Download Ali Zafar's Those For Truth MP3 Song (MP Exclusive)
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http://rapidshare.com/files/141385738/Ali_Zafar_-_Those_for_Truth.mp3
Download Ali Zafar's Those For Truth MP3 Song (MP Exclusive)
DOWNLOAD:
http://rapidshare.com/files/141385738/Ali_Zafar_-_Those_for_Truth.mp3
Ali Azmat, a renowned Pakistani singer, is coming to town Aug. 24 to rock Surrey on the occasion of Pakistan’s Independence Day.
This multidimensional artist who has been called the ‘Bono’ of Asia and has been labelled by the New York Times as Asia’s answer to Santana, is the only Pakistani musician who has performed live at the United Nations assembly promoting the music scene of Pakistan.
He has sold over 20 million albums worldwide, and was nominated for an Emmy award in 2002, putting Pakistan on the musical map.
Azmat’s first solo album, Social Circus, has exceeded the expectations of fans and silenced critics who were sceptical of his lone venture.
Azmat will perform as part of Jashan-e-Azadi 2008, an initiative of the Pakistani Youth Advisory Committee. The committee is comprised of a group of young Pakistani-Canadians who get involved in the Pakistani community.
The committee’s mandate is to preserve and promote Pakistan and its culture in British Columbia. The committee’s first initiative was organizing the Pakistani tent exhibiting Pakistani Culture and tradition at the 4th annual Canadian Islamic Cultural Expo.
Jashan-e-Azadi 2008 will also feature NAKSH, a local South Asian band, and a Cultural Show depicting the cultures and traditions of Pakistan.
The event will be held at the Bell Center for Performing Arts in Surrey starting at 6:30 p.m.
Tickets are $20, $25, $30 and $50 for VIP. For more information or to obtain tickets, contact Hamza Malik at 604.723.4090 or Waseem Javed at 604.779.7513.
The crowds kept pouring in and the ladies couldn’t help but scream out from time to time. It was a scenario any rockstar would have loved to be in — the love, adulation, screaming fans, the works. It was Saturday night when Pakistan Band Jal performed at Galaxy, The Park, as part of the 14th anniversary celebration of Someplace Else. When the band took the stage, they were greeted with loud cheers and applause from the audience. They belted out one hit after the other and had the crowd sing along with them and provide perfect backing vocals. Whoever said that singers from across the Border are besura? Farhan and Goher proved everyone wrong. Everything was perfect in their Sufi-music-influenced vocals — sur and taal. Their rock version of Mast kalandar was sung in true Sufiana andaaz while maintaining the contemporary touch to it. When the band got off stage, the crowd were on a high screaming for more. Link: Times Of India |
DOWNLOAD ALI AZMAT - KLASHINFOLK [2008-MP3-VBR-320Kbps]
DOWNLOAD:
01. Klashinfolk Intro
02. Gallan
03. Mera Khuda
04. Tanha Hai Kyon
05. Yeh Kya Hua
06. Naina
07. Tera Mera
08. Ley Sambhal
09. Shukriya
10. Ay Mere Saathi
11. You Are
12. Sawal
DOWNLOAD ALL THE SONGS IN ONE SINGLE LINK
http://rapidshare.com/files/139286015/Klashinfolk_-_Ali_Azmat__2008-CBR-320Kbps__musikpakistan.blogspot.com_.rar
PASS:
musikpakistan.blogspot.com
DOWNLOAD:
01. Klashinfolk Intro
02. Gallan
03. Mera Khuda
04. Tanha Hai Kyon
05. Yeh Kya Hua
06. Naina
07. Tera Mera
08. Ley Sambhal
09. Shukriya
10. Ay Mere Saathi
11. You Are
12. Sawal
DOWNLOAD ALL THE SONGS IN ONE SINGLE LINK
http://rapidshare.com/files/139286015/Klashinfolk_-_Ali_Azmat__2008-CBR-320Kbps__musikpakistan.blogspot.com_.rar
PASS:
musikpakistan.blogspot.com
Experience the fourth episode of Coke Studio with All Artists.
Artists: All Artists
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
Percussion Jam
Various
Dildara
Rahat Fateh Ali
Mein Challa
Ali Azmat
Garaj Baras
Ali Azmat & Rahat Fateh Ali
Dhaani
Strings & Ustaad Gullo
Sarkye
Strings
Flute Jam
Rahat Ali
Allah Hu
Ali Zafar & Tufail Ahmed
Electrifying performances by rock band ‘Noori’ and ‘Jal’ overpowered the ecstatic crowd and created a musical euphoria at the rock concert ‘Rockball 08’ organised by JB & Jaws with Wateen on Saturday night at PNCA Auditorium.
Just like a wake up call or a war siren, the rock stars took the audience by storm and rocked the night away. The jam-packed audience went in to a frenzied state as both popular bands took them by a musical storm and played on their hot and hit numbers one after another enthused with vibrant and energetic performances.
After a couple of numbers by local vocalists to warm up the night, Noori’s Ali Noor and Ali Hamza took the stage buzzing with energy and received astounding reception from the audience. With a superb balance of traditional Punjabi lyrics with rock and some highly Western numbers, the intensity of their movements and expression of complete involvement with the music was indeed electrifying. Noori opened their session with the most nostalgic and thought-provoking number, which is a big hit ‘Merey Log’ and then continued with their other hot hits from ‘Manwa re’ to ‘dil ki Qasam’ and ‘Suno ke mai hoon jawan’. Noori’s performance can be termed as one of the most energetic and entertaining live acts to have hit the Pakistani music scene. ‘Noori’ is one of the pioneering rock bands of Pakistan known for its hard-hitting impact in a multitude of interactive experiences. With highly energetic music and lyrics that every youngster can relate with, Noori has become a phenomenon, which has really picked up in the Pakistani music. With 2 albums out so far, ‘Suno Ke Mein Hun Jawan’ in 2003 and ‘Peeli Patti Aur Raja Jaani Ki Gol Dunya’ in 2005, along with 10 videos aired, more than half of which have been made by the band itself, Noori is definitely a creative name, which is respected in the Pakistani music industry and loved by thousands worldwide.
Jal came next, playing along the lines of Latin-Acoustic Guitars with main emphasis on melodies and the lyrical contents. Jal has become ever popular in their efforts fuelled by the desire to freshen up the pop/rock genre in Pakistan that also gave their music a very high degree of accessibility both in terms of composition and lyrics. Gohar Mumtaz and Farhan Saeed rocked the night away with their hot hits along with their teammates Shazi, Salim, Saad, Hasnain and Mac with his management support. From ‘Dil Harey’ to ‘Teri Yad’, the band rocked away the audience.
Shehzad Roy's album Qismat Apne Haat Mein is even better
Shehzad Roy outdoes himself with his new effort and breaks new conceptual ground in Pakistani pop
By Muniba Kamal
The video grabbed the attention of the nation as soon as it hit the airwaves. And within a week of its release, 'Laga Reh' was playing and replaying at an ad nauseum rate, except we never got nauseated… it remains a song that speaks for all of us.
After countless viewings, I still find myself laughing at it. The bunglings of the government in the newspaper makes the giggles gurgle up twofold. At a time when things are being painted as badly as they are in the press, the cat and mouse game between the political parties and the ex-General with both playing Tom and Jerry alternately, our PM's visits abroad and the hysteria they generated here at home, American transgression on our soil, various Rehman Malik fiascos, lawyers on a rampage, the perpetual breaking news situations on all or news channels that are bordering on the ridiculous now because the crises have gone on so damn long that they seem to have become a bad joke.
In the 'Laga Reh' video, Shehzad Roy takes this bad joke and turns it into a great video, internalizing the experience so we all identify with it.
“Main jab dus saal ka tha tou mein ne nine o'clock news pe suna ke
“Mujhe fikar yeh nahin key eh mulk kaise chale ga, mujhe firk yeh hai ke aisay he na chalta rahe.” (I'm not worried about how this country will run, I am only worried that it will carry on running like this)
The song incorporates hilarious dialogue between Shezad and a buzurg (elderly gentleman):
Shehzad: “Mulk mein kitni tension ho gayi hai” (Look at the tension in the country)
Buzurg: “Kuch nahin kuch nahin, sab Allah par chhor do” (It's nothing, just leave it to God)
Shehzad: “Kuch na kar kuch na kar too sab kuch allah par chhod do… Allah hi tera hafiz hai” (Don't do anything at all, leave it all to God and then only God will be your saviour)
It's edgy stuff and incredibly relevant. This is the way previous generations have thought; indeed, the lines Shehzad Roy has penned are something said to us by some buzurg at some point in time or another. A whole new generation that has grown up with that attitude does want to go out there and change the status quo. It is this generation that
And the video ends with perhaps one of the most classic lines one has ever heard.
A punter to a politician: “Sir, lagta hai qaum ko jaganay ka waqt aa
Politician: Qaum ko mat jagao, yeh kisi zaroori kaam se so rahe hain! (Don't wake up the nation, they're sleeping because of some important work)
‘Laga Reh’ is indeed the funniest take on life in
‘Laga Reh’ is probably director Ahsan Rahim's finest video and it looks very much like a collaborative affort. Ahsan and Shehzad go back a long way. As do Ahsan, Faisal Qureshi and Mani having worked on Ulta Seedha together. With perhaps the most cinematic eye in the industry, Ahsan outdoes all his previous work with the video and the way the visuals sync with the song makes one think they were conceived together. The song and the video speak of major brainstorming and some very creative minds working together. That Shehzad Roy has built bridges between all these talents is commendable. It shows a man capable of recognizing talent in the industry and bringing them all together to create a video that truly exploded into our consciousness.
And the biggest surprise is that when you give the album a listen, you realize that 'Laga Reh' is not even the best song on it!
