produced Rahat Fateh Ali Khan's Charkha and played engineer to some tunes on Strings's Koi Aanay Wala Hai - Kaavish have aimed for complete live instrumentation on their album.
While front man Jaffer Zaidi dons the role of composer, Maaz, Daniel alongside Jaffer and various others including Nayyara Noor (Jaffer's mother) and Anwar Maqsood have penned the lyrics.
As for the music, it's definitely different. Having heard the rough cut of this album, it has to be said that Gunkali is for 2008 what Fuzon's Saagar was for 2003, a purely delightful melodic record.
Kaavish have even re-done their released singles, 'Bachpan', 'Choti Khushiyan' and 'Tere Pyar Mein' to make sure that these tunes get the right treatment under the watchful eyes of their producer Faisal Rafi.
Some of the biggest names from the music industry have played on this album. They include drummer Gumby, guitarists Omran Shafique, Aamir Zaki, Abbas Premjee, Shallum Xavier as well as the band itself.
One interesting bit about this album is the concentration on soft, slower melodies and the focus on piano, an instrument that somehow gets neglected in our music scene.
Heartbreaking, melancholic and truly beautiful, we bet Gunkali will be one of the best albums you'll hear… ever.
Artist: Zeb Bangash and Haniya Aslam
Album: Chup
Release: July 2008
As far as female voices go in the mainstream music scene of Pakistan, we're sorely lacking behind the world.
Not since Nazia Hassan and Hadiqa Kiyani have we been so excited by two female musicians. And they are Zeb Bangash and Haniya Aslam, the two girls who first made buzz with their single, 'Chup'.
With a couple of shows behind them, industry insiders are already impressed by this duo and they include the likes of Rohail Hyatt, Shahi Hasan, Zeeshan Parwez as well as countless others.
Between the two of them, they can channel voices that touch other singing prodigies like Tina Sani, Janis Joplin, Sarah Mclachlan and Lene Marlin.
"Our songs are about universal emotions such as longing, love, desire and loss," explained Haniya while speaking on their upcoming album.
Chup not only sees the debut of Zeb and Haniya but unites them with Mekaal Hasan who has produced the album. Other artistes involved in this album include Gumby, Shallum Xavier, Kamran Zaffar, Co-VEN men Hamza Jaffri, Sameer Ahmed and Sikander Mufti as well as Mauj man Omran Shafique.
What separates this album from a plethora of other is its bluesy feel. Most of the songs on this record, have, after all been composed on the acoustic guitar.
"It has a varied flavour and mixed genres. From Eastern and folksy songs to even Bollywood, the inspiration is drawn from a number of musical styles," Haniya stated explaining the sound.
So inspired by their music that Saqib Malik has taken the task of directing their first video, for the single, 'Aitebaar'.
Their tunes, 'Chup' and 'Chal Diye' that have been available for download from their website has further increased interest in these girls.
By the time this article goes in print, Zeb and Haniya's Chup should be out in markets. So grab a copy now!
Artist: Mauj
Album: Mauj
Release: 2008
Its funk, its punk, its groovy… it's Mauj.
Even though Mauj have been around for a few years now, their self-titled debut record hasn't been able to see daylight… until now.
With a record deal in hand and a video (set to be directed by Zeeshan Parwez) in the pipeline, the band spearheaded by Omran Shafique is all set to release their album later this year.
With tunes like 'Khushfehmi' and 'Paheliyan' and gigs all around town, Mauj have managed to do what few others can: establish a loyal listenership and win critics over.
Omran Shafique remains the band's most credible asset who shares lyrical responsibilities with Mohsin Atif and dominates the songwriting aspect of the album all by himself.
Having heard their singles like 'Mona', 'Baat Barti Gayi' and 'Awaaz', it is clear that this is not a one-hit or even two-hit wonder band.
With solid compositions, rock and funk galore, Mauj are hugely different from the other rock acts. Their songs have the kind of punk fun that reminds one of British acts like The Libertines and The Kills. The words can be sarcastic at times, solemn and introspective at other times, just like the tunes.
