It is common knowledge, especially for those of us who follow pop culture matters unfailingly, that artists today are multi-faceted. For example, musicians like Ali Zafar, Fawad Khan and Ali Azmat - to name just three - are experimenting with acting.
Known for his roles in television serials, Tipu Sharif is expanding his horizon by experimenting with cinema and music.
Instepinterview
Instep talks to the seasoned actor about his upcoming debut album and his love for music.
It is common knowledge, especially for those of us who follow pop culture matters unfailingly, that artists today are multi-faceted. For example, musicians like Ali Zafar, Fawad Khan and Ali Azmat - to name just three - are experimenting with acting.
Similarly, actors like Tipu Sharif, known for his performances in serials like Muhabbat Aag Se, Jab Naam Pukare Jayenge, Ahmed Habib Ki Betiyan, Main Abdul Qadir Hoon, Muskhbaar and Moum, is trying his luck with music.
After making his film debut in last year’s Manto, Sharif is gearing up for his upcoming film Saawan in which he is essaying the role of an army office. In 2016, Sharif is also starring in the serial Izn-e-Rukhsat in which he is portraying a double role for the first time in his career.
In between acting jobs, Sharif has also found time to pursue music. Earlier this year, Valentine’s Day to be specific, Sharif released a music video called ‘Lamhay’. More to the point, he is also working on his debut music album called Ilham which, according to Sharif, is slated to release later this year.
In a brief interview with Instep, Sharif talks about his musical aspirations and what lies ahead…
Instep: Tell us about your music video, ‘Lamhay’.
Tipu Sharif: ‘Lamhay’ was conceived by Shani Arshad who has composed several songs for Ali Zafar, Shafqat Amanat Ali, Shehzad Roy and many others. I approached him back in 2008 and sought his help in composing a song, all in a month’s time. With several offers of acting and modeling, music had taken a backseat despite the fact that my friends and family wanted me to make a video.
This year, I shared the idea of shooting a video with my friend Jibran Raheel who is also a great singer. He introduced me to Asif Masood and with a collective effort, we succeeded in releasing the video on Valentine’s Day. ‘Lamhay’ is the first song I ever recorded but it is my third video (after ‘Bikhri Pari Zindagi’ and ‘Kamlee’ by Teen Nuktay).
Instep: How is ‘Lamhay’ different from your earlier tracks?
TS: ‘Bikhri Pari Zindagi’ is a pure rock ballad with a lot of loud guitars and angry pretense whereas ‘Kamlee’ is the sort of melody that never dies. Its specialty rests in its lyrics and they have been inscribed in Urdu, English and Punjabi and features three vocalists such as Jibran Raheel, Umer Iftikhar and myself.
Instep: Tell us about your upcoming debut album.
TS: My first album, Ilham (Inspiration) is in the making and at the moment, I am deciding which songs to include in the album. I have fourteen tracks that are ready and waiting. I intend to present my fans with an unlimited supply of beautiful Pakistani (and maybe Turkish) music. For the time being, my singles ‘Judaaiyaan’ (a Punjabi number), ‘Kyun’ and ‘Kiran’ are on the way.
Instep: Is there any particular style that you aim to follow in your singing?
TS: I believe in beautiful melodies and meaningful lyrics. The style of music may differ but hopefully my songs will never be mindless. I prefer rock and film stuff. I would love to be a playback singer/rocker.
Instep: What comes first: music or lyrics?
TS: Music first, lyrics later – that is how I frame my equation. However, if I challenge myself with the works of an eminent poet someday, then obviously the music will be composed later.
Instep: How long did it take you to come up with this video?
TS: The video was shot in a single day and after editing and post production, I got the final copy in about a week’s time (after the shooting).
Instep: Who inspires you as a singer?
TS: My inspiration in singing comes from the legendary Kishore Kumar and I would like to have a singing career as versatile as his.
Instep: What is next on the cards for you?
TS: Well, a couple of production houses have expressed their desire to have me sing some OSTs (original soundtracks) for them. I would love to sing for Pakistani as well as Indian movies. Of course, as an artist I believe the greatest experience rests in singing live in front of the audience. So concerts are definitely high on the priority list. I am considering offers and will soon be coming out with concert tours, Insha’Allah.
