By If it wasn’t for Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan, qawwali probably wouldn’t have garnered such immense popularity across the globe. It was his genius that put Pakistani music on the global map. He left us too soon but his melodies will reign over our hearts forever. On what would have been his 70th birthday, we remember him by listening to some of his most of soulful sounds — bound to make every girl feel beautiful inside and out.
Afreen Afreen
Nusrat’s magical voice and Javed Akhtar’s reflective lyrics. The superb collaboration between the two maestros produced this masterpiece in their album Sangam. Released in 1996, Afreen Afreen is the qawwal’s most popular song and still as magical as ever.
Kinha Sonha
This beautiful track released in 1991 will always remain a favourite. A remixed version of the song was also released in collaboration with English singer-songwriter Peter Gabriel, garnering admiration from around the world.
Halka Halka Suroor
‘Halka Halka Suroor’ was a super hit when it released in 1991 and remains one of the most popular tracks by Nusrat. There have been various renditions to this track, including one by Farhan Saeed.
Kiven Mukhre Ton Nazran Hatawan
This wonderful melody with equally emotive lyrics came out in 1992. Listen to it once and you’ll be hooked forever.
Mast Nazron Se
The qawwali king perfectly describes beauty using his signature style in this hit number from 1992. Melody, lyrics and composition – everything about this song is crafted to perfection.
Mere Rashke Qamar
Fana Bulandshahri’s expressive poetry was sung by the legendary qawwal in 1998. Decades later, the song was revived by his nephew Rahat Fateh Ali Khan who recently sang it for the Bollywood movie, Baadshaho.
Khanjar Hain Teri Ankhein
This underrated ghazal by Nusrat is mesmerising. The qawwal describes the brilliance of his beloved’s eyes with beautiful intensity.
Aisa Banna Sanwarna Mubarak Tumhe
This feel-good song is a treat for one’s ears. Albeit not one of his most popular songs, you’ll thank us once this pleasant number finds a place on your playlist.
Sochta Hoon Ke Woh Kitne Masoom The
This iconic track sung by Nusrat in 1997 is making rounds again after Atif Aslam released his Bollywood version. Along with the musical maestro’s powerful vocals, the enthralling lyrics are bound to tug at your heartstrings.
Jism Dhamakta Zulf Ghaneri
This melodious number also belongs to the magnum opus album Sangam. Save this one for a dull day– trust us, the lyrics can cheer anyone up!
Tu Mera Dil
A song on a collaborative studio album (Night Song) by Nusrat and Canadian musician Michael Brook, this number is considered one of Nusrat’s most experimental attempts at fusion music. Recorded in 1995 and released in 1996 on Real World Records, it was Khan’s last album released on the label during his lifetime.
Sanu Ek Pal Chain
Sit back and relax for this final number. Close your eyes when the track nears the 2:45-mark, Nusrat will transport you to another planet altogether.
What do you think?
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