Abida Parveen, the global music icon, has recently been honoured as Spotify’s EQUAL ambassador. You! takes a look…
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Abida Parveen, born in 1954 in Larkana, is not just a name but an institution in the world of Sufi music. From an early age, her voice had begun garnering appreciation in her hometown, but it was her father, Ustad Ghulam Haider, a renowned music teacher, who first recognised her gift. Under his tutelage, Abida began her journey into the mystical realm of Sufism, where poetry and melody intertwine to create an ethereal experience. Little did the world know that this young girl would grow up to become one of the most revered Sufi singers of all time.
Abida Parveen’s rise to prominence was not an overnight phenomenon. Her deep, soulful voice, coupled with an innate ability to convey profound spiritual messages through her singing, resonated with audiences far and wide. As she continued to perform, her reputation grew, and soon she became a household name, not just in Pakistan but in many parts of the world. Her renditions of Sufi poetry, particularly those of Bulleh Shah, Shah Abdul Latif Bhittai, and Rumi, have earned her a place in the hearts of millions, transcending cultural and linguistic barriers.
Over the years, Abida Parveen has achieved numerous milestones in her illustrious career. She has performed at some of the most prestigious venues globally and has been honoured with several awards, including the Sitara-i-Imtiaz and the Hilal-i-Imtiaz, two of Pakistan’s highest civilian honours. Her music is a staple at Sufi shrines, spiritual gatherings, and international music festivals, where her voice is often described as a bridge between the earthly and the divine.
Among her most celebrated tracks are ‘Yaar Ko Hamne Ja Ba Ja Dekha’, ‘Mera Sohna Sajan Ghar Aaya’, ‘Ghoom Charakhra’ and more recently ‘Tu Jhoom’, a powerful collaboration with Naseebo Lal, an artist regarded as a powerhouse in herself. These tracks, along with many others, have become anthems of Sufi music over the years.
In recent years, Abida Parveen’s global influence has only grown stronger. This was further solidified when she was named Spotify’s EQUAL Pakistan and EQUAL Global ambassador in August. These honours reflect her legendary status and the enduring impact of her music.
One of the most iconic moments of this recognition was when Abida Parveen’s image was displayed on the Times Square digital billboard in New York City. For any artist, appearing on this stage is a mark of international acclaim, but for Abida, it was a moment that brought the soul of Sufi music to one of the busiest intersections.
Data from Spotify further highlights the global appreciation of her music. Her tracks have been streamed extensively in countries like India, the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia. Interestingly, her audience is diverse, with 58 per cent male and 38 per cent female listeners, showing that her music resonates across different demographics.
More interestingly, age-wise, the listeners of her music include youngsters and adults alike. This points to the timeless nature of her music, appealing not only to those who grew up listening to her but also to a younger generation discovering the profound beauty of Sufi music for the first time.
Abida Parveen’s journey is a reminder that music, when it comes from the heart and soul, has the power to touch lives everywhere, regardless of language or geography. Her voice, which carries the weight of centuries-old Sufi wisdom, continues to inspire and uplift millions. As she takes her place as a global ambassador for Pakistani music on platforms like Spotify, it’s clear that her legacy is not just a part of the past but a living, breathing force that will continue to influence generations to come.
- You! desk