Qismat Apne Haat Mein
‘Laga Reh’ is the second best song, but it employs a clever technique that Shehzad uses to devastating affect in the title track of his album, which is characters speaking out and leading in to his music. The best song by far is 'Qismat Apne Haat Mein' itself.
It begins with the extremely affected accent of a
Shehzad Roy: Cough Cough…
Shehzad Roy: I'm allergic to bullshit.
And then the guitar riffs start and leads into a rollicking number laden with clever innuendos.
Zulm na kar too
Chand logon ne qaum ki lay lee hai (meaningful pause)
Qismat apnay haath mein.
(Do be cruel or we will leave these streets. A few people have taken the fortune of
Unfortunately the clever innuendo that makes one laugh out loud gets totally lost in the English translation.
‘Qismat Apne Haat Mein’ is a gem of a number, calling on the youth to wake up and smell the coffee and realize what is happening around them. That said, the album is not ground breaking musically, which is one criticism seasoned musicians have set forth. But one must say to them that the album breaks new ground in terms of the thought that has gone into it. It shows a singer chronicling what is happening in this day and age through song, oodles of angst and a biting wit. The music is simple, all catchy rhythm and very awami, which is the way Shehzad has always done it; however, songs like 'Laga Reh' and 'Qismat Apne Haat Mein' stand out for their audacity. And audacity is exactly what the Pakistani pop music has been missing for a very long time, ever since Junoon's 'Ehtesaab' was banned... and 'Ehtesaab' was nowhere close to the anthems Shehzad Roy has come out with.
Songs for the young
There is the excellent 'Khul Ke Pyaar Hum Nahin Kar Sakte' (We cannot love freely) which goes on: Khul Ke Jhoom Bhi Nahi Hum Sakte
Saara saara din in hi sochon mein gum
Kya ho plan raat ka jis mein ho jaein gum
(We cannot dance openly either
All day we are lost in the thought
Of cooking up an evening plan in which to get lost)
And then Shehzad Roy introduces the father by singing “Raat hotay hi eik paigham aata hai” (And when it's night a message arrives)
Father: Beta, barah baj gaye hain, ghar wapas aa jao (Son, it's 12 o'clock, come home NOW!)
This is the story of so many Pakistani teenaged lives and this is precisely the stuff pop anthems are made of. And these anthems would not have happened had Shehzad not decided to write them himself. The lyrical simplicity is what grabs you. Shehzad has taken his own dilemmas growing up, drawing room conversations, prevailing social attitudes and spun songs around them in a way no one has before, with the possible exception of Abrar, who does the same brilliantly in Punjabi. However, his songs are more social commentary. Shehzad Roy's album has both the social and political edge
There is also touch of idealism with the excellent 'Quaid e Azam', the most unlikely tribute to the father of the nation. It begins with a child doubting his future because he's been naughty and his grandmother has scolded him saying he will amount to nothing. And it is this child that Shehzad sings to.
Quaid e Azam jab chhote the, woh bhi nani se shrasrat karte hon ge
Lekin kehte honge: “Mein ek din kuch banoon ga, nanoon ji aap bhi yaad karein ge”
(When the Quaid was a little boy, he probably played pranks on his grandma too. But he must have said: “I will be something one day, someone so big Grandma that you will remember me.”)
It's a song that forces us to think back to childhood, and ponder on what Jinnah's would have been. And when you look at the song in context of the man that really was (if you read Stanley Wolpert's Jinnah) and compare it to what he has been twisted into by our own skewed perspective of history, Shehzad's imaginings on his childhood make one say “Good on you Shehzad!”
The other numbers
The other lovely number is 'Zindagi' that was released as a video last year with Abida Parveen. Abida's voice and the guitar make more a memorable song. And then there are the ballads out of which 'Aankhein' remains the most effective because of the edge. “Sapna mera aankhon se kuch aise gira, saath hi mujh ko bhi le gira”. That it follows the angsty 'Laga Reh' on the album makes the song even more poignant.
'Ek Baar', 'Janay Kahan' and 'Darwaza' are sweet enough melodically, but they aren't a patch on Atif's 'Pehli Nazar' which to date is remains the catchiest pop ballad of the year. Neither do they have the musical sophistication of Strings' 'Koi Aanay Wala Hai' and 'Humsafar'. Shehzad seems to have found his niche on this album, which is edgy pop and that is something that hasn't been done before. With Qismat Apnay Haat Mein, Shehzad Roy has moved on from being a pop poster boy to pop renegade and that is a gigantic leap.
The new Shehzad Roy
Minus the ineffective ballads, Qismat Apnay Haat Mein is nothing short of a pop revolution. We have seen the bubblegum disco beats Nazia and Zoheb, and the patriotism and introspection of the Vital Signs. There has been Hadiqa with her heavily Punjabi influenced pop that made her a star and one has seen the joyful tongue-in-cheek verve of Ali Zafar’s Huqa Paani and the meteoric rise of Atif Aslam who came out with the rather banal Meri Kahani this year. Shehzad himself was first the 'Teri Soorat' boy and then (a tad more impressively) the 'Saali' guy… but let's face it, while 'Saali' may have caused some strong reactions and was a catchy enough song, it was innocuous and silly. 'Laga Reh' has become a rebel yell for our times and if Shahzad's next video is 'Qismat Apnay Haath Mein', then he will solidify that reputation and go down a pop hero.
It's about time
And for those of us, growing up as teenagers in
At school they taught me how to be
So pure in thought and word and deed
They didn't quite succeed
For everything I long to do
No matter when or where or who
Has one thing in common, too
It's a, it's a, it's a, it's a sin
Everything I've ever done
Everything I ever do
Every place I've ever been
Everywhere I'm going to
It's a sin
The Pet Shop Boys may not have made it as big as Wham and Madonna would, but they had an impact. And all these years later, they remain a personal favourite from that era.
They made us think even as they made us dance and sing along with them. That is what Shehzad Roy has achieved the same in the Urdu slang idiom with ‘Laga Reh’, ‘Qismat Apnay Haat Mein’ and ‘Khul Kay Pyar’. And that is historical for Pakistani pop.
The corporate question mark
Apart from breaking new ground in terms of giving Pakistani pop socially relevant anthems, the
other thing that sets Shehzad Roy's Qismat Apne Haat Mein apart is the fact that it is the only album to come out this year without a corporate sponsorship. This is shocking considering that he is tried and tested and in a day and age that even Zeb and Haniya with their eclectic blend of jazz, blues and Urdu find a corporate sponsor, the fact that Shehzad Roy didn't makes one circumspect about the role of corporations in our music scene.
Our pop industry has become heavily dependent on corporate giants to fund the music scene. In the absence of ticketed events, corporations organize concerts. In the absence of record labels they started sponsoring artists and they carry on doing so to this day, be it in terms of videos or albums. The problem with corporations is that they play it safe, whereas art is all about taking risks. Will getting that corporate sponsor keep musicians from coming out with social commentary and politically loaded songs? Will corporations discourage our artists from pushing the envelope?
Shehzad couldn't find a sponsor for his album. He told Instep no corporation was willing to touch it with a barge pole. He went to Fire Records and Geo and they agreed to do it, which is probably why, the ‘Laga Reh’ video is subtly branded with the organization's emblems. It is important though that there is an alternative to the corporate giants of the consumer good world. Media organizations are willing to push the envelope in
Here's hoping that the refreshing direction of Qismat Apnay Haat Mein sets the winds of change blowing in Pakistani pop just as the Pet Shop Boys boys did with British pop in the 80s. There is no reason why pop shouldn't start ideas churning in your head even as its beat sets your feet tapping. In fact, it is a winning combination and ‘Laga Reh's success proves that
SOURCE: The News - Instep
| Born into a family with a centuries-long tradition of qawwali singing, Khan began recording in the early ‘70s after ignoring his father’s wishes that he pursue medicine. Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan and was considered as one of the greatest Qawwals in the world. Khan was a master of qawwali singing, which combines lyrics from Sufi religious poems with hypnotic rhythms and vocal chants. He never performed in English he sang in Urdu, Punjabi and Farsi Khan also captivated many Westerners, including such musicians as Vedder, Joan Osborne and the late Jeff Buckley, as well as Hollywood types like Sean Penn, Susan Sarandon and Tim Robbins. Khan had made a great impression on the music scene with his mix of Eastern poetic music with that of the West. After travelling to London for treatment for liver and kidney problems, Khan was rushed from the airport to Cromwell Hospital, where he suffered a fatal heart attack. Khan departed from this sphere on the 16th of August 1997, and will be missed immensely by his fans all across the globe. |
Junaid Jamshed to make a difference with his next offering… and he’s not doing naats this time!
Instep caught up with the yester years wonder boy and one of our biggest heart throbs of the 80s, Junaid Jamshed to see what he is currently working on and exactly what he has planned out for August 14.
Junaid will be coming back with a bang with a new album in the coming year, which according to him, is on the lines of his previous album, Jalwa e Janan. The only difference is that is not a compilation of naats, but actual experiences in life that inspire him which he has woven together in a lyrical form to inspire the youth and the nation.
“I spend most of my time on Allah’s path. In my upcoming album, which will be released sometime next year, I have put in the little knowledge that I have to improve people’s lives. Everyone has worries in life that they want addressed. I have tried to address those problems and in the process I have learnt a lot and have tried to mend my own self. If I can help inspire anyone with my work, it an achievement for me. That is my objective,” he speaks about his new path in life and it is interesting that he doesn’t really place stock in doing something special on August 14.
