Of love and harmony: 'Coke Studio' releases Pakistan Day song

'Ao Ehad Karain' has multiple producers and 75 artists-on-board and was shot in completed in four months

KARACHI:

Coke Studio recently released Ao Ehad Karain, a message of peace, hope and celebration of young, emerging talent for the upcoming Resolution Day, stated a press release.

Produced by veteran artist Ali Hamza, the track features a diverse set of musicians from different genres to reinvent the legendary national songs of Pakistan. Envisioned in collaboration with Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), Ao Ehad Karain begins on an introspective note with Wattan Ki Mitti, Gawah Rehna in the voices of Saadat Shafqat, son of Shafqat Amanat Ali, and Zaw Ali, daughter of iconic singer Sajjad Ali.

These powerful verses are followed by a unique recitation of Sir Allama Iqbal’s poetry by Hamza, who provides gravitas to the narration. The track then moves onto the rap sensation Young Stunners, who give yet another out-of-the-box performance with the words of Iqbal.

The track then takes a turn towards Shamu Bai and Vishnu – the Sindhi sibling duo. A young singer from Gilgit-Baltistan has reinvented the song Itnay Baray Jeevan Saagar Mein – a 1960’s classic originally performed by the legendary Allan Fakir. For the final climax, all singers and the marching band come together in a perfect union in Mera Paigham Pakistan.

Reflecting on the track, Hamza said, “Ao Ehad Karain is a journey through time and emotion. It starts introspectively, looking back to when the Pakistan Resolution was passed on March 23, 1940. It then moves up and down, like history has and life does: questions, conflicts, resolutions, awakening, rejuvenation and then, celebrating a new beginning at the turn of a new decade - 2021."

The Noori frontman added, "This is a tribute to Pakistan and Pakistanis. It carries the message of hope, love and harmony for us and for the world as we collectively face a major turning point in history. It’s a grand multi-city, multi-producer, 75 artists-on-board kind of a production and it’s been a four-month-long labour of love."

Hamza concluded, "I can only be grateful that we had a wonderful team of highly talented, creatively conscientious and hardworking artists and professionals. Hope you all like this Mohabbat ka nazrana!”

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