Coke Studio 15 newest release, “Chal Chaliye,” resonates deeply with those who grew up in the 90s, evoking nostalgia, thanks to the iconic Sajjad Ali. The singer makes a major comeback with the international music franchise after six years. ‘Chal Chaliye’ is about “finding the courage to break free from limitations, follow your dreams, and fully embrace your true self, even in the face of challenges or criticism from the world.”
This collaboration, a testament to the vision of producer Zulfiqar Jabbar Khan, who portrays a man encouraging a woman to step beyond her comfort zone and embrace adventure. The track directed by Awais Gohar, opens with a lively cityscape reminiscent of a pre-Partition era. It then swiftly moves forward to a richly decorated room where Sajjad Ali sits, emanating experience and wisdom.
Farheen Raza Jaffry has a brief appearance but she is super impactful. Her powerful vocals skillfully capture the internal conflict between fear and the longing for adventure. Summing it up “Chal Chaliye” is a poignant exploration of hope, courage, and the choices we face. It underscores Coke Studio’s enduring legacy of uniting exceptional artists and crafting music that transcends boundaries.
For the unversed Sajjad Ali’s last appearance on Coke Studio was in 2017. Ali was a rage in the 90s with chartbuster hit ‘Babia’. He went on to release several prolific albums, such as ‘Chief Sahib’ and ‘Sohni Lag Di’. He also penned popular songs for Shoaib Mansoor’s hit film ‘Bol’ in 2011. His single album ‘Har Zulm’ was released in 2013.
In an exclusive conversation, he emphasized the importance of songwriting across genres, stating, “No matter the genre, memorable music is rooted in strong songwriting, which is enhanced by exposure to diverse music and a willingness to experiment.”