“I’m not doing anything particular on Independence Day. I try and do something interesting all year round. Ramzan is coming up and on the business side we are trying to come up with good designs. Shalwar kameez should be trendy so people look good and want to wear them, which is what we concentrate on. We always try and play with different colours and that you see all year round. Its not something were doing specially for August 14. Pakistani people have their own distant tastes and styles and our designers are working on those lines all year round.”
Junaid Jamshed can convert all he wants and have many more careers, but for the people of Pakistan, he is one icon who is never going out of style.
link: The News International - No. 1 English Newspaper from Pakistan30, 1899
Atif Aslam (Musician)
“On August 14 everyone will say ‘Pakistan Zindabad’ but I will say ‘Fight For Pakistan, Survive for Pakistan and Live for Pakistan!’
Our country has a lot of problems these days and we should try and make things better in whatever way we can. We should get out on the roads and help clean up our beautiful country. It is about time issues like these be addressed. Everyone is too busy thinking and pondering over the political situation in the country, in which they have no say or power. They should concentrate on the things and areas where they can possibly make a difference. Somethings are in our control, such as not polluting our cities. These are the kind of things we can do something about and we should.
I would tell the average person in Pakistan to get over politics since we cannot do anything about it and concentrate on something we have some control over. On August 14 we should all contribute to the betterment of our society in whatever little way we can and we should begin from home. Anything that can make your neighbourhood or your street a better place. If we all do our little bit individually, it will make a big difference and definitely make Pakistan a better place.
I will drive around on August 14 since I love seeing so many people with Pakistani jhandas.I want to go out and see what people are upto and be a part of the excitement and happiness!”
Saquib Malik (Director)
“I think good times are on their way towards our country. So, gear up for some good time ahead and I am sure it’s going to be a fun ride. We have had our share of bad days and we will soon have a new tomorrow.
People talk about doing a lot of things on the 14th of August; they put up flags, sing national songs but as soon as the day is over, the flag suffers its fate on the roads. The best thing is to put up a flag but learn to respect it too. It is of great importance to us and we should never forget that. However, the most important thing is to pray for peace in our country because we are in dire need of it.
I don’t have any special plans for the day. I might just sleep half of the day and spend the other half watching television. But along with that, I will hope things in our country get better with time.”
Rahat Fateh Ali Khan (Musician)
“This is my country,my nation and these are all my brothers and sisters. I want us all to come together to make our beloved Pakistan a better place to live in. Abhi waqt bohat nazuk ja raha hay aur humay chahiyay keh hum politics ko zara sa side par karein aur ye sochain keh hum apnay mulk ki image kaisay behtar kar saktay hain. We need to concentrate on our international image because that is very important and pivitol for a country’s progress.
Hum sub ko chaiyaya keh hum apna apna role zimewari say ada karein. If politicians concentrate on their job and do it well and we all play our parts responsibly, Pakistan will hopefully get on the right track. We all need to unite in this effort and also act as responsible citizens on an individual level. We all have to support each other and work together for a better Pakistan. Mein tou yehi kahoonga keh hum sub mil jul kar apna gham bantain aur dua karein apnay mulk ki behteri kay liye.
We have sacrificed so much to get this homeland and we should learn to appreciate this Azadi and this country.
This August 14 I am going to be working on my upcoming album and will be praying that next year on August 14 we have a lot to celebrate and be proud of!”
link: The News International - No. 1 English Newspaper from Pakistan
Noteworthy tunes Ahmed Jahanzeb
Ahmed Jahanzeb is yet another pop singer from across the border wanting to make an impression in India. AJ, as he is often called, is different though. Armed with a very distinct style, soft and captivating, the singer-composer, whether he is performing live or crooning from the cool confines of a studio, leaves a mark with a voice that stands out in times when melody has become a rarity.
The latest example of this is the sound track of the recent Pakistani film released in India, Khuda Ke Liye. Jahanzeb not only crooned some of the numbers for it, he also gave music to the critically-acclaimed film. AJ gives credit to his training in classical music for this. “I am lucky to have classical music ingrained in my system from an early age. Can you speak any language well without having proper knowledge of its grammar? To understand the commas, pauses and full-stops of music you have to have classical training,” he maintains. That it reflects in his work shows in the impressive list of his hits — Ek Baar Kaho Tum Meri Ho, Aap Ki Yaad Aati Rahi, Mujhe Pyaar Chaahiye, Tu Jo Nahi, Sheeshay Ke Mahal and Kaho Ek Din, which happens to be his personal favourite.
For AJ, also called the Wonder Boy in his home country Pakistan because he first appeared in a TV show at five and cut his first album at nine, sound grooming has been the essence of his musical journey.
“It helped me a lot because it made me a confident artiste. A lot of singers begin their journey with fanfare but fail to reach their destination. I always wanted to reach out to my audience,” he quips.
AJ’s early initiation meant that he matured fast, developed a style that enchanted the youngsters in Pakistan, and importantly, drove the fear of public appearance from his mind. “I never had mike fear or stage fright. I take pride in my grooming and I must say I am lucky to have met the right people in my formative years as a singer.” No wonder the 30-year-old from Karachi admits to be in love with the reality shows.
In India recently to launch his album by Tips Laut Aao, AJ hoped his effort would be well received. “It is a team effort. I have worked very hard. I thank all my colleagues for giving me this opportunity. Sameer has written some great numbers and Sachin Gupta’s compositions are soul-stirring. I’ve given my best and I hope the audience likes it,” says AJ, who describes remixes as essentially a result that comes when your creativity is “nil.”
Faisal Kapadia takes the Olympic spirit to school!
The Olympic ceremony may have officially opened in Beijing but for children of a highly prestigious school in Karachi, the torch had come back for them via none other than Strings vocalist and official torch-bearer Faisal Kapadia.
It was just another day as they were all gathered in the assembly area for their morning prayers until they noticed Faisal step up and take over. This is the first time the Olympic torch visited Pakistan and Strings were the proud participants of the Olympic relay. “I was asked to share the torch with the kids and it turned out so well.”
Morning routine soon became all excitement as the kids got to be part of the Olympic spirit. It was like a small Olympics relay at their school because they made the kids hold the torch and run with it passing it onto the next person standing in line. “The kids enjoyed it so much because they actually got to hold the real torch in their hands. Though, they were not really aware of the importance of it but they knew it was BIG to have it in our country.”
Faisal was very excited to share it with the children because the kids should have the opportunity to experience it too… now they have a chance to do so. “When we were kids, we never had the chance of getting a glimpse of it… forget holding it. And, now when we can… so why not share it with the younger lot,” shared Faisal.
link: The News International - No. 1 English Newspaper from Pakistan
LAHORE: Actor Firdaus Jamal has turned into a singer by completing his first music album, ready to be released. He has written the lyrics for the album himself while the album includes Pashto tracks.
The composition of the music album had been prepared by Bobby Wazir.
Music lifts our spirits and has always been an integral part of our celebrations on Independence Day. From “Jeevay Pakistan” to “Dil, Dil Pakistan”, when we hear those tunes, our hearts fill with patriotic pride and nostalgia. Music has the ability to tug at our heart strings and so it is no surprise that our musicians are adulated the way they are. We take a look at four stars who are not only savvy at making music but also at making the most out of music…
Shehzad Roy
Shehzad Roy debuted on the Pakistani music scene in 1995 and what a debut it was! The young singer garnered an instant fan following with the teenyboppers and soon his songs were to be heard everywhere. Shahzad continues to be an innovative musician, writing lyrics that are fun but relevant to the times we live in. This is why his album, Buri Baat Hai, released in 2005, still sounds fresh with its tongue-in-cheek songs and entertaining videos, and his latest album, Qismat Apnay Haat Mein is flying off the shelves after an unusual launch at the Juvenile Jail in Karachi and a controversial video of the song ‘Laga Reh’.
In a sense, Shahzad can be credited with initiating the first high-profile international exchanges. He has sung with Sukhbir and Shan as well as having worked with Bryan Adams. In fact, Shahzad is responsible for bringing Bryan to Pakistan as part of a charity concert a few years ago.
But more than music, it is Shahzad's dedication to his NGO, the Zindagi Trust, which is commendable. The trust now has 25 schools across the country and it uses an innovative method to entice children, who would otherwise be on the street, to attend school - the children receive a small monetary amount for each day of attendance. Shahzad was awarded the Tamgha-i-Imtiaz in 2004, for his efforts to help the underprivileged children of Pakistan and the Sitara-e-Eisaar in recognition of his trust's work in the earthquake affected areas.
With his boyish good looks, his witty songs and his worthy cause, Shahzad Roy truly embodies the spirit of young and independent Pakistan, striving to make a difference.
Atif Aslam
It is, by now, a well-known story of how Atif Aslam became a singer - while singing for some friends at the college canteen, he was persuaded to participate in a singing competition on Independence Day celebrations. He performed, won and blew everyone away by the sheer magnitude of his voice.
In 2004, Atif released his first album Jal Pari, which became a hit thanks to the much-disputed yet highly-acclaimed hits, Aadat, Woh Lamhey, and Dil Harey. Then followed Doorie, a very filmi album by the standards of Atif Aslam fans, which still managed to produce 3, if not 4, super hit songs. Atif’s latest album, Hungaami Halat was released early this year and although it has done well, it has not produced hits anywhere near the cult status achieved by Aadat, Doorie and the like from previous albums.
Atif has lent his voice to many songs for Bollywood films and this has increased his international fan-following by multitudes. This year, Atif received the Tamgha-e-Imtiaz for his services in the field of music.
Ali Zafar
Aptly titled the Prince of Pop, Ali is perhaps the most versatile young artiste around. Musician, actor, painter and model, it is no surprise that he won the Youth Icon Award at the Lux Style Awards in 2007. His 2003 debut, Huqa Pani, won him an award for Best Album at the 2004 LSAs.
