This week, You! delves into the music artists who maintained their prominence and garnered popularity throughout the year 2023…
music
Musically, the year 2023 unfolded as marked by the triumphant return of major female pop stars, a rich variety of sonic diversity that not only dominated the charts but also transcended genre boundaries. Against the backdrop of a global music atmosphere, powerful genres emerged, shaping the musical landscape in profound ways.
This week, You! takes you through the sounds of 2023 - invites you to explore the top artists, delve into the melodies of standout songs and immerse yourself in the depths of acclaimed albums by the top artists of the year. Let’s take a look at the melodic odyssey to discover the pulsating heartbeat of the year in music…
Sanam Marvi, a renowned Sufi and folk singer hailing from Hyderabad, Sindh, is celebrated for her enchanting renditions in Urdu, Sindhi, Punjabi, and Saraiki. Initiated into singing at the age of 7 by her father, Faqir Ghulam Rasool, she received training from legends such as Abida Parveen and Ustaad Fateh Ali Khan. In 2009, a breakout performance on national television catapulted her to overnight fame, leading to global recognition. Marvi’s universal appeal lies in her magical voice, offering a beautiful interpretation of Sufi poetry. She made her debut in India in 2010, performing at Jahan-e-Khusrau, and has since graced international stages, including London, Paris, and New York. Having been one of the ambassadors for Spotify’s Equal Pakistan program, Sanam Marvi stands tall in the global music landscape, resonating with audiences across cultural borders.
Renowned for his emotive vocals and cross-cultural appeal, since his debut in 2004, the chart-topping hits like ‘Aadat’ and ‘Tajdar-e-Haram’ have solidified Atif Aslam’s status as a top-tier artist. At the heart of his success lies his soul-stirring voice, characterised by its emotional depth and the ability to convey a myriad of feelings through his songs. Atif’s seamless transition into acting and his philanthropic efforts further exemplify his multifaceted impact, making him an enduring icon in Pakistani music. The artist retained his place as the most streamed local artiste of 2023.
Momina Mustehsan is a celebrated singer and songwriter. She gained fame with her debut in Coke Studio season 9, notably for her rendition of ‘Afreen Afreen’. Momina’s soulful vocals and versatility have solidified her position as a prominent figure in the contemporary Pakistani music scene. Beyond her musical contributions, she is known for her advocacy work on social issues and women’s rights, making her an influential personality. She continued to be one of the top female artists in the country in 2023 as well.
Asim Azhar, a versatile Pakistani artist, ventured into the limelight not only as a singer but also as an actor. His journey began on YouTube, where he initially showcased his singing talent by covering popular Western songs. However, it was his breakthrough with the song ‘Tera Woh Pyaar’ in Coke Studio Season 9 that catapulted him to fame.
His musical prowess further expanded when he collaborated with Arif Lohar, Haroon, and Ali Azmat in 2020 for the cricket anthem ‘Tayaar Hain,’ performed during the Pakistan Super League (PSL). Asim’s solo hits, including ‘Jo Tu Na Mila’ and ‘Ghalat Fehmi,’ garnered immense attention, establishing him as a prominent figure in the Pakistani music scene. Beyond his vocal talents, Asim Azhar’s foray into acting and his consistent musical contributions showcase his diverse skills and enduring popularity.
Aima Baig is a talented Pakistani singer known for her versatile voice and captivating performances. Rising to fame through her participation in the music reality show ‘Mazak Raat’, Aima’s career took off with her debut in Coke Studio, where she showcased her vocal prowess in various genres. Aima Baig has since become a prominent name in the Pakistani music industry, delivering hit songs such as ‘Baazi’ and ‘Malang’ that highlight her ability to seamlessly navigate different musical styles. Her soulful renditions and charismatic stage presence have garnered her a significant fan base. With her dynamic talent and engaging persona, Aima Baig continues to leave a lasting impact on the contemporary music and entertainment landscape in Pakistan.
Kaifi Khalil, a Karachi-based singer-songwriter and composer, gained prominence in 2022 with his Coke Studio debut in the Balochi song ‘Kana Yaari,’ a composition of his own. His track ‘Kahani Suno 2.0’ soared to the top of Spotify charts in Pakistan, Bangladesh, and India. Known for blending traditional Balochi music with modern elements, Kaifi started his musical journey on YouTube in 2016 and gained recognition with covers. The non-profit organisation ‘I AM KARACHI’ played a pivotal role in propelling his career. With hits like ‘Bya K Bacheke Abdaale,’ ‘Baali Guraab,’ and ‘Kadi Kaye,’ Kaifi Khalil continues to make waves in the music scene.
