The Pakistani music scene has always been vibrant and full of talent, but every now and then, it’s also home to fiery debates and strong opinions. The latest controversy comes from renowned singer Falak Shabir, who recently took to Instagram to express his discontent with artists relying too heavily on rehashed classics instead of creating fresh content.
Falak, widely known for his chart-toppers like Roag, Ijazat, Tu Mera Dil, and Soniye, has consistently been praised for bringing emotional depth and originality to his work. He’s also performed extensively both in Pakistan and internationally, carving out a solid fan base.
However, his recent remarks on social media have stirred up quite a buzz. Without naming names directly, Falak Shabir criticized Atif Aslam and other singers for relying on the legendary Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan’s iconic qawwalis instead of producing original songs. In his Instagram story, Falak wrote:
“Khan Shahab ko unki akhri aram gah main tu aram karnay dein please. And work on some originals – I think we should let Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan’s soul in peace at his eternal resting place and should produce something new and original.”
The post quickly caught fire, with fans and critics chiming in. Many interpreted Falak’s comment as a direct reference to Atif Aslam, who recently performed a rendition of one of Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan’s masterpieces.
The public response has been mixed. While some agree with Falak and argue that it’s time for the industry to evolve and innovate, others believe his remarks come off as jealousy toward Atif Aslam’s massive success. Supporters of Atif argue that reviving classics is a form of tribute, not creative laziness.
Despite the controversy, Falak’s core message was about pushing creative boundaries and respecting the legacy of great artists without overusing their work. He also announced his contribution to the OST of ARY Digital’s upcoming drama Sher, proving that he continues to focus on producing original music.
In an era where remakes and covers are becoming the norm, Falak’s statement is a reminder of the importance of originality and artistic integrity. Whether or not people agree with his approach, it has certainly sparked a necessary conversation in the music industry.