Annural Khalid - a shining star

music

Wrapped 2024 is all the hype! With the year coming to an end, music streamers across the globe are ecstatic to relive their year through their favourite tracks. Pakistan is no different and as usual, there is a lot to celebrate again. And here, we honour 2024’s top woman artist; the effervescent Annural Khalid.

With her genre-defying sound and captivating lyrics, Annural Khalid has emerged as a trailblazer in Pakistan’s music industry. Recognised as Spotify’s top woman artist of 2024 Wrapped, Annural’s year has been nothing short of transformative. Her hit single ‘Jhol’ which combines chill pop and R&B vibes, claimed the title of the most-streamed song of the year on the platform, marking a significant milestone for women in the local music scene.

Annural’s rise in popularity is evidenced by her 184 per cent year-on-year growth in streams, a fact that highlights the magnetic pull of her music. Beyond the numbers, ‘Jhol’ represents the evolution of contemporary Pakistani music, where innovation and cultural roots intersect.

The Islamabad-based singer, songwriter and composer’s musical journey began at an early age. Describing herself as having “started singing around the same time I learned how to speak,” her passion for music has been a lifelong pursuit. “Music makes me the happiest; it has been my means of coping with different emotions ever since I was a child. It’s something I feel like I can do for life,” elucidates Annural, who started her music journey in 2020, setting the stage for a career that has steadily gained momentum. Annural’s first song ‘Faaslay’ released in February 2021. Since then, she has released multiple originals of her own and collaborated with renowned different artists. Her musical journey is a representation and extension of her love and passion for music. Her arsenal has a great deal of variety with songs such as ‘Kehdena’, ‘Mujhe Leh Chal, ‘Dil de Bol’, ‘Pretty Lies’, ‘Trust issues’ and ‘Sohneya Ve’.

This year, Annural made history as the first woman artist selected for Spotify’s RADAR Pakistan programme, which spotlights emerging talent from around the country. The recognition placed her alongside a roster of breakout stars and amplified her voice to a global audience.

Considered one of Gen Z’s favourite Pakistani singer-songwriters, Annural’s soulful voice and heartfelt lyrics have captivated audiences worldwide. Recognised as the July 2023 EQUAL Pakistan artist, Annural’s success is fuelled by her unwavering commitment to her craft. A devoted Rihanna fan, she draws inspiration from global icons while staying true to her unique sound. Her music, often described as an eclectic mix of chill pop and R&B, defies strict categorisation. Her unique blend of desi R&B and pop has solidified her position as a rising star.

This versatility is a hallmark of her talents, allowing her to explore different themes and emotions through her songs.

Spotify Pakistan has served as a key force, driving global recognition for a diverse range of artists especially women. The iconic EQUAL programme has brought to light a host of fresh voices to the local music scene while providing artists with the push they need to connect with their true fan base. Through Wrapped 2024, this platform is once again highlighting everything musical there was to cherish during the year.

Annural’s achievements in the world of music are not just personal milestones - they are a significant step forward for women in Pakistan’s music industry. Her recognition as Spotify’s top woman artist of 2024 Wrapped underscores the growing influence of women in a traditionally male-dominated space. By breaking barriers and setting new benchmarks, Annural is paving the way for a new generation of woman artists to follow their dreams.

On YouTube alone, Annural’s music amassed over 2 million hours of playtime (equivalent to 229 years) and garnered more than 45 million views across 173 countries in 2024. Pakistan, India, and the United Kingdom emerged as the top three countries for her music.

As 2024 draws to a close, Annural Khalid is poised for even greater achievements. Her upcoming album promises to be a blend of innovation and authenticity, reflecting her journey as an artist and a person. With platforms like Equal providing opportunities for local talent to shine on a global stage, Annural’s success has become a symbol for aspiring musicians in Pakistan.

Annural agrees that it is important to learn and understand old music and its history as it gives one a better sense of music, “However, learning is just a tool, one needs to be imaginative enough to create music,” she reflects. While sharing her ultimate desire with our readers, Annural says, “I want to go worldwide with my music, give back to the world, and make opportunities for the less fortunate.”

- You desk!