Their live shows - with Omran Shafique on vocals/guitars, Sikander Mufti on drums, Hamza Jaffri on rhythm guitars and Sameer Ahmed on bass - are fiery and with their record coming out, these shows will become even more exciting.
Mauj don't make kill-yourself-depressing music, but even so they attempt the more restrained and complex of emotions as far as songwriting goes. It is this treatment of each song that sets them apart and this is exactly why we think that their debut will be one album to watch out for.
Link: INSTEP Magzine
The singer was evicted after he shot his mouth off about a Pakistani singer’s entry on a reality programme
He has been out of the limelight for quite some time; his playback singing assignments have dwindled and the only thing that has kept him in the spotlight are perhaps the reality shows on television. But playback singer Abhijeet Bhattacharya had a taste of his own medicine last week when his ‘strategy’ of opposing the entry of a Pakistani singer on a show backfired and resulted in his own ouster.
It’s common knowledge that Zee TV is promoting Indo-Pak friendship through its reality shows. As per the format and strategy of the show Ek Se Badhkar Ek, the channel decided to give Mussarrat Abbas of Pakistan a wild card entry into Sa Re Ga Ma Pa Challenge 2007.
All was well till Abhijeet got a whiff of the decision. He threatened to quit.
We thought of getting Abhijeet’s point of view. He says, “I don’t understand why the channel is trying to get a Pakistani singer for no reason. If our singers like Harpreet or Emon who have been eliminated in the same show, can’t come, how is it that a Pakistani singer can come here out of the blue? I refuse to accept that.”
When we told him that Indians too go abroad like the US or UK for better prospects, he shot back, “I am not talking about abroad. I am only talking about the Indian music industry which still has a very limited scope. I mean, they are coming from Pakistan and eating up the share. They have taken almost 10 per cent of the work. Do you think Atif Aslam can sing?”
We thought dragging Atif Aslam’s name into the controversy was totally uncalled for and so we reminded him of Raahat Fateh Ali Khan. “Well, I think our singers like Sukhwinder Singh or Shankar Mahadevan can sing better than him any day,” he reasoned.
Just when we were getting a hint that he is trying to garner some controversy for himself, he retorts, “I have seen kids and their parents queuing up under the scorching heat to get a chance in the shows. And this is like showing disrespect to them by not giving our kids a chance and giving a Pakistani singer a wild card entry.”
Maybe he is not fighting an election, but his strategy bears uncanny resemblance to politico’s insular strategies. Only this time it is targeted towards singers in the neighbouring country.
And this time, it has not paid off.Aren’t mangoes the best thing that ever happened to mankind …….after womankind ? or maybe if we were just left with mangoes we’ll be fewer and lesser of sinners . But then how would we know what sweetness really is . For me sweetness is female . If world only had men i think it would be such a bitter place and the mangoes will only taste like plums. Its the female kind that has enriched the universe with such everlasting sweetness. From our mothers to wives to sisters to grandmother … they nurture our lives with sheer empathy , compassion , forgiveness and solitude. They help us keep our souls intact . But mind you if you end up with a wrong woman it could be double trouble . But i feel those who have a good heart end up with only good in life . Blackness surrounds those who have negativity stored in their hearts and minds . No matter how wrong your life may be , if you continue to stay fair to it , it’ll ultimately be fair to you . it’s a fair game my friend. It’s how you play it . Sounds a bit bookish but what to do …… it’s the truth . But as i was saying … aren’t mangoes the best thing that ever happned to mankind ? i mean how can they taste so good . How ?
Source: Ali Zafar's Blog
Call's second bollywood venture 'Yeh Pal' will now release in August. The delay has taken place due to the delay in the movie "Aasma, the sky is the limit" release, which is now releasing in September. Call will be touring India again in August for the Yeh Pal's remix video shoot and for the movie featuring Yeh Pal's music launch plus the song and the movie's promotion in India.
Here is a video of Shehzad Roy's new album which is banned by the Government of PAKISTAN.
