Farhan Saeed wanted to be Atif Aslam: Goher Mumtaz talks Jal

Explosive interview has set internet ablaze

A recent interview on the Freebird Music Entertainment YouTube channel has set the internet ablaze, with Goher Mumtaz, the talented musician and former member of the band Jal, delving into the band's tumultuous journey, shedding light on the challenges they faced, particularly the departure of Farhan Saeed.

Goher began by reflecting on Jal's evolution, acknowledging that the band experienced multiple breakups. However, the conversation took an interesting turn when the discussion shifted towards Farhan, who joined the band after the departure of Atif Aslam. According to Goher, Farhan's entry into Jal was not initially deemed necessary, given Goher's own role as a vocalist. However, recognising Farhan's potential, Goher shared that he had to put in significant effort to establish Farhan with the audience.

"When Farhan came in, he was very...not into it," began Goher. "He had to be polished for two to four years because people used to compare him with Atif, saying that he didn't have a similar sound. A lot of hard work was put in because the journey required chemistry. The need was not there, if you ask me honestly. I'm being really honest. There was no need at all. But then, because songs and concerts were ongoing, I said, 'Fine, let's work on this together.' But if you ask me now, I totally agree that Farhan was not needed in the band."

When asked about how he and Farhan crossed paths, Goher shared that he was mixing a song with composer Zulfiqar "Xulfi" Jabbar Khan. After Aadat, Goher tried to map out a further plan of action. He mentioned that Farhan was studying at Xulfi's university. Given the plethora of gigs lined up, Goher shared that no one could differentiate members in the band. He was thus introduced to Farhan through Xulfi. "He was very confused in three, four concerts," recollected Goher. "He wasn't getting it. He was performing Aadat only." This snowballed into the singer performing Sajni, as per Goher.

Highlighting Farhan's initial struggles and lack of confidence, Goher revealed that he took proactive steps to build Farhan's assurance. Creating new songs for him and encouraging him to sing the old album songs, Goher played a pivotal role in nurturing Farhan's confidence and integrating him into the band seamlessly. "People weren't seeing him as a vocalist," shared Goher, highlighting how Sajni was thus the breakout song created to establish Farhan as one. 

The interview took a turn when Goher disclosed the circumstances surrounding Farhan's departure from Jal. According to Goher, Farhan aspired to follow in the footsteps of Atif, aiming for a solo career mirroring Atif's success. Goher recounted advising Farhan that emulating Atif's trajectory was not feasible, emphasising the uniqueness of each artist's journey. He shared the hurtful experience of losing a singer he had invested time and effort in, turning Farhan into a star within Jal.

"Farhan wanted to be Atif Aslam," asserted Goher, "by going to Bollywood and all that stuff. I used to tell him that you know, he's Atif Aslam. He got those songs at the right time. Many singers try similarly. But for you (Farhan), the best platform is Jal. It's a good combination. He was lucky. But he wanted to go and he was like, 'No I want to leave.' It is very hurtful when you work so hard on somebody. I would say that as compared to Atif, I put in a lot of hard work for him, to do so much for an average voice. After that, if he wanted to try in Bollywood, I would tell him that the competition is tough and I think time has proven it. They have many other singers. Nobody can be Atif Aslam because he left at the right time, he's got a unique voice...But he didn't listen. He said he wanted to do it and you can't stop somebody."

Goher's candid revelations provide fans with a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the challenges and dynamics within Jal, underscoring the intricacies of the music industry. The interview unveils the struggles and triumphs of the band within the Pakistani musical landscape.

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