‘I want to win hearts through my music’

PAKISTAN regularly introduces great singing talent to the world and the latest to emerge is Jibran Raheel. The talented singer/songwriter has been connected to music from a very young age and recently released his debut single Jhoota Pyar. The exciting newcomer has more big songs on the way and he is definitely someone to watch out for.

Eastern Eye caught up with the rising star to talk about music, his debut song, future hopes and more.

What first connected you to music?

Ever since I was young, I was drawn to music. I could sit for hours and listen to music, especially the songs that told stories. I would also play my piano for hours and try to copy notes of the songs. Ever since, the connection with music has been inseparable.

Who have been your biggest influences?

I have had many musical influences, which have changed as I have grown up and they continue to change. I was fortunate enough to have started my journey from Ustad Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan saab to Mohammed Rafi and Kishore Kumar, which later progressed to Atif Aslam, Arijit Singh and many more. I’ve always admired these legends and they have influenced me. A small secret, I initially wanted to be a rapper and was a huge Eminem fan.

Tell us about your debut single?

A story about friendship, love and betrayal, Jhoota Pyar is about two lovers who are in different states of mind about their relationship.

What was the biggest challenge of putting the song together?

Every song takes you thr-ough a different journey. The journey for Jhoota Pyar has been amazing. I wanted my track to connect with people. I hope the lyrics touch their hearts and they fall in love with the song. But for me, the biggest challenge was to satisfy myself with the track.

Who are you hoping will connect with the song?

Honestly, I want everyone to connect to the song. I want to win hearts through my music and I am certainly hoping to achieve that through this song.

Will this be the kind of music you will make going forward?

The audience will hear different sounds in every song. I have already started working on another track, so let’s see where the tides lead.

So, what can we expect next from you?

Bigger and better music.

Who would you love to collaborate with?

Sajjad Ali, who hands down is a living legend.

What music dominates your own playlist?

I’m an old soul, so my playlist is dominated by old classics, from Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan to Mohd Rafi and Kishore Kumar.

Your musical hero?

I’m inspired by a lot of music legends. All of my heroes have taught me something and have helped me master my craft, so can’t name any one as there are too many to choose from.

What sets you apart from other newcomers?

My versatility. I can do everything from Sufi to pop. I try all genres.

What inspires you?

Everything and anything that has art inspires me.

Finally, why do you love music?

Music defines the soul sometimes. You already feel the message of the song without understanding it directly.