It was in the after hours we caught up with Jawad Kahlown, an upcoming music sensation, in a local studio, recording his new album. The bloke was affable enough to squeeze an hour or so for us to chat about his latest work and a bit about his lifestyle.
Enough said - this is how it went.
We hear you have a new track on its way - ready to hit the charts, is it so? Tell us a bit about it and its concept?
The track is Ki Karan Daye Ho, which is written, composed and produced by myself and now Abrar bhai (Abrarul Haq) has made some amendments in it, making it even juicier. It's a very funky, groovy track that is sung for everyone - not just targeted to any specific class of society.
What is this new album all about?
The album is now a joint venture since Abrar bhai, showed an interest and we divided the song share in the album. The music of course is pop & bhangra, like you know it's developed into a new genre altogether.
What's the response you expect from the listeners?
Inshallah, by the grace of Almighty, I expect this venture, particularly the song to be a mega hit as it has the essence that attracts the listeners. So far whoever has listened to this track has more than loved it. That is all I can say at the moment.
How do you feel being the cousin of a music icon (Abrar) - does it overshadow you or help you?
Chuckles… when I entered the field of music, the welcome I received or rather my work received was more than an entrant could have asked for. My work helped me make a place for myself. Abrar is like an elder brother to me and he is senior in music and I respect his ideas and suggestions. Obviously he doesn't ever overshadow me, rather he helps me.
How many gigs do you have to your credit till now?
A whole lot, well, hundreds I think. I've done some great shows and concerts in UK, USA and Europe.
What's your favourite genre of music to work on and to listen to?
Light rock and pop surely. These are the ones I've been working on; I like a lot of varied kind of music. I'll tell you my favourite singers and you'll get a fair idea of what I like. Chris Rea, Bon Jovi, Gypsy Kings and Enrique Eglisias. Kishore Kumar, Kumar Sanu, and Adnan Sami are also very good.
Tell us a bit about the fans and how it feels to be on stage?
Feels good, rather very good, it's a thrilling feeling, in the beginning it was great now I've gotten used to it and the best part is, it still feels great. Honestly, why wouldn't it, it is the fans who have made me what I am today. And I am ever thankful to them.
Your favourite session players - musicians?
One of my favourite guitarists is Nasir Hussain, Wajih and Suhail Abbas on keyboards and Babloo on rhythm bass.
You are: a) single, b) in a relationship, c) married, d) confirmed bachelor?
Single, I don't want to lose my scope and eligibility so I'm single.
Jawad Kahlown at home - what's he like?
Very casual, a masti time person with nephews and nieces, watching movies with my best mate Riz (Rizwan). Ah! By the way I love watching cartoons too.
Hobbies:
music,
hunting, travelling,
car racing, reading. |
An anecdote you'd want to share with our readers?
I was coming back from London when it happened. You know, when you're in the tunnel and you're waiting for the queue to end and there's a whole lot of people after you - all lined up - I turned around and I saw a girl taller and healthier than myself. I heard a scream that was followed by a push and I fell down. I was stunned. Still, with my bearings lost, I found another young lady asking me for a picture, and an autograph. A few people got all worked up and tore up my shirt. I was salvaged by the guards and that was a feeling not very nice but still good. After all, I remember it and just mentioned it.
What's your most expensive item in the wardrobe and who gave it to you?
My designer jacket, it cost me around, 3000 sterlings. Yes, I bought it myself.
Since how long have you been in music now?
Since the last five years.
If not a musician then you'd be...
A politician, since I belong to a political family or a PAF fighter pilot as I love flying.
Do you consider Ki Karan Daye Ho as your pass to success in the industry?
It is going to be a bigger hit than my debut track I'm sure. This will be a great track for the mainstream pop that I belong to.
What's next in store?
I don't know. I'll enjoy the fame and wait for the next album, I guess.