Ali's voice has often been compared to that of the legendary Kishore Kumar's and that suave voice may be the secret behind his tremendous success... that, and the fact that he is extremely good-looking - he was rated as one of the 10 sexiest men in Asia by British magazine, Eastern Eye! Ali proved just how good a musician he was recently in a live performance - he held his own against trained classical singers as well as musicians belonging to other genres.
Although it has been almost two years since his last album, Masty, was released, Ali remains in the media eye thanks to his many endorsements.
Hadiqa Kiyani
Undoubtedly, the best female pop singer in the country, Hadiqa started her career as a VJ for one of the first music chart shows in the fledgling entertainment industry. After her debut with Raaz in 1995, Hadiqa went on to release many more albums - most of them going multi-platinum.
Always willing to experiment, whether it was with her music or her looks, Hadiqa continued to evolve and change with each album. A fresh look with each new video kept her in the news. Her long coats paired with trousers became her signature in the 90s.
Hadiqa is one of the few artistes who has not only collaborated with many other local musicians but has also performed internationally at concerts featuring international stars such as Lionel Richie, Wet Wet Wet, Lisa Stansfield and the Brand New Heavies.
In 2006, Hadiqa was awarded the Tamgha-e-Imtiaz for her services in the field of music. While Hadiqa has not been very musically active this year, her collaboration with various artistes in the widely aired track “Yeh Hum Naheen” keeps her on our TV screens.
Celebrities are like twinkling stars when looked at the sky. But there is a difference. Some stars are very prominent and can be seen every night. Others glimmer here and there.Similarly, just a few days back one such shining star launched his album. Launching videos and albums have become a norm. The planning, too, is stereotype. Book a local hotel or an atrium and bang! Your album is launched. Shehzad Roy, one of the most serious minded musicians came up with a unique and offbeat idea that depicts patriotism. He didn’t go around inviting the top notchers - the who’s who of the city. He went and launched his ‘Qismat Apnay Haat Mein’ at the juvenile jail arranged and released by AAG the youth channel of GEO TV. Accompanying him was the comic duo, Azfar and Mani and last but not the least – the person who brings a smile to your face the minute you meet him - Faisal Qureshi.
The space was limited but the effort was great making it a memorable event for not just the juvenile detainees but also the press and few invited guests. For some time now, Shehzad has been wanting to revive the school at the juvenile detention but so far he has not been able to attain what he desired. “Hopefully, it will happen. I hope they make the situation better for children in the juvenile section. I really appreciate the co operation of the IG Prisons and the DIG that they agreed to launch my album here,” added Shehzad in a quick chat session with MAG. “In due course, it may happen. I mean the re establishment of the school.” This is the first time that something of this nature, in a detention centre or jail, has ever been presented.
It was a well-organised event. The launch of Shehzad’s latest offering was well received by everyone. The spirit of
sharing was communicable among the people present. There was also a slapstick performance by the favourites of youth - Azfar and Mani. But the show stealer, however, was the video, screened within the environs. ‘Laga Rae’ was the video which had everyone, either tapping their foot or rhythmically moving their heads to the thumping analogue beat.Later, hi-tea was served and enjoyed by everyone. Something that caught my eye and touched my heart was that while the hi-tea items were quite a few, they were not only devoured by the guests but were also distributed amongst the inmates - children in the juvenile detention. It was exemplary. Way to go, Shehzad, Geo and AAG! Laga Rae…
We have started an organization by the name of YBDA i.e.Young Blood Donors Association.....
Our aim is to create an awareness about blood donation.
We say that
"Donate your blood to save lives and make a difference!!!".
Even the educated do not know of their moral obligation to donate blood and are much less aware of the fact that donating blood helps rejuvenate the body’s blood production mechanism,which has many hidden benefits.
Unfortunately, there is a serious lack of volunteers to donate blood and 30 percent of professional blood donors are HBV,HCV or HIV positive.Unscreened or improperly screened blood is the main factor involved in person-to-person transmission of lethal viruses.Volunteer blood is safe,helps improve donor lives and gives time to blood banks to keep an inventory of blood,plasma and platelets, which allows hundreds of bags of blood to be made available for use in emergencies.
Blood is very important in many medical situations such as serious accidents, organ transplants,major surgery and supporting patients with blood-related disease like haemophilia and thalassaemia.
Most hospitals and medical centres are always having a shortage of blood due to a lack of donors which often results in delayed surgeries and treatment, which can lead to complications and even death in patients.
Just as you would want aid from other in times of emergency, it is important that we help to save the lives of others as well.
Our Organizations' 1st Blood Donation Drive will be held on Tuesday,26th of August 2008 at Jinnah Post Graduate Medical Centre Blood Bank...Timings:10am onwards....
Your donations will be stored & given to the patients during the holy month of Ramadan..!!!
We kindly request you all to come and donate your blood to save lives and make a difference because you people reallllly can!!!!!
Thanks
Faizan Javed
Ali Haider sings ‘Jeeyay Mera Pakistan’
While some of our musicians joined hands to sing Pakistan’s National Anthem recently, some are still relying on their individual songs this Independence Day. Ali Haider is one such singer who is releasing a patriotic song called ‘Jeeyay Mera Pakistan’. He has even altered his name by adding Mohammad before Ali. Our sources reveal that he plans to launch all his spiritual and patriotic projects under this name. For the rest, he is simply Ali Haider.
Coming back towards the song, this is being shot in different cities of the country at their important locations say, Faisal Mosque, Islamabad; Badshahi Masjid, Lahore; Mazar-e-Quaid, Karachi and in the northern areas. Sounds like a five minute tour guide of Pakistan. The video is being directed by Nadeem Kazmi who has previously directed Shehzad Roy’s ‘Khudi Ka Sir-e-Niha’.
The melody of ‘Jeeyay Mera Pakistan’ is by M. Arshad and he has used a number of classical instruments such as tabla, nal and sarodh. It has an overall mellow feel attached to it. This is not the first time Ali Haider has come up with a patriotic song but let’s see how much he has improved over the years. Plus, we still have to figure out if changing his name really helps him!
link: The News International - No. 1 English Newspaper from Pakistan
From the Pakistani land of Sufi singers, we have yet another talented singer knocking at the doors of Indian film industry. With his album Laut Aao, Ahmed Jehanzeb is making his entry into the Indian music world. Dreaming of creating better music, this young singer is all set to kiss success through his seer hard work and dedication. Sabir Rahman has shared some melodious moment with this talented singer and composer.
Q. What is special about your new album Laut Aao?
A. You will get the different shades of vocals, music and everything according to the taste of today’s trend. Many singers in Bollywood bear the influence of the legends in their voice. But I have a different tonal quality and it does not match with anyone. The album is also blessed with powerful lyrics. It is melodious and soothing to the ears.
Q. Is it a romantic album?
A. Yes, I would call it a romantic album.
Q. While working on the album, which audience did you have in your mind, Indian or Pakistani?
A. I only had Indian audience in my mind because Pakistani audience have not reached that state now and have gone towards more serious kind of things. The style of music across the border is very different from that of Bollywood.
Q. How did music happen to you?
A. During my time music was not given so much encouragement but my father was always fond of music. Ever since I was born I had all the music instruments in front of me. I was always attracted towards music and wanted to learn and play all the instruments. I loved the harmonium and one day my Abba asked me if I liked harmonium or not and when I said yes, he gifted me a keyboard on my fourth birthday. He made me rehearse with him and he never forced me to learn music. I started my journey at the age of four and at nine I released my first album named Ahmed Jehanzeb – The Wonder Boy.
Q. What kind of songs did the album have?
A. It contained national based songs (Kaumi songs). These kinds of songs were more in trend; individual singing was not in trend at that time. My Abba made me familiar with the stage from the very tender age of mine, so that I don’t get nervous or hesitate in facing audience while performing.
Q. At what age did you start your journey of stage shows?
A. I started my journey at the age of eleven or twelve. I used to experiment singing different kinds of songs then.
Q. What kind of songs did you sing?
A. I used to sing ghazals as well as the hit songs of that time like “Papa Kehte Hai…” and all other Bollywood hit numbers.
Q. When did you release your second album?
A. My second album got released in 2001 with the name Parastish, which came after a gap of 15 years from my first album. In the meantime I was doing stage shows all over the world.
Q. What kind of songs did it contain?
A. It had compilation of solid classical numbers. It was a big hit and gave me a lot of fame.
Q. How did coming to India happen?
A. There was a song of mine in my second album Parastish which became famous through internet. Then one day Sanjay Dutt called me when he had organized a Tsunami relief fund show and he wanted me to participate there. Two singers came at that time from Pakistan, one was Strings and the other was me and the other celebs for the show were film stars from Pakistan like Meera, Md. Rana and all. During this time I met Rajiv Sivani who was vice president of Tips.
Q. Do you feel that you are lucky?
A. I feel that I am lucky because Khuda gave me opportunities and I met right people at the right time. It is my good luck that I met someone like Rajiv who gave me a chance. I got all the facilities from the company while recording with them. They provide me very good directors, lyrics, crew members etc.
Q. You have given music in Khuda Ke Liye, any other films after that?
A. I had composed five songs for Khuda Ke Liye and I have sung those songs, too. This film changed the whole scenario of Pakistani film and no other film is being made yet to match that one. And if we talk about music it has to be something which will be cherished and enjoyed by all for a long time.
Q. Any film offers in India?
A. Who would not like to work in Bollywood movies but as of now I want to concentrate in composing good music only.
Revival of the National Anthem
Leading musicians come together to breathe life and colour into our 'Qaumi Tarana'
Saba Sartaj K, Karachi
Pakistan's national anthem - our 'Qaumi Tarana' has been a part of our lives since it was first aired on the radio in 1954. We've sung it in school as children, been inspired by it through our youth and sought strength from it during times of turmoil. It is an awe-inspiring and respect evoking anthem, but has also become a tad bit impersonal and intimidating for the youth of the country, especially in the turbulent times we live in.
