“Do less work but ensure it is quality work that you are producing…”

 

Our honorary Outstanding British Pakistani of the Month is, non other than, our very own – Sajjad Ali! One of the pioneers of our Pakistani music industry and a well-known household name, he is coming back to London after 10 years to perform at Cadogan Hall on 22nd March! Following the success of his latest song Tamasha, with renowned rapper Bohemia, we caught up with Ali for a brief chat. 

Follow him on Twitter @sajjad_official

 

What changes do you see in upcoming artists today compared to artists when you first started in 1979?

From when I first started in the music industry to now a lot has changed. Over the years, many artists have entered the industry and the industry is now moving very quickly which is all a reflection of the times.

If you could collaborate with any artist (past or present) who would it be and why?

My most recent release, ‘Tamasha’ is a collaboration with world-famous rapper, Bohemia, who is very popular and has been very well received by everyone.

Collaborating with other artists often depends on the song, lyrics, concept, music and the current project that you are working on but definitely in the future, if there is an opportunity like ‘Tamasha’, I would like to work with more artists.

Who was (or were) your mentors when you started out and who do you look up to today?

As everyone knows, I come from a musical family that started with Ustad Ghulam Ali Khan. I trained in music from my father who was also my inspiration. Today, there are many good artists but the difference from when I was learning music to now is astronomical.

Looking back now at your journey, what is the best advice you could give yourself when you first started out?

The best advice I can give is to work hard as hard work always pays off and never compromise on quality – do less work but ensure it is quality work that you are producing.

What future projects can we look forward to by you in music, TV or film?

Just like ‘Tamasha’, in the future, I plan to continue to make quality compositions that connect with people and many more songs will be releasing very soon.