In an exclusive interview with You! Umair shares his likes and dislikes with our readers…
you & me
Umair Butt has rapidly emerged as a prominent figure in the Punjabi music scene, captivating audiences with his unique blend of traditional Punjabi elements and contemporary flair. His breakthrough performance in Coke Studio Season 14 with the hit song ‘Neray Neray Vas’ showcased his exceptional talent and versatility. Umair’s ability to connect with listeners on a global scale was further cemented by his feature in the massively popular Coke Studio Season 15 track ‘Blockbuster’.
For Umair, who has been singing since he was seven years old, music has always been his first love. “My elder brother, Shamroz Butt, introduced me to music. He was connected to Adnan Dhool and Xulfi bhai, who were searching for talent to feature in the song ‘Neray Neray Vas’, from Coke Studio 14. They were in search of an authentic Punjabi voice - and Shamroz suggested that I would be a suitable fit for the song,” elucidates Umair.
Recently, Umair released his latest single, ‘Drama’. This vibrant Punjabi song, produced by international producer Maizu and directed by Murtaza Niaz, is a playful exploration of young love. With its catchy chorus and infectious energy, ‘Drama’ is a blend of traditional Punjabi elements with a modern twist. Umair’s unique approach to music is deeply rooted in his personal experiences and familial legacy. He draws inspiration from the rhythmic elegance of legendary artists like Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan, while also incorporating his own modern flair. In an exclusive interview with You! Umair shares his likes and dislikes with our readers…
How would you describe your music?
I would describe myself as a Punjabi artist; I aim to bring Punjabi music to an international scale. It is extremely important for me to remain authentic to my expression, so you could say that my music is an authentic expression of Punjabi music.
Are you a trained singer?
I have not been trained formally by anyone; however, I attribute my success to my mother who was a phenomenal singer. She is my mentor, my first music teacher.
Tell us about your latest song ‘Drama’?
‘Drama’ is the first song I’ve released independently, and I put my heart and soul into its conceptualisation and execution. The song narrates the story of a girl who constantly oscillates between affection and rejection, creating a dramatic and entertaining scenario that many will find relatable.
Your claim to fame song?
‘Blockbuster’. The trajectory of my life would have been very different if Xulfi bhai had not trusted me to execute his vision.
Have you released any music album so far?
I am currently working on an album.
Your favourite international music label?
Warner Music.
Your favourite international music celebrity?
Diljit Dosanjh and Karan Aujla.
Your favourite music composer?
A. R. Rahman.
Who is your icon in the music industry?
Again, A. R. Rahman.
What was the role of music in your early years of life?
Music was an integral part of my childhood, and it was also one of the ways I connected with my mother.
Who was your favourite star when you were growing up?
Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan.
Your most irritating habit...
People tend to get irritated by how introverted I am. I am generally a bit reserved, and while I do not consider it annoying, some people are put off by it.
You don’t like people who are…
Too talkative.
You are afraid of…
Nothing, really.
Your most valuable possession?
My father.
What bores you the most?
Staying idle and purposeless.
You are crazy about…
Music.
What is your favourite tune nowadays?
‘Jhol’ by Annural and Maanu.
If you could have a musician tag along with you on tour, whom would you choose?
A. R. Rahman.
If you had access to a time machine, which era would you revisit?
I would revisit the era where my mother was still with us.
Do you agree that it is important to learn and understand old music and its history?
100 per cent. You learn so much from old music and the history behind it. Artists like Abida Jee, Nayyara Noor, Ghulam Ali Sahab - I listen to them frequently, and it is an important part of my creative process to do so. It equips me with knowledge about composition, and how to incorporate modern elements to conventional music, and vice versa. I try to incorporate classical elements to hip hop, which is possible due to my broad listening experience.
Song that always gets you on the dance floor?
‘Mi Gente’ by J Balvin.
What’s the last thing you bought?
A perfume.
You get super uncomfortable when…
I have to make public appearances.
What do you usually wear in your daily life?
I love wearing oversized clothing.
How do you unwind?
By spending quality time with my friends. Also, I tend to pray, read and recite the Quran. My relationship with God has played a key role in helping me stay composed.
What’s the most important relationship lesson you have learned so far?
The importance of treating everyone with respect and kindness.
Your favourite Netflix series?
‘Money Heist’.
Your favourite quote that describes your philosophy too…
“Be kind whenever possible. It is always possible.”
Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
In 5 years, I see myself as an artist who has successfully been able to uplift the Punjabi music scene on a global level.
