May issue 2009

Remember the guy who made it big through an Indian channel’s singing competition SaReGaMaPa? If not, seen the model who introduces Annie to the TalkShawk world in the Telenor ads? This singer-turned-model, and a legend’s namesake, Amanat Ali, launched his first album on April 16 at the Pearl Continental hotel, Karachi. The album, titled Kohram, is expected to make waves, as the title of the album suggests.

A smart choice for the title track, “Kohram” is an upbeat song which will hopefully gain instant popularity among the youth, who seem to be the target audience. The song’s video has been directed by Ahsan Raheem and has been shot completely in Karachi. However, fast tracks are not all that the album offers. It promises a blend of songs, including classical tracks like “Thumri.” This mix of songs is what really proves the versatility of the singer. Also included in the album is “Tujhse Naraz Nahin Zindagi” — the song which gained Amanat popularity in SaReGaMaPa.

The album is a joint production of Telenor and Fire Records. In reply to a question, Telenor’s Manager Corporate Communications and Responsibility Affan Haider said that the company is committed to promoting local talent and would continue to promote other budding artists too. Amanat thanked Shiraz Uppal and Irfan Kiyani for supporting him during the journey. A number of celebrities from the showbiz world, including Sohail Rana, Aijazz Aslam, Annie and Farhan Ali Agha, were present on the occasion. The conference concluded with Ali singing a couple of songs from the album.