Pakistan’s next big musical hope

NEW TALENT ABDULLAH MUZAFFAR ON HIS IMPRESSIVE RISE

by ASJAD NAZIR

PAKISTAN has an incredibly rich history of producing world-class singers, and there is now an exciting new generation to carry that impressive legacy forward.

One of the super solo artists generating noise in the country right now and making waves internationally is Abdullah Muzaffar. The Lahore-based singer already has a number of hit songs to his name, including Dunya Kisi Ke Pyaar Mein, Dil Mera, Raakh and Besabra, along with videos that have generated millions of views on YouTube.

Eastern Eye caught up with rapidly rising star Abdullah Muzaffar to find out more.

Do you remember the first time you fell in love with music?

I have always been an admirer of music since I was a child; so, it has been with me for as long as I can remember. In my mid-teens, I gave it a lot more attention and that’s when I started to fall in love with music. That love for music has grown ever since then, and I am sure will grow even stronger in the years to come.

Was there any one artist or song that influenced you?

There have been so many great artists that inspired me, so there isn’t just one. Some of my inspirations are Ustad Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan saab, John Legend, Bruno Mars and Kishore Kumar.

How did you first discover your talent?

It was back in my school days when teachers encouraged me to perform at school events. Honestly speaking, I loved music, but I had no idea I was capable of singing. Then I realised I always had it in me and after that there was no looking back.

How did you feel recording your first song?

I was nervous to be honest. That was the time I took music seriously and felt I needed to work on my skills and knowledge regarding music. Music is one of those crafts where the learning never stops.

You have done a number of songs since then, but which is closest to your heart?

Every song is a piece of me. I would say for every artist, even his scrap work is as valuable and important as a big hit. But yes, there’s always one closest to the heart for certain reasons and for me that would be Dil Mera. That song will always remain special for me.

You are exceptional when singing live, what has been your most memorable performance?

I wouldn’t call it a proper performance but the time when I first sang in front of my mother is a moment I will never forget. The appreciation and love that she gave me was so overwhelming that none of the big concerts are as special as compared to this little memorable performance.

What can we expect from you next?

I just want to carry on making good music and growing my knowledge with each release. You can expect the deeply romantic songs I am known for, but you will also be getting some party tracks.

Did you make a new year’s resolution?

Although it is good to set goals, I am someone who believes in being open to positive change all year round. So yes, there are things I want to do, and inshallah, they will happen. But more music and live performances are definitely on that to-do list.

What music dominates your own playlist?

My playlist will change depending on various factors, but recently, I have been listening to EDM a lot. So, any good EDM tune will be in it.

Who would you love to collaborate with?

There are so many great artists out there I would love to collaborate with in some way, even if it is just a jamming session. Jaaani is one of the finest writers of this era, and I would love to work with him.

What is the best musical advice you ever got?

I think the best advice is, ‘to be yourself’ and that has served me well.

If you could learn something new in music what would it be?

Like I said, with music, the learning never stops. If I had to choose one thing then I would love to learn playing the rabab. It’s a beautiful instrument to hear.

Why do you love music?

Everyone loves music, and I am just one of the many who does. Music is a beautiful form of art. It has so many expressions and emotions in it. You just don’t hear music, you feel it. And that is why I love music.

What inspires you?

Everything and every person is an inspiration if you are an observer and learner, which I am.

Instagram: @abdullahmuzaffar