Famous Pakistani Singers

Ustad Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan was a renowned Pakistani singer, songwriter, and music director known for his mastery of qawwali music, a form of Sufi devotional music. Referred to as the "Shahenshah-e-Qawwali," he is considered one of the greatest qawwali singers of all time. Khan introduced qawwali music to international audiences and collaborated with Western artists, expanding his influence on world music. He toured extensively, performing in over 40 countries and had a significant impact on contemporary South Asian popular music, including Pakistani and Indian pop as well as Bollywood music.

Atif Aslam is a renowned Pakistani playback singer, songwriter, composer, and actor. He gained popularity for his vocal belting technique and has recorded numerous songs in both Pakistan and India. Starting his music career in the early 2000s, he released his debut album "Jal Pari" and made his Bollywood debut in 2005 with the film Zeher. Aslam has contributed to Coke Studio and has received prestigious awards such as the Tamgha-e-Imtiaz and Lux Style Awards. He expanded his repertoire by singing in multiple languages and was recognized internationally with accolades like a star on the Dubai Walk of Fame and a feature in Forbes Asia's 100 Digital Stars.

Noor Jehan, also known as Malika-e-Tarannum, was a highly acclaimed playback singer and actress in British India and later in Pakistan. With a career spanning over six decades, she is regarded as one of the greatest singers in the Indian subcontinent. Noor Jehan excelled in various music genres, including Hindustani classical music. She holds the record, alongside Ahmed Rushdi, for lending her voice to the largest number of film songs in Pakistani cinema history. Additionally, she recorded thousands of songs in languages such as Urdu, Punjabi, and Sindhi, and is recognized as the first female Pakistani film director.

Mehdi Hassan Khan, known as Mehdi Hassan, was a highly acclaimed Pakistani ghazal singer and playback singer. Revered as the "Shahenshah-e-Ghazal" (Emperor of Ghazal), he is recognized for his haunting baritone voice and innovative approach to maintaining the integrity of ragas. Hassan's influence transcended borders, bringing ghazal singing to a global audience. Throughout his career, he sang for over 300 films and received numerous awards, including the prestigious Nishan-e-Imtiaz, Tamgha-e-Imtiaz, Pride of Performance, and Hilal-e-Imtiaz for his outstanding contributions to the arts.

Abida Parveen is a renowned Pakistani singer, composer, and musician specializing in Sufi music. With a powerful and emotive voice, she is known as the 'Queen of Sufi music' and has achieved global recognition for her performances. Parveen is skilled in various instruments such as the Pump organ, Keyboard, and Sitar. She has been featured in popular musical shows like Coke Studio and has participated as a judge in regional music contests. Parveen's repertoire includes ghazals, qawwali, Sufi rock, and classical music, showcasing her versatility and talent. She has received prestigious awards for her contributions to music, including Pakistan's highest civilian honors.

Farhan Saeed is a multi-talented Pakistani artist known for his contributions to the music, acting, and entrepreneurial industries. As a singer-songwriter, he gained fame as the former lead vocalist of the band Jal and has released songs in Urdu and Punjabi. Transitioning into acting, he made a notable debut in the drama "De Ijazat Jo Tu" and achieved critical acclaim for his roles in popular TV series like "Udaari," "Suno Chanda," and "Mere Humsafar." Saeed further expanded his career by venturing into the film industry with his debut in "Tich Button."

Nazia Hassan was a Pakistani singer-songwriter, lawyer, and social activist known as the Queen of South Asian Pop. She achieved international fame as part of the duo Nazia and Zoheb, selling over 65 million records worldwide. Hassan made her singing debut in 1980 and won the Filmfare Award for Best Female Playback Singer at 15, becoming the first Pakistani to win. She released several successful albums and singles, shaping the Pakistani pop music scene. Hassan's philanthropic work and role as a cultural ambassador for UNICEF showcased her dedication beyond music.

Attaullah Khan Esakhelvi is a renowned Pakistani musician, singer, and poet hailing from Isakhel in Mianwali District, Punjab. He is prominently recognized for his contributions to Punjabi folk music, having penned numerous songs and poems in the language. Throughout his career, Attaullah Khan has showcased his musical talent on various platforms, including his notable appearances on Coke Studio. His performances on the show, such as in seasons 4 and 10, have further solidified his reputation as a skilled and versatile artist in the music industry.

Mustafa Zahid is a renowned music composer and singer in both Bollywood and Pakistani music industries. He gained fame with his hit singles "Toh Phir Aao" and "Tera Mera Rishta" in 2007. Zahid has contributed his melodious voice to numerous successful Bollywood movie songs. Additionally, he serves as the frontman and lead vocalist of Roxen, a popular rock band established in 2004. Through his musical talent and versatile performances, Mustafa Zahid has made a significant impact on the music scene, captivating audiences with his soulful voice and compositions.

