Lost Album
A previously unreleased collection of music by the legendary Pakistani artist Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan, titled Chain of Light, has made its debut on YouTube, as announced by the production company behind the album. This long-awaited “lost album” features recordings made in 1990 at Real World Studios, capturing Khan at the height of his vocal prowess.
Chain of Light includes restored tracks sourced from original analog tapes, showcasing pristine versions of beloved classics such as “Ya Allah Ya Rehman” and the only known rendition of “Ya Gaus Ya Meeran.”
The release of this album is a significant event for fans and music lovers, highlighting the timeless artistry of Khan, who is often celebrated as one of the greatest voices in music history.
The project received support from the British Council and was celebrated through a series of launch events held across major cities, including Islamabad, Lahore, Karachi, Manchester, Birmingham, London, and Paris. These events culminated in the official release of the album on Friday.
In a recent post on X, English musician Peter Gabriel, who owns Real World Records, shared an excerpt from a short film detailing the rediscovery of Chain of Light in his production company’s archives. He expressed excitement over the album’s release, inviting fans to listen to it in full on the Real World Records YouTube channel.
This project is a collaborative effort between Pakistan’s Saiyna Bashir Studios, which is also working on a documentary biopic titled Ustad about Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan, and Gabriel’s Real World Records. The Ustad documentary is anticipated to be released in late 2025, further commemorating Khan’s immense legacy.
Last month, British High Commissioner to Pakistan Jane Marriott hosted a much-anticipated album launch event in Islamabad, generating significant excitement among fans and music enthusiasts alike.
Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan is renowned for his instrumental role in popularizing Qawwali music in the West, and throughout his illustrious career, he collaborated with prominent Western artists, including Peter Gabriel, Eddie Vedder of Pearl Jam, and celebrated producer Michael Brook.
His powerful vocals also featured in soundtracks for films directed by legendary filmmakers such as Martin Scorsese, Oliver Stone, and Tim Robbins.
Even decades after his passing, Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan continues to be a prominent figure in the music scene. He ranks among the top ten most-streamed artists on Spotify, with analytics revealing that 37% of his listeners are aged 18 to 22.
Additionally, the 23 to 27 age group constitutes 24% of his audience, while those aged 28 to 34 and listeners under 18 each make up 14%. This enduring popularity underscores his lasting influence and the profound impact of his music across generations.
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