Zee’s Ek Se Badhkar Ek is again in the news and this time, it is the wild card entries that have created unrest amongst others!! The show will now have 3 jodis making it into the contest via wild card; the lucky contestants being Aishwarya and Aanchal Dwivedi, Mussarat Abbas(of SRGMP 2007 fame) and Sanober Kabir and above all Abhishek Awasthi with Meenal Jain and not Sumedha Karmahe!
When asked Raja Hassan whether he is happy with the wild cards, the diplomat quips, “Well, it is the channel’s decision and I am happy about it”.
The new entrant Aanchal Dwivedi just cannot believe her luck as she says, “This is a big challenge for me and you will see a different Aanchal here”. On Abhishek being the sole contestant to get back into the contest amidst new faces, the actress quips, “I feel everyone is awesome, but this just shows us that Abhishek is the strongest contestant and he deserves to be back in”.
The popular actress Shayantani Ghosh says, “When I signed for the show, I knew that there will be wild card entries based on the channel’s decision. So I am absolutely fine with it”.
Amidst mixed reactions flowing in from the contestants and judges of the show, a participant on the basis of anonymity speaks out, “I guess the show is about jodis and if they keep a wild card, the jodi should come back. So how can only Abhishek come in while his partner Sumedha is left out? Also what happened to the other eliminated jodis? Does it mean that they were not good enough to get back?”
The furor does not end here as another participant who is ousted from the show says, “I was really sad that nobody raised their voice on how things went wrong. I really felt bad for Sumedha that she is not taken back. When the onus was on Jodis and not individuals, why is it that only Abhishek is brought back?”
When talked to the esteemed judge Abhijeet Bhattacharya on Abhishek getting back, he quotes, “Abhishek is a deserving candidate who got voted out via SMS and not because of judges. I am glad that he is back”. On questioned why his jodeedar Sumedha was left out, he says, “Frankly speaking, Abhishek is really good at dancing, but Sumedha was very weak in front of him. He really deserved a better partner; so this change is for the good”.
While Abhijeet seemed happy about Abhishek’s comeback, he sounded pissed off on the entry of Mussarat Abbas into the competition. When asked the reason, the singer cum judge opens up to say, “See this is an Indian show, so why do we need a Pakistani here? Do they call us in Pakistan?”. Abhijeet feels that the entry of Mussarat means good singers like Emon, Harpeet etc have lost the chance to get back… “Why is it that our good singers face the brunt just for the entry of a Pakistani singer?”, questions Abhijeet.
He also feels that it is high time that our own next generation singers be given a platform to showcase their talent. “When we don’t allow Pakistanis in other fields like medicine, engineering etc, then why allow them here? Singing is also a commercial market and we are not here for charity”, quips he.
When asked about his decision now, Abhijeet asserts, “I have clearly told the channel that I will not judge Mussarat. Anyway, they have a choice to opt for the judge and he can get his marks from Ahmed”. Lastly, leaving everything to the channel Abhijeet says, “I do not know what decision the channel will take. But I can tell you that I will stay my ground till I am forced by the channel to walk off!! And if this happens, it cannot get more shameful as an Indian had to leave because of a Pakistani!!”.
"I couldn't believe a truck driver was listening to 'Aisi Taisi'!"
– Ehtesham Khan of Azal is elated
Azal's Road to Infinity has seen a warm welcome in local music markets. But their most famous hit still remains the fantastic 'Aisi Taisi'. Recently Ehtesham Khan aka ET of Azal revealed an incident that has made him and his band ecstatic.
"I was going somewhere and I met this guy. He was a truck driver. He looked at me and he said, 'Aap ko kahin dekha hai (I've seen you somewhere)' and then he remembered and said, "TV per dekha hai (I've seen you on TV). Aap Ka gana 'Aisi Taisi' mein apnay truck mein sunta hoon (I listen to your song in my truck).' I was blown away. I couldn't believe a truck driver was listening to 'Aisi Taisi'. This is exactly the kind of response, the impact we always hoped to make. But to hear it from a truck driver who can relate to a rock song like 'Aisi Taisi'... it feels great," exclaimed ET.
But we're really not surprised why 'Aisi Taisi' is penetrating its way through the masses. The tune is so pertinent to our chaotic times that the feeling behind it can be understood by everyone, not just the rock-friendly urban kids but the masses.
