Cordial chords

That's what singing sensation and maestro Shafqat Amanat Ali plans to strike when he performs live today

That's what singing sensation and maestro Shafqat Amanat Ali plans to strike when he performs live today

He is the man who lends voice to SRK's chartbusters like Mitwa from Kabhi Alviva Na Kehna and Tere Naina from My Name Is Khan. Having done his bit for classical and rock music by popularising them beyond borders, rock band Fuzon's Shafqat Aman Ali is today beyond categorising.

His latest solo album Kyun Dooriyan is a rage already. Ahead of his performance in the Capital, MiD DAY caught up with the man who gave fusion, or should we say Fuzon, a whole new meaning.

What makes your music relevant to the people who live on both sides of the most conflicting borders, India and Pakistan?
To a great extent, the classical touch up. Secondly, the inspiration that I draw from my father (Ustad Amanat Ali Khan, a Pakistani classical and ghazal singer) helps my music shed boundaries. Also, irrespective of the political situation, the intention of music and culture is never questioned. That's why you see musician rising above political restrictions.

How have you designed Kyun Dooriyan?
Initially, it was planned as a romantic album but later it was tweaked to cater to the endeavours of Indo-Pak relations. Unlike, my earlier works which primarily were Sufi in nature, Kyun Dooriyan is close to the cultural lines.u00a0u00a0u00a0
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You've gone solo with the album. Why?
It gives me freedom to do things in my own ways. Plus, there's no fuss over varying insecurity levels among bad members. I feel relaxed when I'm on my own. To work with a band is a different ball game and a bigger task because you've to consider the capabilities and expertise of everyone who's a part of the group.
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Do you like the high of performing live?u00a0
Yes. I do because when people respond to your music, it gives a different rush.u00a0 No matter how much of recording you've done in a studio, real worth is tested on the stage at a live performance. No doubt, that live concerts are expensive to organise but the confidence gained on the stage is never lost.u00a0
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You are a trained classical singer and a rock band performer. Do you spot a common thread between them?
Music connect all. It doesn't matter if its rock or classical. But those who're classically trained have an upper hand when it comes to performing a genre of music which you don't specialise in.u00a0u00a0u00a0
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Considering the launch of you album, how would you rate the Indian music market?
Piracy has done a lot of damage, but still India is a big circuit and the best market in terms of value and returns. And there are still ways we can develop it.
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What is more important - being a star or a better singer?
A combination of both.

At: Siri Fort Auditorium, Khel Gaon Marg
When: Today, 6 pm onwards
Entry: Invites available at Music Land, Saket; Rhythm corner, E-3 South Ex
Call: 41646383 or mail at routes2roots@gmail.com