akae Jamil has known Haniya since her early years in music, when she and Zeb Bangash were colloborating on their unforgettable debut album, Chup. He recalls, “I remember first seeing Zeb and Haniya together at my aunt’s house. They came over, and my aunt actually told me, ‘Please come, you must listen to them.’ It was back in 2006-2007. And of course, when they played for us, I was completely stunned and just bowled over. They could sing in multiple languages.

It was amazing to hear some of those songs when they recorded their debut album at Mekaal Hasan’s studio. They also knew Bilal Sami very well. He was a friend and I think Bilal and Haniya were friends. Bilal used to write songs for Haniya back in the day. I remember hearing one of their songs and thinking, ‘What? This is insane and amazing’.” Rakae continued, “During Coke Studio 11, we bonded a lot because we were all working together in one house, you know, in the post-production phase. Me, Haniya, Mekaal—were a part of the audio team, mixing that season’s songs. It was the most magical time we had together. I remember this one night, or early morning, around one or two. We’d spend nights working on the audio editing, and on one such occasion, Haniya made me listen to ‘Ayi Re’ on the guitar, and that was the most magical moment. Hearing her sing that song, I was completely blown away. The way she sang it was so beautiful and so powerful. I just wanted to hear it over and over again. Of course, she later released the song, but that moment was amazing. As a person, Haniya was just so giving, and so generous. Last year, my sisters, who live abroad, came over. She was in town, and I asked Haniya if she could come over for a little jam session for them. They love her music. Since they were here, I thought it’d be nice to have a little dinner and entertainment. And she just immediately agreed. Haniya Aslam’s passing is a significant loss to the music industry and to those who knew and admired her. It’s heartwarming to see the outpouring of tributes and love for her. May she rest in peace.”

Haniya Aslam worked closely with Rakae Jamil in Islamabad at his Red Brick Studio facility where she’d often recorded material and he also played sitar on their first Coke Studio appearance in the music series’ second season.

– Haniya Aslam photo by Kohi Marri