The music industry weighs in on Aamir Zaki's life and legacy

When Pakistani guitar legend Aamir Zaki passed away last week, we didn't just mourn the loss of an unparalleled musician.

Zaki's colleagues mourned the loss of a friend, collaborator, mentor and inspiration.

In conversation with Images, members of the music industry remember his life and legacy.

Also read: Three decades of friendship with Aamir Zaki, Pakistan's unsung guitar hero

Alamgir

"I am shocked! I can not believe this. [Aamir Zaki was] the best music man that came into my life. The understanding that we had when we played together was unbelievable. Even if we did not rehearse before the show, everything was amazing on stage. God bless his soul." (From Facebook)

Hadiqa Kiani

"All that I have left are a few pictures and the songs that he wrote for me. He was not only a friend but a talent unlike any other. I will miss him dearly."

Ali Noor

"Aamir Zaki was one of the finest musicians this country has ever had. We all know him as a guitar player but when I saw him play bass I realised that his musicality surpassed all levels. I can never forget that performance that he and Gumby gave together on just drums and bass. Still gives me goosebumps.

He was very sweet to me. People mentioned a lot about his personality quirks but I always had a very good encounter with him.

I think in retrospect he was genuinely a very simple and true artist who was very sensitive and got affected by even the slightest of upheavals. I relate with that a lot more now as I am growing older.

I however did experience a melancholic vibe every time I met him and I did feel that he was not the happiest person around. I guess we realise a lot when someone leaves... That's life I suppose.

And I guess some people just find their peace in another world..."

Hasan Mahmud (from MIRAGE)

"I picked up the guitar because of watching Aamir Zaki play his acoustic live in the studio. It's been 18 years since I have been inspired by his playing so there can only be one Guitar God for Pakistan. We have lost a true genius of his craft. R.I.P Aamir Bhai”.

Saad Hayat (from MIRAGE)

"It's rare to have your instrument speak when you play it irrespective of the speed and technicality. That was Aamir Zaki. He had mastered the art of playing and also crafting and designing guitars. He was equally good at playing bass too. His music had it all — technique, skill and most importantly, it was soulful.

I grew up listening and looking up to Aamir Zaki. On top of his guitar playing, he was an exceptional songwriter. And while featuring as a session player for any mainstream act in concerts and recordings in studio, he added great value. Any musician or avid listener could easily identify his guitar tone and phrasing style when he played his guitar solos. He was the very first musician in Pakistan to establish the idea of an instrumentalist being an icon. Before him it was always only a singer or a band that got recognition.

Over the years, Aamir bhai was always encouraging and supportive of my work. And whenever we had a few moments alone, he shared a lot about his music journey and life. He was full of knowledge and wisdom. I also had the honour of playing a gig in the same band as him and other senior musicians last year and it was hands down one of the best concerts to date for me. The experience was unreal. I feel lucky to have had that opportunity.

Aamir bhai was a mentor and will remain a legend, an inspiration, a guitar maestro and an icon. He will be dearly missed. I wish that we could have utilised him better and valued him the same way as we have come to realise now that he is gone. I am sure he is now in a much better and comfortable place. May his soul rest in peace. Amen.​"

Jimmy Khan

"A voice from a subculture that touched the hearts of thousands and inspired many to follow suit. Mr. Zaki's devotion to playing guitar could be seen in his most recent performances including one where I had the honour to share a stage with him. He was showcasing a collaboration with a traditional dancer. He was smooth...as smooth as he appeared playing bass in the video for 'People are people'. That, might I remind you all was a very popular video back in the Indus Music days, also my obsession at the time.

We did lose a great musician and an artist. True to his idea of music and life. He surely did leave us too early but I am certain he has found the jam he had been searching for, all these years. Thank you Mr. Zaki for your contribution to planet Earth. God bless your soul."

Farhan Saeed

"I remember when I started my career as a musician, one song I was obsessed with was 'Mera Pyaar Tumhi Ho'. I remember playing at the same shows where he was playing; he was the best guitarist Pakistan has ever seen. I just wish he was celebrated more when he was alive. Leaving us on a Friday and that too in Ramazan tells us a lot about him. Rest in piece Aamir Zaki."

Ali Gul Pir

"Aamir Zaki was eccentric in person and ecstatic on stage. When he performed live, even if you didn't appreciate rock music you would still be amazed at his skills. God give strength to his family and bless him with a good afterlife."

Junaid Khan

"We grew up on your riffs and 'Mera Pyar'! Can't believe Pakistan's legendary great guitarist is no more!Rest in piece and inna lilahe wa ina elehe rajeun, Mr Aamir Zaki. You will forever be remembered and revered by all!"