“I’m glad to have an evergreen song like Bhula Do, under my belt,” Wajhi Farooki 

Surfaced on the country’s music frame in 2006, as the lead vocalist of Raeth the band, Wajhi Farooki, had audiences hooked with their first single Bhula Do, which was a smashing hit. The song became his trademark of success and there was no looking back since then. You name it; Pop, Jazz, Sufi etc and he has proved his versatility by performing in every possible genre. Farooki has also worked in Bollywood for several years and created outstanding music. With his latest track Tera Hi Chehra releasing, we got in touch for an exclusive chat. Excerpts:

How were you introduced to the world of music?

I was into music since I was a kid. We use to a have a lot of musical gatherings at our house and so, I was introduced to singing and performing at a very young age.

How do you feel about the love and appreciation you’ve got from the audience in all these years?

Love from the audience is the fuel that keeps us going and I’m so proud that Raeth has survived for so many years. I never thought that we’ll be loved so much when we initially started in 2006. We have seen a lot of ups and downs, but I guess one should keep evolving and I’m really glad to have an evergreen song like Bhula Do, under my belt.

You’ve also worked in Bollywood for years, what do you think is the difference between both the music industries?

Both the industries have welcomed me with open arms and I loved working for both, but I guess Bollywood has more competition and it’s hard to survive there. They are very professional, our film industry is newer comparatively, but everyone works really hard here and we are evolving at a rapid pace.

Which genre of music do you enjoy the most singing?

I really love singing Bollywood and Sufi-rock.

Tell us something about your recently released track Tera Hi Chehra?

It’s a romantic track and I composed and directed it. I’m happy that it’s doing quite well.

An advice you’d want to give to aspiring singers who want to pursue singing as a career?

Learn music before entering into the industry and don’t do anything half-heartedly. Don’t do it for the money or fame, just pour your heart out and all will follow.

Rafay Israr: Harmonising on

Bagging the ‘Rising Talent of the year’ at the Excellence Award 2018, Raafay Israr, rose to fame with his captivating voice and a tremendous flair for music. The songster is best known for his debut track Sajni, which in no time gained him a lot of recognition from the music fraternity. With Beliya, Man Ki Lagan and Khushfehmian being his melodious treats for his fans; he has recently released his new single Wajah Kia Thi which we think will also held the audiences in awe of his talent. He sits with MAG for a quick chit chat. Excerpts:

What is music for you?

Everything. My day starts with it and ends with it. I have a very strong connection with it.

How has been your journey so far in the music industry, since the release of your debut single Sajni?

It has been amazing. It really takes a lot of time and effort to produce original music but when someone approaches me and tells me that they listen to my song every day, it makes my day. I’ve gotten more recognition than I ever expected.

Do you think it’s difficult for aspiring artists to make a name for themselves in the industry?

I don't think that it’s difficult anymore as there are multiple platforms for new musicians to make use of for showcasing their talent now. The biggest platform these days is, without a doubt, social media.

Writing, composing or singing, if you had to pick one?

I love composing music, but singing live on stage is something I love the most. The desire to just be on the stage, entertaining the audience and singing with the crowd is the best feeling ever.

Your ultimate music inspiration comes from?

The inspiration I would say usually comes from the music I listen to and musical films that I watch.

You’ve just launched your new track, tell us something about the song?

It’s just been a few days since I’ve released my new single. The song is called Wajah Kia Thi. This one is really close to my heart and I have literally worked day and night to execute it. It has been composed and written by myself and the music video features Noor Hassan and Azekah Daniel.• I really hope that the audience will like it.