Geo Television has now taken the initiative to redefine the spirit behind the National Anthem with a fresher and more personal melody. An anthem that will appeal to the youth and the whole nation. Something that is catchy and light yet retaining the essence of the original anthem whose verses were composed by the renowned poet of Pakistan, Abul Asar Hafeez Jullundhri, while the tune was composed by Ahmed G. Chagla, the well known musician and composer.
Notable composer Mujahid Hussain has arranged the new and vibrant version of the anthem. He has tried to keep the melody light and more musical, as composed to the previous melody, which was more daunting. The reason behind this revival is to give our national anthem a sound which is more musical and has a more 'sing along' quality to it, so it moves out of just National and school assemblies and into our daily lives.
The musical instruments, melody, and composition in this new version of the anthem, while staying true to the original version, take new meaning and evoke new emotions - that of love, belonging and togetherness. Getting together 40 of the most eminent musicians and singers in Pakistan, from all the provinces and schools of music has given a new meaning to the anthem and the nationalist feelings it evokes.
The feelings of unity and tantalizing energy were very tangible when one went to see the recording of this magnum opus project. With representatives from every province in the country to representatives of almost every gharana of music in Pakistan, the exciting mix of artists and the fact that the house of pop, rock, classical music and ghazals were coming together to make a new version of the national anthem was just electrifying.
"Its great. I'm honored and this is our contribution to Pakistani people," said Immu of Fuzon. "We can only give a little and this is it. The anthem is very relevant. We listen to the anthem very less nowadays so if you do listen to it you remember the feelings of patriotism. The anthem is in Farsi so it sounds even more beautiful - especially if you understand the words," he added.
While at the shooting of the anthem, one realized how much hard work, dedication and planning has gone into composing, singing, recording and shooting the anthem and putting this novel and brilliant idea, which was the brain child of Imran Aslam, the President of Geo Television, Badar Ikram, Head of Geo Entertainment and Ayub Khawar the producer of the show. While there were 40 singers in all who came together to record this anthem in Lahore and Karachi, not all, unfortunately, could make it to the shooting of the video, which included important names like Tina Sani, Rahat Fateh Ali Khan and Shafqat Salamat Ali Khan, who lent their distinguished vocals to the anthem but could not be a part of the video.
It was interesting to see how all these artists, from different backgrounds, walks of life and sensibilities came together on one platform to perform. Everyone was in high spirits and it felt like one big joyous occasion. All the ladies, looking pretty in white were seen sitting together around a number of fans to keep their make-up and hair looking fresh, exchanging make-up tips and discussing clothes. The young artists were seen respectfully embracing their seniors and made it a point to rush to them first and pay their respects. Shafqat Amanat Ali rushed in and before he could have a word with anyone, went dashing in to touch the feet of his uncle Ustad Hamid Ali Khan. It was wonderful seeing all the great artists of the country come together for such a good cause and seeing them all so enthusiastic and cheerful just made one feel privileged and proud at being a Pakistani.
"It feels really good to be a part of this," Shafqat said, "its such a prestigious project and when I was told of the concept of reviving the anthem, I wanted to be a part of it. If it is successful and if people like it, all our names will go down in history. This is history being made right here!" he said. To which his uncle Ustaad Hamid Ali Khan added, "Yeh aik bari achi baat hai, qaum ko jazba dilanay kay liay hay. We should thank God for our house. Our country is our home. We are born here and we will die here so we need to give something back to it," he concluded.
We have such immense talent in the country, many larger then life personalities and such a beautiful and diverse culture. Putting all of that and the old and the young under one roof and weaving magic is what this project has achieved. It is a fusion of folk, pop, rock and eastern classical for a noble and national cause.
"It is the revival of the National Anthem," said Ayub Khawar, the producer of the new anthem. "Even today when the anthem is played on television or cinemas you can't understand the vocals or the video. We wanted to give it a fresh new look and sound which is understandable as well as make it a little mellow and soothing so people can enjoy it, hum it and sing it and not just associate it with official events and occasions," he added.
This new anthem is like a face-lift for the previous one, which due to poor sound and picture quality is hardly distinguishable. It is a harmonious rendering of the three-stanza composition with a tune based on eastern classical and pop music, where the beat of the tabla fuses with the subtle and soothing strumming of the sitar and the various other western and classical instruments.
"I loved the idea when I heard it. The situation in the country is so tense right now and it will work perfectly to boost the morale of the nation. Iss say hum sub may jazba jagay ga" said Shahida Mini, one of the most popular singers in the country. "I am proud to have been born in Pakistan. A lot of sacrifices had to be made for us to get this homeland and we all need to come together and work hard for it. Katray katray say darya banta hai. We all need to contribute. This is just a small little contribution my fellow musicians and I are making and it's a wonderful idea."
The studio where the anthem was being recorded was buzzing as all the artists came together - but as is custom, very fashionably late. But then, its better to show up late then to not show up at all, which was feared of Fakhir when he hadn't showed up even past 8pm, whereas the artists were requested to come in by 12 pm! This is definitely one of the major drawbacks in our entertainment industry today, where anything starting at the stated time is but a distant and almost unobtainable dream. Ali Azmat and Jawad Ahmed came in a close second to Fakhir when they came waltzing in at 7 pm. Khawar Jawed, one must add, was one of the first to arrive, that too with his newly wedded bride in tow, and sat very patiently and sweetly throughout the wait that his other respected colleagues put him through. Ustad Hamid Ali Khan was also another singer who takes punctuality very seriously and was there waiting for his juniors to make an appearance for many an hour. Not once did one hear him complain or throw a diva like tantrum which would have been the case had it been any of the reletively newer bunch such as Ali Azmat or Fakhir, who are tremendously talented but equally challenged when it comes to matters of punctuality.
Despite all the waiting in the unpleasant heat of Karachi, the whole experience was definitely worth the while. The grandeur of the project and various leading musicians coming together in a single collaborative effort to revive the national anthem is heart warming, and the timing couldn't be more perfect. The national anthem is tremendously significant for every nation and one wonders why this step wasn't taken earlier. A childrens' version of the anthem as well as an instrumental version of the anthem, with a majestic orchestra are also in the works which will be released subsequently after the release of this video.
With the present tense situation in the country and waning morale of the nation, the release of this beautifully orchestrated national anthem is a wise and timely move and is sure to strike a chord and evoke to feelings of Jazba and Junoon in everyone.
Watch this new, revived version of the National Anthem on August 10 on all Geo Network channels, and kick start your Independence Day celebrations by singing along to 'Pak Sar Zameen Shaad Baad…!'
Shafqat sings with Fuzon for the national anthem!
Geo TV's taping of Pakistan's national anthem, which is being touted as the revival of the national anthem – was held on August 5 with a large number of singers in attendance. While the recording brought together stars from all musical genres ranging from Ustad Hamid Ali Khan to Shahida Mini, it also united the split up members of Fuzon.
Shafqat Amanat Ali and his ex-band mates from Fuzon, Shallum and Immu, were all together on the same stage to perform the anthem. One would have expected fireworks, but both Shallum and Shafqat came across as being cordial and happy about working together with each other. "It feels great to come together with Shafqat again, he's a great guy and accomplished singer." said Shallum.
On being asked if they plan to work together again, Shallum said "We might do a project together in the next few months, and we're looking forward to it."
Shafqat, on being asked about his feelings about working with Fuzon diplomatically stated, "I'm a singer and an artist and I want to work with everyone." Stay tuned for news of if this project does make it to the light of day!
link: The News International - No. 1 English Newspaper from Pakistan
Pakistani singer Ali Zafar talks to Masala! about music and film offers from Bollywood
He is young, immensely talented, famous and has a loyal fan following. He has been offered roles in both Pakistani and Indian movies but at the moment Ali Zafar says, music is his calling.
Why do you think your debut album Huqa Pani was such a major hit?
Because I was honest to myself.
You are a musician, painter, singer and model. How do you juggle it all?
I mainly concentrate on singing. I paint only for myself now. I'm not a pro model, I just endorse products for being who I am. And I haven't taken up any acting project for a long time because of time constraints. Plus nothing came up which could interest me to that extent.
You've received dozens of offers from Bollywood both as an actor and as a singer. Are you considering any?
Believe it or not I'm more of an artist than a star. I would rather do what I'm passionate about. I was offered a movie by Mahesh Bhatt, then I was to be cast alongside Amitabh Bachchan and another one supposedly had Anupam Kher in the role of my father and some solo launch projects too with fresh cast. But I still haven't come across a project which compels me to feel strongly about it.
How did you feel when Himesh copied your song Rangeen and included it in the film Aashiq Banaye Aapne?
Well, copying can never be justified. I just wish he had asked me once, I would have given it to him anyway, just for one of his caps.
Your latest album Masty was yet again a smasher after Channo. What do we expect from Ali Zafar next?
I have set up my own studio at home. Very soon you'll get to hear lots of supersonic stuff in my next album.
Eastern Eye, a leading British-Asian paper, has rated you as one of the 10 Sexiest Men in Asia. How does it feel?
Feels very sexy.
Link: Masala.Com
According To The Details , Pakistani Pop Star Has Reached Pakistan After Shooting The Video Of "Move Your Body Now"
ENTHRALLING the city of Chennai, Strings, the duo from across the LOC set the stage on fire at the showdown to the IIPM culturals. The first concert after the launch of their latest album, 'Koi Aanay Wala Hai', Bilal Maqsood(guitar) and Faisal Kapadia (vocals) believed that Chennai is a great place to do some live gigging. Expresso caught up with them.Bilal Maqsood
Your first song, 'Sar Kiye Ya Pahar', became popular in India, especially after it was played in the clubs. But what is your take on remixing original songs. Does it lose its flavour in the process?