Not many music acts in Pakistan have the courage to speak to the awam through their music. And Azal did just that with their debut single. After all, pop(ular) music should have the truck drivers' stamp of approval, shouldn't it?
Prime Minister Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani on Wednesday described Mehdi Hassan an asset to the country and announced Rs 50,000 per month life-time assistance for the legendary singer.
Talking to the Ghazal maestro at his residence here, the prime minister said his services for the country will always be remembered. The prime minister said Mehdi Hasan had earned a great name for Pakistan and the people and the country were proud of him.
Besides Rs 50,000 per month lifetime assistance for Mehdi Hasan, he also promised jobs for his two grandchildren. The prime minister promised that he would talk to the chief minister Punjab for promotion of his son Sajjad Mehdi from the rank of inspector of police to the rank of DSP.
Mehdi Hassan started his career from the Radio Pakistan in early 1950s and never looked back since. He virtually ruled the film industry as playback singer from up to late 1980s. Many of his movie-based Ghazals have become classics.
He has huge following in the Sub-continent and across the world wherever Urdu is understood or spoken. He has been off the limelight as he has not been keeping good health for the past many years. Prime Minister Gilani prayed for his health. He directed the Sheikh Zaid Hospital authorities to provide the best treatment to the singer and the government will bear all the expenses.
India-based Pakistani singer Adnan Sami has reached an agreement with ex-wife and actress Zeba Bakhtiar in a legal battle over the right to spend time with his son.
Sami, who became a huge hit in India with his single “Lift kara dey“, divorced his actress-filmmaker wife Zeba, who had a dream debut in Bollywood in Raj Kapoor’s “Henna”.
Sami and Bakhtiar’s son Azan currently lives here in Pakistan with his mother. With the issuance of an order by the high court, Sami will be allowed to meet Azan with a 15-day notice.
Sami and Bakhtiar have also agreed to withdraw cases they had filed against each other, express news channel reported. Bakhtiar had recently expressed surprise at reports of their reunion doing the rounds of the media and dismissed the possibility. She said she was leading a happy life with her son Azan. While Bakhtiar is single, Sami has moved on and remarried.
Singer Hadiqa Kiyani has decided to leave the country and move to London in October.
Hadiqa had recently shifted to Lahore from Karachi but after her marriage she finally decided to move abroad. Reportedly she had already bought a house in London that was being renovated.
It is pertinent to mention that Hadiqa had recently married a British businessman.
Pakistani music band “Jal” heads to the Taj Mahal in Agra to shoot a music video for their upcoming album.
The band members say the monument is a perfect setting for the shoot, and are overwhelmed by the affection shown to them in India.
To Download Jal The Band's album Boondh Click HERE
After Adnan Sami and Rahat Fateh Ali Khan, prominent pop star Jawad Ahmed will compose music for Indian film ‘Wirsa’.
Jawad would compose music for five numbers of the Bollywood Punjabi film along with the background music.
Jawad Ahmed has started work over poetry and music of the film in a local studio along with music director Sair Ali Bago and lyricist Ahmed Anis.
Talking to media, Jawad Ahmed said along with traditional Punjabi music he would also experiment with the music in the film.
He said the Pakistani showbiz industry can be revived through working with India.
End.
The show is unlike most VJ–oriented shows on television. These two girls tackle everything from the importance of a film like Khuda Kay Liye to musicians who often talk too much, it is honest, it is their first-hand account and ultimately caters to an entire generation that looks at these two girls as icons.
In a small span of time, Naveen and Mahira have carved their identities. If Naveen is the eclectic one, Mahira is the charming one and together, they really are an unbeatable combination.
It is delightful to see two veejays on tv who are intelligent enough to pick up stories, ideas and beats that are hugely significant to the potpourri of pop culture. And hey, these two have a fantastic sense of humour too. So this week, Mahira and Naveen are Instep's hotsteppers of the week.
link: INSTEP Magzine
DAWN Young World July 12, 2008
CHIT CHAT: Meet Versatile Najam Sheraz
Najam Sheraz is one of the most prolific musicians of Pakistan. A versatile singer with an alluring voice, music is Najam's passion. He carries behind him a whole lot of albums featuring singles that are considered to be anthems worldwide.
