Pohela Boishakh is an event which needs no explanation for Bengalis, regardless of whether they know the historical significance and context of it or not. The festive celebration is near to inescapable for people in the Bengali community, and undoubtedly, music becomes an integral part of the festivities on the day. Musicians, as always, release new songs during such an event, both on the first day of the new year, or in the few days leading up to it. Here are some highlights of artistes and their tracks you might want to lend your ears to on this new year.
Kuddus Boyati, a famous baul singer, triggered a storm in the past for some comments he made about a satirical song. Back then, many judged him as a reactionary and a musician without any ambition to push any boundaries. But now, he is back with a new song named Asho Mama Hey, for which he collaborated with Pritom Hasan.
Boyati proved that he has changed his views on hybrid music genres. This is a fusion between baul, pop, and Bengali hip-hop.
Kuddus Boyati in a western get-up is indeed something unusual compared to his usual orange baul attire. Pritom Hassan got praised for this work too. You may want to check it out if you already haven’t.
Shaffin Ahmed stays strong
The vocalist of legendary rock band Miles dropped two new singles which are now available for download. Shafin Ahmed has been in the industry since the mid-80s and has now reached an iconic status and cult following within the country. Even after three decades, the rockstar shows no sign of slowing down and has plenty of energy left in his tank.
For the last few days, he has been performing across town from studios to university campuses. On social media, he’s been promoting his remixed version of “Nacho Bangladesh,” which is a celebration song launched specially for Pohela Boishakh. Till this day, he has remained a solid performer and quite significant in the industry, and you might want to lend your ears to his newest projects.
Count on me
Master D has an interesting approach to his work. Already a well-established producer in his own rights, he has a knack for presentations and tries to utilise the music video platform to capitalise on his viewers’ attention. In the past, he has released singles like “Tumi Chole Gele” and “Desi Chick.” His music might not suite everyone’s palate but you may expect some catchy beats. Suited for festive occasions, this might be something you might want to try out.
Secrets by Shahrar Nizam
About a week ago, Shahrar Nizam made his debut with a music video. He used a Bengali-English hybrid language in the track, which anyone who is proficient in both dialects can understand. One of the first R&B songs from Bangladesh, this might even be the beginning of a new genre.
The language used here might inevitably become the native tongue of future generations in Bangladesh; considering the effects of globalisation. Rather than rejecting it, people may appreciate creations as such. The song is catchy, cheesy, melodic and revolutionary at the same time. It’s up on YouTube, so go and check it out!
Joy Shahriar’s new single
On the occasion of Pohela Boishakh, singer and musician Joy Shahriar has released a brand new single named Ami Nei. The music video of the song will be available today on the singer’s Youtube channel and Facebook page.
The lyrics of the song was produced by Someshwar Ali, while the singer himself tuned and composed it. Produced by Aajob Records, the song is now available on popular music streaming services including iTunes, Amzon and Spotify. Besides, people can listen it on local music streaming applications like GP Music and Gaan as well.
Speaking about releasing the single online, Joy said, “Back in June of 2013, I released my single Chhuto only on the online platforms, and many made fun of me asking if it’s sufficient to publish music only on the online platforms.'”
“Now, releasing music on online platforms is customary in all parts of the world. Hence, my ventures of releasing music in this manner will continue in the future. I hope I don’t go on the back-foot to sync up with modern technology as an artist of this generation,” he added.