All we can say is that when you do it, it becomes a new form of music. The people who make the original piece never think of remixing it. Earlier, there was a special form of music that was meant for the clubs. Now it’s different. Every popular song finds its way to the console. But the life of a remixed song is never as long as the original.
You have worked with Euphoria, Hariharan and many other Indian musicians. Do you see music as a key factor for building bridges between nations?
Absolutely. And we are glad we are a part of that process. This year has been great for us. We have done quite a bit of travelling and a few movies as well. What we have noticed is that things are getting better between the two countries. The governments are doing what they can and music is doing what it can.
When you started in 1989, in college, as a pop-rock band, doing such music was considered a bad trait in Pakistan. What did it take for you to get to this stage?
True. When we began, it was testing times in Pakistan. There was just one state television and a radio station, which never promoted any sort of music that we did. It’s different now. But we struggled, as we had to prove ourselves. But we believed that if we were honest about our work and that we would take off.
You are the ambassadors of peace in the UNICEF. You have also done a video on the Beirut crisis. What about a project on the India- Pakistan peace process?
We always wanted to look at the India-Pakistan relationship in a positive way unlike how many people see it now. It’s about coming together. Why not, we might do a project soon.
Being the brand ambassadors of Gibson, you use only their guitars for stage shows. Do you do it because of the profitability factor or because you are hooked to the brand as musicians?
A true musician never looks at just the profitability factor. Gibson has been a dream come true for us. It’s like getting the Nobel Prize in peace. Growing up, we’ve seen the big acts in the world playing Gibson and we are only happy to be representing the name.
It’s the third time you are performing in Chennai. Tell me one thing that you find different in Chennai when it comes to audience response.
We keep touring India very often. Perhaps the one thing that we find different in Chennai and all over South India is that the crowd really loves live music. People, we believe, go out of the way to listen to someone playing live.
Coming to Chennai, did you get a chance to listen to any Tamil film music?
Actually, yes. We have heard some film music and we absolutely love AR Rahman. But unfortunately we never got a chance to listen to the local bands here.
Urdu music is traversing borders these days. Who do you think is the generation-next in Hindi pop-rock music?
There’s lots. Pakistan has a bundle of young talents as Urdu pop is becoming more popular unlike film music, which is hardly heard. Two names that we would say are those of Asif’s and Jal’s. In fact everyone is doing a good job.
And we want to say, ‘Do music because you feel it from the heart. Don’t run after the money’.
Link: NewIndPress.Com
| He is known for his firebrand image. Singer Abhijeet Bhattacharya is also known for the strong emotional bond that he forms with the contestants he judges on talent hunt shows. But, it was this emotional streak that landed him in a controversy, when recently, he objected to bringing back a non-Indian contestant Musarrat through a wild card entry instead of an Indian. And predictably so, he paid a heavy price for calling a spade a spade. But not anymore, he says in a no-holds-barred tête-à -tête... Have you sorted out the differences over Pakistani singer Musarrat? Let me put it this way, why should I become a reformer when no one minds being short changed by what is happening in the industry today. I am not the kind of judge who’d accept Rs 10,000-Rs 20,000 and sit on talent hunt shows that’re being dictated by shoddy scripts written to push up the TRPs. I gave up Rs 70 lakhs to fight for our Indian contestants who are far more talented than the whole world put together. But I will not fight anymore. If contestants’ parents are not bothered about their children’s future, which is being robbed by non-Indians, who am I to stop them? You really feel our kids’ future is being robbed by participants from abroad? Hundred per cent. Just watch when the auditions happen, where kids stand in long lines for days hoping to get selected. But participants from Pakistan are put on a flight and given direct entry into these shows, why? Kya khasiyat hai inme? Hindustan ke galli-galli mein Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan mil jayega, but unki koi kadar nahin. Par ek Pakistan se aa gaya toh humne usse sar pe utha liya. You don’t think there is any talent in Pakistan? Aatif Aslam, Rahat Fateh Ali Khan and hundred others are nothing compared to our singers like Javed Ali, Soham, Bulli, Raja Hassan, but no one wants to give them a chance. They say I am biased if I reprimand Musarrat – because he’s a Pakistani, but they don’t mind if I shout at Raja Hassan because he is an Indian. What sort of hypocrisy is this? You have been very vocal over the choice of Musarrat? I have always said that our children should be given first preference. But desh ki maryada ko dao pe lagana aaj kal fashion ho gaya hai. I don’t know why do we have such a complex when it comes to shoving Pakistan back to where it belongs – the other side of the border? But not everyone agrees with your stand? Yes, I have been fighting alone for seven-eight years in this industry. But it’s a shame that as Indians we have such a low regard for our nationality when it comes to protecting our kids’ welfare. So now, I too have decided not to make a hue and cry about it. What upsets you the most about the music industry today? No other country will allow foreigners to work and earn so freely as we allow them here. They come here, earn crores, build assets, but does our government bother to check if they pay tax? Why are the Advanis, Karats, Mulayams and Kalams, all quiet over this? If I want to make a living in the US or the UK I need a working permit, while in Pakistan we are not even allowed to enter the country. Then why are we so large-hearted in the glamour and entertainment industry? |
Shehzad Roy's 'Laga Reh' is storming its way to the top of the charts
Everyone has tuned in to the song: students, bloggers, executives, housewives, housemaids and even lawyers!
Fatima Zakir, Karachi
Shehzad Roy's latest video 'Laga Reh' is out and is creating waves on every music channel these days. The tune of the song is very catchy, and it's an Ahsan Rahim video, probably the snazziest he ever made but the real secret to 'Laga Reh's success is that the song and the video say exactly what most Pakistanis feel right now. 'Laga Reh' is a laugh out loud depiction of the what ails Pakistani society at the moment with a satirical touch that is making people across the country tune in to music channels.
The video kicks off with Shehzad singing for a cheering crowd and he is thrown off the stage as a politician mounts to speak to the people who are chanting for him. He then converses with a buzurg on a bus hurtling hap hazardly down the road (just as our buses do) they wonder about what is happening with this country (mulk kaise yeh chale ga) until the bus bangs into a rickshaw. It's the perfect depiction of how Pakistan keeps on starting up over and over again as a state, hits a road block and goes back to square one.
With 'Laga Reh', Shehzad Roy has come out of his lover boy of pop costume and has stepped into the shoes of a common man, asking questions about what's going on at a time when we are all wondering the same about Pakistan. Pakistanis are loving it!
"The lyrics, the music, the video… everything is so refreshing," says Samrah Aftab, a content executive at a PR firm. "The first time I watched the video I couldn't help smiling at the lyrics but watching it again and again made me realise it's not just to enjoy but to actually think about it."
Ahsan Rahim has the magic to illustrate the most serious ideas in a satirical way. They don't hit you hard in the face but are an eye opener even as they make you laugh.
Suraiya Qadir, a housewife, thinks that the way Shehzad Roy has incorporated the current lawyer's controversy and the indifference of people towards the false promises of our leaders in his video is accurate.
"That's who we really are," Suraiya tells Instep Today. "We have inequality and chaos in our country but don't have the courage to speak up for our rights."
The higher income classes are tuning in to this video and that is because instead of employing visuals of glamorized models and made up men, this video characterizes people we see everyday. The buzurg, the bus driver, the lawyer, the rioters and of course the Americans whose presence looms large over our country. Ali Azmat plays the character of a common man who cheers for his leaders in hope of a better political regime ignoring the mistakes they have made in the past. The ambitious chunk of us can entirely relate to Ali when he asks, 'To kia himmat haar doon?' The point is not just to hope but to actually stand up and do something about it.
And this is what is making people from the lower income brackets watch the video too.
"It seemed as if the singer has put forward the deep down feelings of the entire nation," says Shamim, a woman who works as a cleaning lady (maasi). "Our leaders promise us peace and prosperity and we fall prey to their vicious schemes. We are not concerned what they decide about the judiciary but when the city comes under fire because of this crisis… we suffer. A single day off work means reduction of your salary. But, can we really do something about it? Nearly all our leaders have been tried and tested, and we can't expect anything fruitful from anyone."
Instep Today also found it important to speak to a lawyer. How is the legal community reacting to the part of the video where Shehzad Roy sees a lawyer trying to burn tyres on the road?
"I am a lawyer but I must say that the video is well shot and executed," says Usman Jamil, a lawyer in Lahore. "My interpretation of the video is that the uproar lawyers are trying to create is not gotten shape yet. We are still unable to ignite the fire through our struggle but there is hope things will get better soon."
Perhaps the biggest achievement of 'Laga Reh' is that it mocks what is happening but abstains from carrying it to the point when it becomes offensive. That is why where some people are taking 'Laga Reh' as a wakeup call, others are just watching it for fun.
Qudsia Noori, an A Level student from Lyceum School says: "I am not a Shehzad Roy fan but I love 'Laga Reh'. The music is so different and the way he added dialogues in between is too good! My favorite one is 'Kuch na kar kuch na kar tu… sab kuch Allah par chhor de… bas Allah hi tera hafiz hai'. (Don't do anything and leave it God. He will take care of everything). The plus point is the video that is such a cool representation of the anarchy in our country. I am not really aware of the political situation around but this video made me realize how indifferent we all are towards our future."
With this we can also say that Shehzad Roy likes to be surrounded with controversies. He has pushed the envelope of pop music before. Remember his song 'Saali'? Some people went ballistic over his use of the word 'saali' which was not meant to be distasteful in any way. The song was a hit because it did strike a chord. 'Saali' is commonly used in our everyday vocabulary. But while 'Saali' was a minor affront to the sensibilities of some Pakistanis, Shehzad Roy has pushed the envelope to a whole new level with 'Laga Reh'.
