Coke Studio started in 2008. It is sponsored by Coca Cola company and hence the name. It was started by Rohail Hyat, from Vital Signs, who was the executive producer and did first six seasons. I never watched it until Strings took over and created season 7-10. My favorite season, till date is Season 9 though. I almost loved all its songs and was on my playlist for a long period of time. But this post is not about season 9. It is about a song Pareek – from Coke Studio Explorer which is hammering in my mind for the past two weeks now.

The song is fresh from the mountains. It is sung by Ariana and Amrina with full heart and the language is Kalasha. The music is divine and raw to the core and makes it what it is. Trust me, I didn’t understand a jack about what they were singing but the music surely takes you to another level of trans. Even my daughter is all ears when the song is on-aired.

This year, Ali Hamza and Zohaib Kazi, have come up as the new producer of the season and are doing a lot of experimentation with Coke Studio. Firstly, they have introduced a module called Coke Studio Explorer, which comprises  of 5-songs and is aired ahead of Coke Studio season 11. It is a beautiful attempt to showcase how musically rich our country is. All of these 5 songs are highlighting the language, music, instrumental supremacy of the place they are being sung from. Of all the songs though, Pareek meaning “Let’s Go” has taken my heart.

Other than exploring the music from every corner of Pakistan, this year’s season is introducing a couple of more stints. For example, for the first time ever, transgenders will make their duo in the music industry. I’m glad this long lost breed will be getting an acknowledgement of their existence in one way or another. Really appreciate this!

Secondly, more diversity will be seen in terms of old and new artists, music fusion and a rich tapestry of culture and tradition. There are thirty-nine artists including eight bands, five duos and twenty-six solo artists. This is a long list of talent waiting to be showcased to the world. I have always admired Ali Hamza’s work and I’m surely excited about the season itself.

Till then, Pareek it is!

Image Source: Wikipedia