In just a few short years, music producer, singer and songwriter Abdullah Siddiqui has accomplished more than what most artists accomplish in an entire career.

He’s released three full-length albums after appearing on Nescafe Basement. He has already worked with the likes of Fawad Khan, Meesha Shafi, Aima Baig, Ali Suhail, Zoe Viccaji, Shamoon Ismail, Natasha Noorani as well as platforms such as True Brue TV, Coke Fest and Pakistan Super League. ‘Kingdom’ for Peshawar Zalmi is the first ever English language PSL official anthem for the Twenty20 team. Moreover, he is being picked up by the country’s big brands to create corporate jingles. He really is changing the sound of music.

It’s hardly surprising then that one of the country’s most coveted young artists, Abdullah Siddiqui has been acknowledged by Forbes on the prestigious 30 Under 30 Asia 2021 list.

Speaking about this achievement, Abdullah Siddiqui stated in a press statement: “I’m so thrilled to be included and recognized. I’m deeply grateful right now to everyone who’s listened to my work and supported me over the years. Really a surreal moment.”

Amidst multiple award nominations and victories throughout his young career, Abdullah Siddiqui is far from taking it easy. To that end, he is releasing his fourth album in the coming months.

As for why Forbes recognised the 20-year-old, they noted in a statement: “As Asia sees the light at the end of the Covid-19 tunnel, activists, entrepreneurs, scientists and young leaders on the Forbes 30 Under 30 Asia 2021 list are hard at work realizing the new normal. After the toughest year in their generation, these 300 Millennials and Gen Zs have persevered to survive and even thrive despite long lockdowns, restricted travel and uncertainties on all fronts. Selected from over 2,500 nominations and vetted by our team of reporters and a panel of A-list judges, these trailblazers are unparalleled examples of determination, hard work and innovation.”

We think this is a much-deserved accomplishment and we hope to see Abdullah getting recognised for his hard work in consistent fashion.

‘Royalties for artists’ emerges as a
campaign on social media

It began with a video of actor Naila Jaffery, who – while battling cancer – questioned relevant authorities on why artists were not given royalties for their work. She made it very clear that she was not looking for financial help or charity from the government but just her earned right as an artist. The video propelled a reaction within the industry as it went viral. In response, almost all relevant industry names took to social media to address the issue and ask for ‘RoyaltiesforArtists’. Among them were actors such as Mahira Khan, Humayun Saeed, Adnan Siddiqui, Ali Safina and many more.

Senator Faisal Javed Khan took notice and responded to the campaign in the following words:

“Most countries around the world give royalties/residuals to artists every time a show, their work is re-run, a 2nd time or more. However, sadly in Pak where many artists are already underpaid, there is no policy or law ensuring that artists be given financial credit for their work.”

He further tweeted: “Therefore, it is very critical to fill the gaps & bring proper framework via amendments in legislation to ensure that our producers, artists get their rights to royalties. Am in touch with all stakeholders & InshaAllah a comprehensive bill is being brought soon to address this very important issue.”

Actors such as Ali Zafar, Mikaal Zulfiqar, and many others thanked him for his response. Whether this becomes applicable to music where brands call the shots is also something that needs to be looked into so the entertainment industry, which includes music, is also preserved and musicians including folk artists are protected as well.

Meanwhile, Sindh Minister for Culture, Tourism and Antiquities, Sardar Ali Shah announced treatment for Naila Jaffery at Sindh government’s expense.

Jaubi release ‘Satanic Nafs’ from
upcoming debut album

Jaubi (which roughly translates to whatever) is a multicultural music group who play a blend of “Indian Classical to Jazz infusing rhythms from across the world to create music for global audiences”. Now back in the spotlight with ‘Satanic Nafs’ - their most recent release, the band has a lot coming up.

Covered by Rhythm Passport (for their newest single) as well as by The Guardian and Rolling Stone in the past, Jaubi defies genres. Just recently they even made it to a radio show on the iconic KCRW station for ‘Satanic Nafs (The Gaslamp Killer & Mophono Remix)’.

The song, a work of music embedded in spiritual context and composed in Raga Bairagi, is a teaser to their upcoming debut album, Nafs at Peace. The single features Edward “Tenderlonious” Cawthorne on the flute, soprano saxophone and clave. Marek P dziwiatr (EABS) is featured on keyboard and Minimoog Voyager with Ali Riaz Baqar playing the guitar. Other eastern instruments such as tabla and sarangi are played by maestros Kashif Ali Dhani & Zohaib Hassan Khan respectively with Qammar “Vicky” Abbas on drums.

The combined result is a band that sounds much more elaborate than just another Sufi-inspired rock band. There is depth, spiritual context and musical intricacies that are fascinating and triumphant.

After releasing several EPs, Jaubi is set to unveil its debut album and has received praise from the likes of Riz Ahmed. Head over to Bandcamp to find their music. It’s innovative and deserves the praise that has been bestowed on it, in the past and present.