Najam's music is an amalgamation of various genres and for that reason he can easily be labelled as a "World Music Artist". Be it Eastern classical or folk, rock or funk and even blues, Najam excels in all, there by separating him from other artists. YW caught up with him in an enjoyable chit chat.
Your full and real name?
Najam Sheraz
Star Sign /Birth Date:
Leo / 2nd August
Your favourite artists/ bands?
Stevie Wonder, Queen, Rod Stewart, yes, Tufail Niazi, Mehdi Hassa, Amanat Ali Khan, Kishore Kumar, Noor Jahan, Sabri Qawal, Cranberries, Sting, Michael Jackson, Whitney Houston, Steve Perry, Karen Carpenters, Barbra Streisand, James Brown, Aruna Laila, Kean, Cold Play, Natasha Beddingfield, Billy Joel, Ray Charles, Eritha Franklin, Ella ….To be Continued
Your favourite label?
Whoever gives more money… ha ha
The last perfume you bought?
Michael, Silver Shadow, Comme Des Garcons and Tuscany
What do you do to relax?
Swim
You favourite food?
Mutton karahi, daal, BBQ chicken pasta in sticky sauce of Frank n Benny's.
Favourite drink?
Coffee Black
Best coffee place?
My kitchen
In your DVD player?
Resident Evil Extinction
What do you do on Sunday mornings?
Make breakfast
Which of your songs is closest to you and why?
Difficult to choose one but my upcoming first English single "Only Love".
Abhijeet insulted Atif Aslam few days back in a tv show. And now Aadesh Shrivastav and Asha Bhosle insulted him. Aadesh Shrivastav called Atif Aslam a 'garbage' and worse than the participants of SA RE GA MA singing competition.... The only relief was that Pritam supported Atif Aslam and said that 'Nobody can sing like Atif Aslam'...... I am sharing the video of this incident. It would be great if you will give your comments on this.
Watch the Video Here
Calling out again
'Laaree Chootee' has put Call in the limelight once again with an LSA nomination and the band is back with new verve after their first concert in the US of A!
Aqsa Hussain, Karachi
It was in 2002 when Call debuted on the scene with their album, Jilawatan. With massive hits like 'Nishaan' and 'Pukaar', the band heralded by Zulfiqar Jabbar Khan aka Xulfi quickly established itself as one of the best rock bands in Pakistan.
In 2007 came their trump card and it was 'Laaree Chootee' for the Indian film, Ek Chalis Ki Last Local. The film failed to make a mark but the song became a monster hit in and outside Pakistan.
This year Call have picked up a nomination in the newly-introduced category of Song of the Year at the Lux Style Awards for 'Laaree Chootee'. The band that has been AWOL from the spotlight and recently surfaced with their first overseas show in USA. Instep Today caught up with Call to find out where they are headed next and when their second album will release…
Instep Today: Tell us about your show in the United States of America?
Xulfi: It was an amazing experience. Playing rock in a place like USA, where rock has actually evolved, was quite a satisfying experience.
Plus, it was really nice to see how the audience had welcomed us. The Asian diaspora really waits for such events. Mainstream bands and artists that they see on TV channels, singing in their native language, makes the people living abroad nostalgic. It links them to their home. That's how music can actually bridge gaps between us and our people living abroad.
Sultan: And very importantly, playing alongside a fabulous foreign drummer, Albert, was quite a great moment for all of us. Wasn't it?
Xulfi: Definitely! He's one of the best drummers I've played with and the interesting thing was that his style of drumming actually went perfectly with our style of music, even though we had just two hours of jamming. From the fun we had over there, as a trip, to the concert, it was really great. The goras were very courteous towards us. In fact, we were pretty impressed with the way we were treated. Even if we went anywhere where people didn't know us, we never felt discriminated against.
Instep Today: Where did you guys perform?
