Watch: Wasim Akram mimics rappers of today, taking a dig at modern music

Commentator and former cricketer isn't impressed by the local hip-hop scene

Former cricketer Wasim Akram shared his thoughts on the current state of the hip-hop music scene in Pakistan during a light-hearted exchange on singer Fakhar-e-Alam's talk show, The Pavilion. During the show, Wasim even tried his hand at rapping, albeit in a manner that reflected his skepticism of the direction the genre is taking.

The conversation began when Wasim said, "These days everyone is rapping, no? You keep hearing it on the radio," hinting at the ubiquity of hip-hop in contemporary music. Fakhar seized the opportunity to promote the legendary cricketer's hidden talent, exclaiming, "Actually, this is really good, I want you all to listen to Wasim; there's a fantastic rap song!"

Taken aback, Wasim contested, "But you are a rapper, why should I rap?" Fakhar retorted, "You start, I'll finish.” Despite his initial hesitation, Wasim eventually agreed, inquiring, "Rap of today?" Fakhar responded affirmatively, prompting him to mimic the style of contemporary rappers.

In which @wasimakramlive effectively reviews every rap song pic.twitter.com/bmtynPmTEL

— Hamnawa (@hamnawa_net) November 7, 2023

As he delivered a few lines, his attempt appeared to be a playful take on the redundancy in modern songwriting, subtly poking fun at the minimal effort put in by certain artists to churn out songs that cater to a mood without any substance. "These are the songs of today!" he quips.

While Wasim's on-air performance was meant to be light-hearted, it also underscored a broader debate surrounding the hip-hop scene in Pakistan. The emergence of hip-hop has transformed the country's music landscape, providing a new platform for artists and bringing about a cultural shift. It's a genre that is inherently inclusive, adaptable, and accessible to local artists and audiences.

Wasim Akram's dig at contemporary hip-hop, albeit in jest, highlights the persistent stigma and misconceptions attached to the genre. Rap is often seen as notorious, rebellious, and equally revolutionary, challenging societal norms and speaking to a generation that craves a voice.

It's essential to recognize that the expansion of hip-hop in Pakistan is a testament to the genre's power to empower and connect with audiences on a personal level. Many young artists have used hip-hop to express their experiences, thoughts, and emotions in a way that resonates with listeners.

While Wasim and Fakhar’s banter was not offensive, it serves as a reminder of the importance of acknowledging the diversity within the genre. As the hip-hop scene in Pakistan continues to evolve, it is crucial to respect the creative efforts of artists and acknowledge the genre’s capacity to bring about change.

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