Updating location...
Picture of Arooj Aftab

Arooj Aftab

201K followers

1 upcoming shows

Upcoming Events

NEAR YOU

OTHER ARTIST EVENTS

About

Arooj Aftab (born in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, on 11 March 1985) is a Saudi-born Pakistani vocalist, music composer, and producer based in the United States. She works in various musical styles and idioms including jazz, minimalism, and neo-Sufi. Aftab won the News & Documentary Award at the 2018 Emmy Awards. She was nominated for the Best New Artist award, and won the Best Global Music Performance award for her song "Mohabbat", at the 64th Annual Grammy Awards in April 2022. She became the first-ever Pakistani artist to win a Grammy Award. Read more on Last.fm

Genres

  • pakistani indie

Frequently Asked Questions

Which language does Arooj Aftab sing in?
Arooj Aftab is renowned for her multilingual vocal performances, primarily singing in Urdu, the national language of Pakistan. Her expressive delivery of Urdu poetry and lyrics sets her apart in the global music scene, blending rich South Asian literary traditions with contemporary music sensibilities. Occasionally, she also incorporates English lyrics and phrases into her songs, creating a cross-cultural musical experience that resonates with diverse audiences worldwide. Aftab's mastery of Urdu allows her to convey deep emotion and nuance, whether she is interpreting traditional ghazals, original compositions, or reimagined classics. This linguistic versatility is a key element of her unique artistry, drawing listeners who appreciate both the beauty of the language and the evocative power of her voice. As her international acclaim grows, Arooj Aftab continues to introduce the beauty of Urdu music and poetry to new audiences, seamlessly blending heritage and innovation in every performance.
What instruments are used in Arooj Aftab Mohabbat?
In her acclaimed track "Mohabbat," Arooj Aftab crafts a sonic landscape that is both intimate and expansive, using a distinctive blend of instruments. The song features the soulful sound of the acoustic guitar, which provides a gentle yet resonant foundation. Aftab's haunting vocals are accompanied by a subtle upright bass, adding depth and warmth to the arrangement. The track also incorporates delicate string elements, such as violin or cello, which lend an ethereal, melancholic quality to the composition. Minimalist piano touches further enhance the emotional ambiance, while tasteful percussion infuses the piece with a gentle rhythmic pulse. This carefully curated ensemble of instruments creates a rich tapestry of sound, allowing the poetry and emotion of "Mohabbat"
Is Arooj Aftab jazz?
While Arooj Aftab's music often incorporates jazz elements, she is not strictly classified as a jazz artist. Her sound is best described as a fusion that bridges genres, blending traditional South Asian music with alternative rock, minimalism, and jazz influences. Aftab's compositions are characterized by improvisational structures, complex harmonies, and expressive phrasing
What genre is Arooj Aftab?
Arooj Aftab's genre is best described as a sophisticated blend of alternative rock, world music, and experimental fusion. While she is officially categorized under "Rock"
Where is Arooj Aftab based?
Arooj Aftab is currently based in Brooklyn, New York, a vibrant hub for innovative music and multicultural artistic collaboration. Originally from Lahore, Pakistan, Aftab moved to the United States to further her musical education and career, eventually becoming an integral part of New York's diverse and dynamic music scene. Brooklyn's rich tapestry of genres and its open-minded creative community provide an ideal environment for Aftab's boundary-pushing sound. Her presence in New York has allowed her to collaborate with an array of international musicians, blending influences from South Asia, jazz, electronic, and alternative rock. Being based in Brooklyn has also enabled Aftab to reach a global audience, performing at prestigious venues and festivals worldwide. Her unique fusion of Pakistani heritage and contemporary New York influences has established her as a leading figure in the world music scene, making Brooklyn the perfect home base for her continually evolving artistry.

Log in to Gigfomo