Hottie of the week: Ali Noor

Who is he?

As founding member, lead singer and one half of Pakistan’s pioneering pop-rock duo, Noori, Ali Noor barely needs an introduction. Back in 2002, when Noori released its first studio album Suno Ke Mein Hoon Jawaan, no one knew this young musician from Lahore would someday take on the world with his soulful voice, musical genius and of course, rockstar looks. He sang about freedom, love, life and all its struggles for the youth of the nation and captivated the hearts of not just women but men across Pakistan too. Whether heard on the radio or performing live, Ali’s voice almost always manages to cast a spell on his fans and now, 11 years and three studio albums later, he is still working his magic. Our resident rockstar and his band travel the world, performing for their international fan base and promoting the Pakistani music industry. As for us, we may not be attending all his concerts but it is okay, so long as we can feast our eyes on his fun attitude, impeccable guitar skills and long shiny hair that just begs to be rumpled!


Why we love him

For those of us who followed Ali through his early hits like Manwa Re, Gaana no.1 and Hum Bhoolay, he is somewhat of a local legend. Thanks to the efforts of Noori, the Pakistani music scene was revived and people began flocking to concerts to experience its magic firsthand. But the best part about Ali is that he keeps his band as current today as it was at the beginning, with regular concerts and interviews, etc.

Despite international stardom and immense success, remains humble as ever with a great sense of humour. He is known across the Pakistani media for his witty jokes and as an all-around family man, defying the stereotype of the troubled rockstar every day. He derives inspiration from his grandfather and leads a simple and quiet life when he is not working.

What you didn’t know about him

Ali has admitted that if he wasn’t part of Noori, he would like to work as a lawyer.

Tardiness is absolutely unbearable to Ali; he hates it when people arrive late and makes sure he reaches his own destinations well in advance.

Ali’s favourite holiday spot is our very own Abbottabad and he tries to squeeze in a visit whenever he can.

Published in The Express Tribune, Ms T, November 3^rd, 2013.