ISLAMABAD:
Rafaqat Ali Khan enthralled an audience of music lovers with his wide vocal range and remarkable voice control at a concert on Friday. Individuals from various walks of life enjoyed folk and classical songs, as well as some qawali numbers that showcased Ali’s versatility in Lok Virsa’s brightly-lit main hall.
Khan belongs to a famed family of musicians, the Sham Churasi Gharana, and is known for his innovative style of music called classical pop.
He paid tribute to maestros such as Mehdi Hassan, Nusrat Fateh Ali and Salamat Ali Khan by singing some of the numbers the late musicians were popular for. He was nevertheless successful in conveying his signature style by singing his own songs and covers, accompanied by the keyboard, guitar, tabla and dhol.
The audience enthusiastically clapped when Khan sang, “Chand se Chehra” one of his hit numbers. During the performance, Khan playfully explained denoted one of the verse of his song to those who are in love but are penniless, as well as those who have money but no one to love. To this the audience responded with appreciation.
The musical evening set itself apart by being more interactive as audience members asked him questions and expressed their opinions. In answer to a question, Khan shared he has performed in the Middle East, Europe and the United States. “I have performed wherever there are Pakistani music lovers,” he added.
The singer stated that music transcends all language and culture barriers which has made collaborations with international musicians very rewarding. “While music is a great way to connect with fellow artists, it is also a way to mix your individual talent and culture with others to create something new,” said Khan.
Pakistan National Arts Council Director General Hassan Abbas said, “Our musical tradition is of great cultural significance, so it is imperative to celebrate late musicians and their children who are carrying on the legacy.”
Lok Virsa organised the event under its popular series, “Documentation of Genealogical Musical Families of Pakistan”.
Published in The Express Tribune, September 29th, 2012.
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