Even the blogs have started talking about the song. According to the discussion on www.pakmusic.net, a user has commented, "Ye video bohat saheeh time par banai hai kyonke hum sab aisey hi ho gaye hain. Bilkul isi tarah hum sab tamasha daikhty hain. Ghalat kaam hota dekh kar hum usay rokna chahtey hi nahi balke kehtey hain laga reh. Is mulk ko leadership say ziada jazbay ki zaroorat hai." (This is the right time to release such a video because this is how we all have become. We believe in watching the show from a distance and don't want to step forward to curb the misconducts of the people. In fact, we let it happen. More than leadership, this country needs passion to bring change).
Hats off to Shehzad Roy for coming up with such a brilliant concept and an upbeat video. 'Laga Reh' shows how music can get into the core of politics and made us think. 'Laga Reh' is the first video from Shehzad's album Qismat Apne Haat Mein. It will be interesting to see what his next video will be. Here's hoping he picks a song that is as revolutionary and rebellious as 'Laga Reh'. Only such a song will be able to outdo the massive hit his last offering has become. More please Shehzad. We want to face more truths while being entertained!
Link: The News International - No. 1 English Newspaper from Pakistan
No strings attached
They croon soulful vocals, strum the guitar effortlessly and can give John Abraham a run for his money. Every girl’s dream we would think. But apparently, every guy’s too.
Bilal Maqsood and Faisal Kapadia of Strings need no introduction. The internationally acclaimed Pakistani band burst onto the Indian music scene in the year 2000 with their hit single Sar Kiye Yeh Pahaar and have been creating history ever since. It’s been an incredible journey for the talented duo who is riding high on the success of their brand new album Koi Aanay Wala Hai, which has been released after a span of four years.
Says Faisal Kapadia, lead vocalist, “Our latest album is a reinvention of sorts. Bilal and I wanted a sound that was fresh and different from whatever we have done in the past. As artistes, we have matured tremendously over the past four years and Koi Aanay Wala Hai is a product of that.”
Bilal is quick to add that while there has been a change of sound and they have dabbled with a few more genres, the essence of Strings still remains the same. And what is that, we ask? Pat comes the reply. “Soulful, simple and sensuous music, that is straight from the heart,” says Bilal Maqsood, lead guitarist.
He also says that unlike their previous albums, which caught on to the listeners immediately, this album is one that will grow on you.
Classifying themselves in the genre of pop-rock, the twosome say that they do not derive any inspiration from contemporary music. “While today’s musicians are exceptionally talented, we don’t particularly draw inspiration from anyone. We play for the love of music, we play for ourselves. If we are not satisfied with how a particular number sounds, chances are, the world won’t hear it either,” says Bilal passionately. While the two don’t look upon contemporary music for inspiration, they are hugely inspired by Bilal’s father, Anwar Maqsood, who penned the lyrics for their initial songs.
Chennai’s vibrant rock scene has not gone unnoticed by the duo, who came to the city last in the year 2006 for a concert. Quiz them about the music scene in Chennai and they grin widely. “We are very impressed by what Chennai has to offer for its music lovers. It’s great to see young talent being encouraged and given a platform to perform. Chennaiites seem to know their music well and the rock scene, especially among the college crowd seems to be bustling. There is just so much energy and it is infectious,” says Faisal.
In a country where Bollywood dhin-chak is the first and last word on music, how do these boys fit in? “We don’t want to fit in; we simply want to experiment and Bollywood is just another genre for us. It maybe good money and a lot of Pakistani singers are taking to Bollywood in a big way, but pop music is our mainstay. We look to connect with our fans through that and with an exception of maybe Zinda and Shootout at Lokhandwala we haven’t dabbled too much with Bollywood music. It would be a nice challenge though,” say the duo.
The band also has an international track to its credit. They were chosen to compose the original soundtrack for Spider-Man 2, an incredible honour for the duo. “We didn’t know this opportunity was coming our way. It just fell into our lap; we didn’t take a conscious effort to promote ourselves, but were elated when it happened.”
What’s up next? Apart from enjoying the success of their recent album and collaborating with bands like Parikrama, the rockers are busy with some UNICEF related work and are looking to compose music for films as well.
There has been no looking back for the Pakistani boys; who have left an indelible mark on Indian soil as well. With oodles of talent, and personalities to match, all we can say is...rock on!
Link: http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/I...ow/3321764.cms
Download Shehzad Roy - Qismat Apnay Haat Mein - High Quality [2008-VBR-320Kbps]
DOWNLOAD LINKS:
01 - Ek Baar - Qismat Apnay Haat Mein (2008).mp3
02 - Khul Kay Piyaar - Qismat Apnay Haat Mein (2008).mp3
03 - Qismat Apney Haat Mein - Qismat Apnay Haat Mein (2008).mp3
04 - Laga Reh - Qismat Apnay Haat Mein (2008).mp3
05 - Ankhien - Qismat Apnay Haat Mein (2008).mp3
06 - Quaid-e-azam - Qismat Apnay Haat Mein (2008).mp3
07 - Zindagi Feat.Abida Parveen - Qismat Apnay Haat Mein (2008).mp3
08 - Janay Kahan - Qismat Apnay Haat Mein (2008).mp3
09 - Darwaza - Qismat Apnay Haat Mein (2008).mp3
10 - Baro Chal Tribute to Mai Bhagee - Qismat Apnay Haat Mein (2008).mp3
11 - Ankhien (Violoncello Version) - Qismat Apnay Haat Mein (2008).mp3
The song Yeh Hum Naheen has been aired for quite some time now.We have all heard it sung by various artists.
Yeh Hum Naheen is a campaign against terrorism which is strongly supported by our many artists.
All you have to do is go to YehHumNaheen.org and cast your vote to join the fight against terrorism.
Musik Pakistan supports this cause and we suggest our readers to join in.
Ali Zafar also known as Prince of Pop, is a Pakistani musician, actor, painter and model probably most noted around South Asia for his music, including his hit songs like Channo, Rangeen, Chal Dil Merey, Dekha, Masty and Sajania. He started his singing career with his hit song Jugnuon se bhar le aanchal in the film Shararat directed by Pakistani actress and director Samina Peerzada.
Zafar recently won the ''Youth Icon'' award from the Lux Style Awards 2007, in Malaysia.
He has also been listed in ''8 MOST HANDSOME AND SEXY MEN OF ASIA'' by a Britsh magazine named Eastern Eye.
We wish Arooj the very best in her career and hope that she can be an inspiration for many others!
How would you introduce yourself to our readers?
I was born in Saudi Arabia and spent a few years of my childhood there. My family then moved to Lahore and I completed my O Levels from the Convent of Jesus and Mary. From there, I completed my A Levels from Lahore Grammar School (DHA). Before starting college I took a year off and applied for a scholarship program at Berklee's online extension school (www.berkleemusic.com). This is where I won the Steve Vai Scholarship and thus spent the year studying with Berklee Music online. I am now 20 years old, and living in Boston. I am pursuing an undergraduate degree in Professional Music based on Core Music Theory, Music Education and Music Production/Engineering.
You are the first female musician from Pakistan to pursue formal education in music - how did this all come about and what did it take to be where you are today?
I was a student of finance up until I applied for college. I had known about Berklee College of Music since I was 14 years old through searching the internet for music schools because I was curious about music education and professional degrees in music. When applying to college, I felt detached from my future career choice. I'd been pursuing accounting so far, but it felt off beam to be investing so much time and money into something that brought me no happiness. Cliched as it might sound now, I decided to be true to my heart, and mustered the confidence to talk to my parents about Berklee College as a possibility. It took months of persuasion and reasoning on my part before I could have them understand just how important music was to me and what exactly my goals were.
I got the Steve Vai Grant scholarship for Berklee Music Online, their online external school. I am currently doing my undergraduate degree on the BEST (Berklee Entering Student Test) Scholarship, and am required to finance the rest.
Arooj performing with her friends at Berklee
How would you describe the study of music to a person who doesn't know what it means to study music?
People seem to think that formal music education restricts creativity, and is unnecessary. But, like any other education, music education builds structure and discipline in musicianship. Core Music Theory is universal and applies to all kinds of music. During my first semester I was enrolled in a course called ''Perfection Skills for the Background Vocalist.'' My first reaction was thinking that I had scored low on my vocal skills auditions and so they gave me a background vocals class. But I realized later that in order to be an excellent vocalist, you need to be able to understand and respect every aspect of a vocalist's role. Similarly, in arranging class, we compose and notate cello pieces, drum patterns and bass lines. The interpretation and understanding of different instruments and how they come together musically is priceless knowledge for a musician. Ear training builds the ability to hear notes, progressions and scales in music. It makes composing easier and faster. These elements and more come together to create an inclusive, well- rounded musician. Berklee is giving me the education, experience, overall musicianship and confidence that I will need to pursue my plans for music education in Pakistan.
What are your personal academic goals what are you aiming to get out of this undergrad in music?
To me, music has never been about recording albums and making videos. It holds the incredible power to motivate people and influence their thoughts. My primary goal is to bring formal music education to Pakistan. Along the way, I have plans to help bring about positive social change for women in Pakistan. We have let go too many years now without respect for women as professionals and especially professional musicians. Our basic human and social values seem to be crumbling as 'codes' of conduct continue to dictate what is proper and what is wrong. We have some learning and some unlearning to do, and I believe that music and musical motivation is an excellent medium to begin this change.
How did the guitar become your chosen instrument? What is special about it from your perspective?
