Ali Sethi is a Pakistani artist who found fame through both writing and singing.
From Novel to Song
Sethi’s early success came with his novel, “The Wish Maker,” a coming-of-age story set in his hometown of Lahore. The book explored themes of adolescence, family, and a rapidly changing Pakistan. However, Sethi later felt the limitations of a realistic style in capturing the complexities of his country.
Finding His Voice in Music
While finishing his novel, Sethi faced a period of danger due to his family’s work as a journalist. This experience led him to India, where he eventually began his musical journey. It all started with a casual performance of a traditional ghazal. His rendition impressed filmmaker Mira Nair, who encouraged him to record it. This song became the first step towards a new career path.
More Than a Pop Star
Sethi’s music isn’t just catchy tunes. He uses his platform to promote the inclusivity of traditional South Asian music. He sees this music as a way to bridge cultural divides. Sethi also uses his social media to talk about the importance of LGBTQ+ representation in South Asian art.
New Music and Collaboration
Sethi’s upcoming album will be a blend of English, Urdu, and Punjabi. He aims to create a unique sound that mixes traditional styles with modern global beats. He doesn’t see his music as a simple combination of different genres, but rather as a transformation of each element into something new.
Sethi hopes his music will not only entertain but also encourage people to embrace change and understanding. He believes music has the power to bring people together, but the key is to be open to being transformed by the experience.