Finding the human connection in music

HOW RISING STAR ABDULLAH QURESHI IS MAKING HIS MARK

by ASJAD NAZIR

RECENTLY released romantic number Aaja was another indication that Pakistani star Abdullah Qureshi is one to look out for in the coming decade.

The talented singer, songwriter and musician has had a remarkable rise in recent years that has seen him go from playing for underground heavy rock bands in Islamabad to covering classics as a solo artist and releasing his own singles. He has released hit songs, including Kali Santro, Laapata, Awaz Do and Daastan.

Eastern Eye caught up with Abdullah Qureshi to find out more about him and talk all things music.

What connected you to music?

I listened to lots of Pakistani music in my childhood and started singing when I was four. That has connected me to music, especially our mid 90’s pop scene. I loved pretending to play the guitar on a tennis racket and jump around on the bed like it’s my stage. Now, I feel like it runs in my veins. I was lucky enough to explore it at an early age.

Who were your musical influences growing up?

I listened to all of our 90’s musicians and bands, including Awaz, Junoon, Vital Signs and Sajjad Ali. By the age of 11, I started listening to a lot of rock ’n’ roll, including Linkin Park, Nirvana, Audioslave, Noori, EP and Call. Those were my initial influences. Also, my dad and uncle used to listen a lot to Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan together in the car, so I picked up a lot of eastern sounds from there.

How much has being able to play instruments helped you as an artist?

Great question! Picking up the guitar at an early age was one of the best decisions I made. I want to thank my mom for that. She bought me my first one on my 12th birthday. I see so many singers who have never learned an instrument. I see them struggling, especially when they play with other musicians. For any singer, whether you are doing classical music or rock ’n’ roll or even rap, having control over at least one instrument is essential, if you really want to be good at what you do.

You have done some stunning cover versions, but which has been your favourite?

I once did this cover of Ansoo by Ali Azmat. I think it’s still on YouTube. It was my first cover, very casual, but it still has a special place in my heart. Also, because the song itself is a classic.

You have had many highlights, but which songs stand out for you?

If I had to name five, it would be Sufi Medley, Dastaan, Afreen, Chan Mahi and Laapata.

How much do you love a live performance?

To be honest, going on stage and even saying a word in front of the audience was one of my biggest fears. I first went on stage when I was six. I was really scared, but my mom told me to just close my eyes and sing my heart out. I did that and still do. Later, it just started becoming easier and fun with time. My legs and hands used to shiver before going on stage around five years ago, but now I can’t wait for the moment to just go up there and do my thing. The stage is my space and I love owning it.

What’s your most memorable performance?

The first time I played at Kinnaird College. It was huge and the girls there were so loud that even I couldn’t hear my own voice. They are always an amazing audience. It’s a different feeling every time when you play there.

You are able to generate a lot of emotion in your voice, where does that come from?

You only generate emotion in your music when you relate to it unintentionally. I don’t do it on purpose, it just comes from within. I think it’s because of the different feelings I’ve collected over the years. Pain, joy, disappointment, love, anger and peace – it’s a mix of feelings.

What can we expect from you next?

A lot of new original music and I’m planning to do a number of original soundtracks this year too.

Have you made a musical master plan?

Master plans are for a specific goal. I don’t want to restrict myself. You never know when God gives more than you’ve planned for yourself, he always does. I do what I love. That is my only plan.

Who would you love to work with?

I wanted to work with Amir Zaki once or just meet him before he left, but sadly, it couldn’t happen. Working with AR Rahman has been one of my biggest dreams. If we talk about western musicians, I’d want to make a song with John Mayer, Dave Grohl or Steven Wilson.

What kind of music dominates your own playlist?

I listen to all kinds of music. It’s important for musicians to keep their music listening broad. These days, my Spotify is all Billie Eilish and Foo Fighters.

If you could ask any dead artist a question, who would it be and what would you ask?

I would ask Bob Marley about what made him so happy and positive. If you listen to his music, you can feel his positive energy. His music was thoughtful yet simple. He was a genius.

Today, what inspires you?

The human connection. It could be with other humans or it could be the connection with God. Anything I develop feelings for, anything I connect with now becomes an inspiration.

Why do you love music?

Because it moves me. It takes me to a place where I don’t have to worry about anything else. It lets me be myself.

Twitter: @AbdullahQureshi & Instagram: @AbdullahQureshiOfficial