Who is This Person?
A Honorable Mention.
Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan
Why is he a Honorable Mention?
Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan, the ‘King of Qawwali’, one of the few legendary names in Pakistani music history. He had an incredible voice and a remarkable talent that gave him the title of ‘King of Qawwali’, for which, Sufi music is deeply rooted: devotional and spiritual forms in which it has ties to Qawwali from traditional to very contemporary. But how did he achieve such great fame, with mark as one of the most prominent vocalists in history?
What is Qawwali?
Indian subcontinent saw the birth of Qawwali, which is associated with Sufi devotional music and characterized by performances featuring vocals largely complemented by accompanying musical instruments such as tabla, harmonium, and dholak. The meaning of lyrics in qawwali is oriented toward spirituality, love toward, and yearning for the Divine, since their purpose is to uplift the listener in spirit and bring him or her closer to a state of spiritual ecstasy.
Traditionally, Qawwali is performed in Sufi shrines and during congregational activities, which is a grant that brings about spiritual reflection towards the unification process with God. Powerful rhythms, passionate vocals, and refrains building in intensity thus create a communion atmosphere that urges the devotee into transcending restrictions.