Junaid: It was a one-off concert tour. The rest were interviews and photo shoots that we did for a magazine. In a nutshell, you can say that it was a concert plus a promotional tour for us. The concert happened in Fairfax, Virginia at the George Mason University. We never expected the crowd to actually sing all of our songs, but that actually happened, so we were pretty happy with everything. There wasn't any other mainstream performer, but there were a few Urdu singing bands (based in USA) who performed at the show.
Instep Today: 'Laaree Chootee' has been nominated in Song of the Year category at the LSAs. What do you think of your chances are of winning?
Xulfi: We are definitely excited. Everyone waits for the Lux Style Awards, from the fashion industry to the music and entertainment industry. I am pretty happy that a new category has been introduced to honour the song of the year for 2007. I know it's a pretty big achievement being nominated and I hope for a fair draw in the awards. There is strong competition obviously. Some of the top songs released last year have been nominated. And yes, we are hoping we will win. Being optimistic never hurts.
Instep Today: What about your upcoming album? It was supposed to be out in April...
Xulfi: We wanted it to be out in April, but that plan had to be delayed because of a few reasons. Firstly, the seldom upward and the more often downward trend of the political situation in our country did not really let the people focus on music during those days. So, if the audience wasn't geared up for listening, then neither were we as a band. Besides, it was a stressful situation for us. Besides being musicians, we're also citizens of Pakistan. We couldn't bring ourselves to really focus with so much going on in Pakistan.
Right now, the album is still in its recording phase. This time around, the album has live drums that we've recorded at Farhad Humayun's (Overload) studio in Lahore. It was fun engineering the drum sound with Farhad. I think we have come up with a drum sound that will hopefully be a benchmark for future albums coming out of our music scene.
Instep Today: Who has produced the album?
Junaid: Xulfi has produced the album, and the recordings are taking place at Xth Harmonic, Xulfi's studio. The drums, though, were recorded at Farhad's studio, and were engineered by Xulfi with help from Farhad.
Sultan: The interesting thing about the album is that a variety of drummers have played on the album. We have Farhad (Overload) playing on four of the tracks, Fahad Khan (Mekaal Hasan Band, ex-Fuzon) playing on a couple of tracks, and Kenny (Akaash) playing on three tracks. So there is diversity even in the style of drumming in the album as every drummer brings his own flavour while playing.
Xulfi: The album is lyrically and compositionally complete. The recording is more than half done. So in a month's time, we'll probably have it ready in our hands, which is good news for all our fans. Because the sooner we get it completed, the sooner it will release, hopefully!
Instep Today: Any upcoming videos?
Xulfi: The video for 'Yeh Pal' is going to release later this month or the first week of August. For those who don't know, 'Yeh Pal' is our next Bollywood venture, after 'Laaree Chootee'.
The rest of the videos, from the album, are probably going to be released near the album release. We are still deciding on which video director should direct which song's video. Whenever that's final, the video shoot, and consequent release dates would be announced.
Instep Today: Have you signed up with any record label as yet?
Xulfi: We're talking to with the major ones. We'll come to a conclusion soon enough.
Instep Today: It's turning out to be a big year for Pakistani music. Strings and Atif have already released their album. In the pipeline are albums from Ali Azmat, Mauj and Mekaal Hasan Band. Competitition is tough...
Xulfi: I won't make tall claims about our album. All I can is that this album is an honest, creative work of art, both musically and lyrically, that has evolved with time. Personalities grow, one comes up with new ideas, breaks old ones, moments happen that influence life in the most weird, and sometimes in the most beautiful of ways. Hence, one is inspired to write more intensely. Doing things to outdo other musicians isn't really the aim, because all artists are striving hard for a better music scene.
link: http://thenews.jang.com.pk/instep_today.asp
Click On The Song And Click "Download Link" to download.
To download 'Halaat-e-Pakistan' by Ei8th Note
click on the link below...
halaat-e-pakistan(musikpakistan.blogspot.com).mp3
Agha Amjad Khan : Lead Vocals , Lead Guitars
Arham Imtiaz : Lead Guitars , Vocals
Furqan Khan : Bass Guitar
Sajjad Khatri : Rythm Guitars.
