Habib Wahid’s rise started with his 2003 début album “Krishno”, which proved to be a success in Britain and Bangladesh. In the next few years, Habib released five albums — “Maya” (2004), “Moina Go…” (2005), “Shono” (2006), “Panjabiwala” (2007), “Bolchi Tomake” (2008) and “Aboseshe” (2008). His latest work, “Ahban” did not go unrewarded, as it turned out to be a commercial hit. The artiste had a natter with The Daily Star (TDS) on his new album and other subjects:
TDS: Tell us about the songs on “Ahban”…
Habib: From the beginning, my plans were to produce songs that would be a change from my previous compositions. Now that the job’s done, I believe that I was successful on that front. Some of the songs in “Ahban” are completely experimental. I put more emphasis on melody — while composing and making music arrangements for the songs. Three duets have been included along with the singles. Kona and Nancy lent their voices with me for the songs. The album came out under the banner of Deadline Music and was sponsored by Banglalink.
TDS: How was the audience response?
Habib: I’ve been receiving good reviews since the album came out. I feel great, as many people have given it thumbs up. In the first few days following the release of “Ahban” (April 29), nearly a million people listened to the songs, according to Banglalink.
TDS: You recently got an award?
Habib: Yes. I recently got the Meril-Prothom Alo Award, thanks to the love of my listeners.
TDS: “Ahban” was first introduced through mobile phone service, then FM Radio and finally it came out as an album. How do you feel about this trend?
Habib: I believe it will create a new practice in the music arena. Audience’s habits and tastes are changing constantly. It is the same for music. Our listening practices have also gone through a change in recent times. Cell phones have become an integral part of our lifestyle and a popular medium for listening to music, along with FM stations. The overall release process for “Ahban” was great fun.
TDS: Tell us about the project with Nancy that you’re currently working on…
Habib: I’m doing most of the work on Nancy’s album. We had planned this a long time ago, but due to my busy schedule it was not realised. Hopefully work will be completed within the year.
TDS: Any progress on the albums featuring singers Helal and Kaya?
Habib: The voice recordings are complete, and I’ve also done some work on the tunes. The albums will have folk songs.
TDS: Any plan currently on your plate?
Habib: I have plans to compose rock songs in the future. I also want to use more Ragas in my songs.
TDS: Tell us about your work for films…
Habib: Truth be told, I don’t enjoy working for films like I used to. The stark contrast between imagination and reality has struck concern into my heart. A lot of work goes into the making of a song for a movie. But I often get disappointed seeing how that song has been picturised on the screen. If the songs were appropriately portrayed, then they would’ve reached new heights of popularity.
TDS: Singing needs dedication and regular practice. How do you manage that?
Habib: My method of practice is a bit different. I sit inside the studio for hours and prefer perfecting the tunes — rather than the singing part. The joy of creating music is one that cannot be described.
TDS: How long did it take to produce the songs on “Ahban”?
Habib: I did my work on the songs at different times. But majority of work on the album was done this year. The song “Ek Jhak Paira” was made a long time ago. “Ahban” — the title track — was recorded last and I put it as the opening song on the album.
TDS: Any memorable incident during the song making process?
Habib: I was in Chittagong with my friend Mithun. While relaxing at the hotel, the idea for the song “Ahban” popped into my mind. A tune soon followed. With Mithun’s encouragement, I wrote most of the song in that hotel room. The rest of the work was done after returning to Dhaka.
Courtesy of The Daily Star