There are a lot of instruments that I love besides the guitar. I have begun playing drums and piano. Here at music school we consider voice to be an instrument too. The guitar is one of the most used instruments in music. I guess I was more inclined to pick it up because I heard it in all the music I used to listen to at that time. The music that made me get up and actually go buy my first guitar was a piece from the soundtrack of City of Angels.
How many songs have you composed and what can you tell us about them?
Songs come and go really. I am extremely particular about lyrics and am not satisfied with any of my texts yet. It is an endless process of writing and rewriting. One of my songs is called Celebration of Life which focuses on optimism and the appreciation of things around us. With all the cynicism and negativity in this 'world gone mad', I feel positive energy needs to be touched upon and created where absent. Then there is 'Walking-' a song I wrote in grade 9. It won me the berklee scholarship. I re-recorded it at Meekal's studio with Gumby on drums and bass and it was fun to see how it turned out eventually. It's a mellow acoustic/alternative song. All of these can be listened to at www.aroojaftab.com
The album will probably take a few years. I'm learning so much at Berklee and I want to incorporate all of it into my music, so I feel waiting is crucial for me right now.
Have you done any shows and what kind of response did you get from the audience?
I did a show or two in school, and also performed live for City FM89's birthday transmission. Performances make me nervous and I don't want to do any until I know that I'm perfectly ready. In Pakistan, performance defines a musician. At music school I've learnt that some people are cut out for it and some just aren't. Regardless of their playability. These are the small differences that I detect in how we view music under such tight scrutiny in Pakistan and how that too needs to change.
How do people in Pakistan regard your decision to study music as opposed to the typical fields like science or management?
I think that since Pakistan is a developing country it does make sense that education is currently centered around fields like engineering, medical science and management. Being a woman studying music has been difficult for me because people are not willing to do away with their stereotypes of 'proper' and 'improper.' The true value of Music has been misrepresented and never been properly defined in Pakistan. I feel that once my goals are realized, Insha Allah, we will be able to graduate into a more accepting and understanding environment for music in Pakistan.
How would you characterize the facilities available to young musicians like yourself for recording and promoting your music in Pakistan?
The good thing is that the music industry is small, and the country is pretty small too so any appreciable talent is noticed and taken beneath the spotlight immediately. Recording studios are not efficient at all, though. The people running them are not professional recording technicians or even close to experts.
Arooj performing at Berklee
What are your future plans and where do you see yourself in say five years' time as a musician? Do you see these plans transpiring in the US or back in Pakistan?
In five years inshAllah my degree should be completed. My album too should be concluded. Ideas regarding the music school should be transferring on to solid blueprints and I should be losing a lot of sleep trying to accomplish the vision of formal music education in my country!
This week's undeniable hotstepper has to be Shehzad Roy. While Shehzad has been in the limelight since the 90s as one of Pakistan's most popular singers, he has made a second coming this year with the launch of his album - Qismat Apney Haat Mein. While the album was launched at Karachi's Juvenile jail for an audience of young prisoners and media personnel, it's the first video - 'Laga Reh' that is really making waves. Directed by Ahsan Rahim, the video had endorsements by noted columnist Ardeshir Cowasjee and sportsman-turned philanthropist-turned politician Imran Khan. The video puts a spotlight on all the issues in the country that make headlines on a daily basis, with a rather sarcastic take on how Pakistanis deal with the issues. The words 'laga reh' define that mentality all too well! Ali Azmat, Mani, Faisal Qureshi (keep an eye out for his flying sequence!) and director Ahsan Rahim.
Quite a few firsts for Shehzad are coming about! Shehzad has turned his hand to songwriting for the first time in his career and penned the entire album himself, which features a number of social commentary songs (check out 'Quaid-e-Azam' and 'Qismat Apney Haat Mein') as well as Roy's signature romantic songs. The album also features a duet with legendary singer Abida Parveen!
Shehzad also appeared on Geo TV's show Capital Talk, which named its show 'Le lo qismat apney haath mein' (take destiny into your hands), which is rather rare he is the first singer to be invited on the show. We predict Shehzad Roy will be one of the hottest artists this year, simply because this is an incredibly relevant album for the times we live in. Kudos to Shehzad for going ahead with launching an album that could easily be perceived as uber-controversial (sponsors declined to touch it!) and for teaming up with Ahsan Rahim for the 'Laga Reh' video. We can't wait to see the next video, also to be directed by Ahsan Rahim, and the buzz that generates!
Source : INSTEP Magzine
Pakistan’s first violin school opens today
By Ali Usman
LAHORE: Where words fail, music speaks, and without music, life is just like a journey through a desert. It’s easy to play any musical instrument, as all one has to do is touch the right key at the right time and the instrument will play itself. However, as violin is considered one of the toughest instruments to play in Pakistan, not many people are interested in learning to play it.
Although basic courses on the instrument are taught at various institutes, both private and government ones, there is not a single exclusive violin school in Pakistan. With an aim to boost the art of violin playing, a violin school is set to open in a shopping mall on Gulberg’s Main Boulevard today (Saturday).
This violin school will be first of its kind in Pakistan, claims Ghulam Ali, the pioneer of the school. Ali, a National College of Arts (NCA) graduate who had done his thesis on violin playing, has been playing violin for years, and now has come up with an idea to pass on the art to the younger generation.
Talking to Daily Times, Ali said that he had been abroad and had observed that the westerners loved playing violin. “Even the elderly people there keenly learn playing the instrument,” he said. He said that he wanted to revive the art of playing violin in Pakistan, and would do his best for it. “I have dedicated my life to music and violin is my passion. I will impart all what I have to my students,” he said.
Three courses have initially been designed for students, which include a three-month basic course, a six-month short course and a one-year diploma. Eight students, including four girls, have got registered at the school.
Zafar Mehmood, one of the registered students, said that he was quite happy that someone had taken up the task to teach violin, his favourite instrument. He said that he was a graphic designer by profession, and had tried a lot to learn violin in the past, but had to burry his desire, as there was no specific institute for it.
Another student said that had been learning violin at Alhamra Arts Council, but only basics were being taught there. “I am happy because now I will be able to learn playing the instrument properly,” he said.
Besides violin classes, other traditional music instruments like flute and guitar will also be taught at the institute. Ali said that students would be taught with notations and practical performances. He said that he had kept the courses fee affordable to everyone to give a chance to more and more students to learn music. The formal inaugural ceremony of the school will be presided over by the Culture Minister Dr Tanveerul Islam.
Source: www.dailytimes.com.pk
Turbulent politics, unprecedented inflation and security concerns have led to cancellation and postponement of a number of showbiz and cultural events. Deemed, as Pakistan’s ‘Oscars’ LUX Style Awards the biggest style and fashion-based event is the latest one to be cancelled.
Telenor’s Masty Express concert featuring pop star Ali Zafar and local artistes was scheduled to be held on Thursday (yesterday) at Alhamra Cultural Complex but was postponed due to security concerns. The local authorities had reportedly advised the organisers to postpone it due to security conditions in the city.
The LUX Style Awards for excellence in cinema, TV, music and fashion being held since 2002 every year aim at honouring outstanding contribution with around 30 awards. The awards have been held at different venues including Dubai. Last year’s awards ceremony was held in Malaysia. There were reports earlier this year that the event would this year be held in Bangkok. It was announced later in briefing at Karachi that the event would be held in Lahore - the country’s cultural capital - this summer.
A Unilever spokesperson said that it was not appropriate to go ahead with the awards this year as millions of Pakistanis were confronted with unprecedented inflation and the country was facing tough economic and security conditions. “The LUX Style Awards are for us a way to contribute to the society in which we operate. Despite the set back of not being able to go ahead with the annual ceremony in the manner that has come to be expected of the LUX Style Awards, we have every intention of honouring the nominees and going ahead with the LSA scholarship scheme that we started this year,” the spokesperson explained.
The LUX Style Awards had announced a scholarship scheme this year to give annual scholarships to students of the National College of Arts (TV and Film Department), National Academy of Performing Arts (Music department) and to the two fashion schools - Pakistan School of Fashion Design in Lahore and Asian Institute of Fashion Design in Karachi.
This year there would be no awards ceremony. The award winners shall be announced and honoured in a modest manner. This year director Shoaib Mansoor’s ‘Khuda Kay Liyae’ scooped up all the film awards nominations. Albums from Jal, Ali Azmat, Atif Aslam, Abrar ul Haq and Rozen were all nominated in the Best Music Album category. Uns Mufti’s Broken Boundaries for Coven, Bilal Lashari’s Dhamaal for Overload, Ahsan Rahim’s Sajania by Ali Zafar, Bilal Lashari’s Sajni for Jal and Soheb Akhtar’s Ujaloan Mein for Mizraab were the top five nominations in the Best Music Video category.
A new category was introduced for the Awards this year and the best single of the year nominees were ‘Aisi Taisi’ by Azal, ‘Bandeya’ by Khawar/Faiza from ‘Khuda Kay Liyae’, ‘Laree Chootee’ by Call, ‘Roya Re’ by Shiraz Uppal and ‘Sajni’ by Jal. The fourth music category of Best Live Act was dominated by Josh, Mauj, Meekal Hassan Band, Overload and Strings.
The Masty Express Concert series was a grand event to be held in 13 cities. The first three concerts were held in Karachi, Hyderabad and Sargodha. About 3,000 music lovers were expected to attend the concert at Alhamra Cultural Complex in Lahore. The next shows are to be held in Faisalabad and Multan. New date for show in Lahore would be announced later. The number of fashion shows and other showbiz events have decreased in the city. The main factor quoted by organisers are security concerns. Also the multinational companies that usually sponsor such events are shying away from publicity associated with them due to price hike and outcry of people against it. The government is oblivious to the situation and has no plan to salvage the entertainment industry.
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