After decades tucked away in the vaults of musical history, a stunning revelation has emerged in the world of South Asian classical and devotional music.
The legendary Ustad Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan, whose voice has captivated millions around the globe, returns to the spotlight with the release of “Chain of Light,” a lost album that promises to bring the maestro’s enchanting Qawwalis back to life.
On Tuesday, the first pre-release event took place in Islamabad, at the residence of British High Commissioner, Jane Marriott.
The Commissioner welcomed the guests and shared her thoughts regarding the mesmerizing effect that Ustad Nusrat has left on the hearts of many of his admirers.
The guests were treated to a glimpse of the documentary Biopic Film “Ustad” being developed by Saiyna Bashir Studios along with the inspiring story of the discovery of “The Lost Album”
This project is a collaborative effort between Saiyna Bashir Studios in Pakistan and Peter Gabriel’s Real-World Records and it marks a significant cultural milestone by bringing a series of global launch events.
The project is supported by the British Council which has been at the forefront when it comes to promoting the music and cultural heritage of Pakistan. This is not the first time that the British Council has contributed to such an event, the institution has always played a pivotal role in spotlighting the emerging artists, providing them platforms to shine.
This time the British Council is acting as a helping hand in organizing launch events taking place in Islamabad, Lahore, Karachi, Manchester, Birmingham, London, and Paris where the official album will be unveiled on 20 September.
Moreover, The “Chain of Light” comprises recordings that are not previously heard by anyone. The album consists of recordings from the 90s when Ustad Nusrat was at the pinnacle of his vocal prowess.
Discovered and restored from the original analog tapes, the recordings include gems such as ‘Ya Allah Ya Rehman’ and ‘Ya Gaus Ya Meeran,’ tracks that have never been heard before by the public. The guests were also fortunate to hear the excerpts of all four tracks in the album. The revelation of these tracks is not just a revival of lost music but a restoration of a cultural heritage that Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan so beautifully encapsulated in his performances.
Expressing her excitement, Maarya Rehman, Deputy Director British Council Pakistan, stated: ‘Chain of Light is not just about rediscovering a lost masterpiece of Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan; it’s about reigniting the cultural connection that his music has always fostered between Pakistan and the world. Through these launch events, we hope to celebrate his enduring legacy and the universal language of music that transcends borders and unites us all.”
Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan is undoubtedly a towering figure in the music industry, whose legacy will forever be etched in the annals of history. His profound understanding of music and unparalleled vocal capabilities have set standards that remain unmatched, ensuring his voice will resonate throughout the universe for generations.
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