Atif Aslam says Indian Coke Studio lacks magic, believes too much in commercialism
There is one glaring difference between Coke Studio Pakistan and Coke Studio Bharat and that is “magic,” according to Atif Aslam.
During an interview with Mirchi UAE on Monday, the Pakistani singer, who has also worked extensively in India, shared his views on the differences between the compositions featured in the popular music series in both countries.
When asked exactly what gives Coke Studio Pakistan an edge over its Indian counterpart, Aslam simply replied “jaadoo (magic)”, with a smile.
“Compositions on both sides are good, but the rawness of our music is missing [in Indian music],” he said. “Indian Coke Studio believes too much in commercialism, whereas Pakistani Coke Studio offers original compositions. A few people work on those compositions and it’s almost a do-or-die situation; but you can also add your own flair to it,” he added.
Aslam, who shot to international fame after the massive success of his breakout solo single ‘Aadat’ in the early 2000s, is back after a 19-year gap between albums with Subah Aye Na.
He built a massive fan-following in Bollywood by singing popular Hindi movie songs that eventually became huge hits across the world. Aslam first gained fame in Indian cinema with the breakthrough track ‘Woh Lamhe’ from the movie Zeher (2005). He then went on to sing many famous romantic songs, including ‘Tere Bin’ from Bas Ek Pal (2006), ‘Pehli Nazar Mein’ from Race (2008), and ‘Tu Jaane Na’ from Ajab Prem Ki Ghazab Kahani (2009). Later successful Bollywood tracks include ‘Jeena Jeena’ from Baldlapur and ‘Dil Diyan Gallan’ from Tiger Zinda Hai (2017).
Aslam has also been an integral part of Coke Studio Pakistan, delivering some of the most iconic and timeless performances on the hit show over the years. From his mesmerising take on the Sufi classic ‘Tajdar-e-Haram’ in Season 8 and soul-stirring rendition of ‘Wohi Khuda Hai’ in Season 12, to modern pop-fusion hits like ‘Sajan Das Na’ and ‘Go’ in Season 14, his journey showcases his unmatched vocal range that continues to enchant millions of fans across the globe.
In an interview with Images last month, the pop icon explained how his new eight-track album was not “a planned rebellion” and that it’s his way of “breaking away from convention”.
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