Junaid Jamshed Khan was a versatile Pakistani artist known for his contributions as a singer-songwriter, television personality, fashion designer, actor, and preacher. He gained fame as the vocalist of Vital Signs, with their album Vital Signs 1 being a commercial success that helped boost Pakistan's rock music industry. Transitioning to a solo career, he released several albums and later focused on religious activities, reciting nasheeds on TV and owning a clothing boutique. Tragically, he passed away in a plane crash in 2016 while returning from a religious mission.

Annie Khalid is a Pakistani-born British singer and model who gained fame in Pakistan in 2006 with the release of her single "Mahiya." This song was featured in the 2007 Indian film Awarapan and became the most-played Pakistani song for three consecutive years. Khalid's success in the music industry continued to grow as she released more hit songs and collaborated with various artists. Her unique voice and talent have solidified her position as a prominent figure in the music scene, both in Pakistan and internationally.

Sajjad Ali is a versatile Pakistani artist known for his contributions to semi-classical, pop, and rock music. He is also recognized for his work as a poet, actor, film director, and film producer. Hailing from Karachi, Pakistan, Sajjad Ali has made a significant impact in the entertainment industry with his diverse talents. With a career spanning several decades, he has garnered a loyal following and critical acclaim for his multifaceted artistic endeavors.

Imran Khan is a talented Dutch singer, songwriter, and rapper known for his versatile music in English and Punjabi. He gained recognition in 2007 with the release of his single "Ni Nachleh" and subsequently signed with Prestige Records. His hit single "Amplifier" in 2009 further solidified his success. Imran Khan's debut album, Unforgettable, was well-received upon its release in 2009. One of his most popular tracks, "Satisfya," has amassed over 905 million views on YouTube since its release in 2013.

Shafqat Amanat Ali Khan is a Pakistani pop and classical singer, songwriter, and composer known for his Sufi style of singing. He gained fame as the lead vocalist of the band Fuzön and achieved success in the Indian film industry with hit songs like "Mitwa" and "Yeh Honsla." He has released three solo albums and is recognized for his live performances in Coke Studio Pakistan. Ali has received prestigious awards, including the Presidential Pride of Performance in Pakistan and the Lifetime Achievement Honour from Government College University, Lahore. He is one of the most streamed Pakistani artists worldwide.

Iqbal Bano was a renowned Pakistani singer specializing in ghazal music. She earned the title of Malika-e-Ghazal (The Queen of Ghazal) for her exceptional talent. Her repertoire included semi-classical Urdu ghazal songs, classical thumris, and easy-listening numbers featured in films during the 1950s. In recognition of her contributions to music, she was honored with the Pride of Performance award in 1974. Iqbal Bano's professional career was characterized by her mastery of ghazal music and her ability to captivate audiences with her soulful performances.

Yasmine Yousaf is a prominent figure in the American electronic dance music scene as part of the duo Krewella. Alongside her sister Jahan, she has helped shape the band's unique sound, drawing influences from various electronic subgenres. Yasmine's professional journey includes the release of their debut EP, "Play Hard," and their album "Get Wet." Despite challenges like the departure of their third member, she has continued to contribute to Krewella's success, showcasing her talent and dedication to their music career.

Ahmed Ali Butt is a versatile Pakistani entertainer known for his work as an actor, comedian, television host, rapper, keyboardist, singer, and songwriter. He gained recognition through his involvement with the acclaimed rock band Entity Paradigm, where he showcased his talents as a vocalist and rapper. With a diverse range of skills and experiences in the entertainment industry, Ahmed Ali Butt has established himself as a prominent figure, captivating audiences with his performances across various platforms.

Ali Azmat Pacha is a prominent Pakistani singer-songwriter, musician, and actor. He gained fame as the lead vocalist of the renowned Sufi rock band Junoon and later pursued a successful solo career. He made history in 2001 by performing with Junoon at the United Nations General Assembly, marking a significant milestone for Pakistani music. Azmat's versatile talents have also led him to venture into acting, showcasing his range and commitment to his craft across multiple entertainment platforms.

Arif Lohar is a prominent Pakistani singer known for his association with Punjabi folk music and occasional acting roles. He gained widespread recognition in Pakistan and India following the success of his hit song "Jugni" in collaboration with Nooran Lal in 2006. Lohar is renowned for his performances with the traditional Punjabi musical instrument known as Chimta, adding a unique element to his folk music. His work reflects and celebrates the rich traditional folk heritage of Punjab, establishing him as a respected figure in the music industry.

Falak Shabir is a renowned Pakistani singer-songwriter known for his soulful music. He gained fame with his debut song "Rog," earning a TMA Award nomination. Nicknamed the "King of Soul Style," he has left a significant mark in the Bollywood music industry. Falak Shabir's professional journey is marked by his melodious compositions and heartfelt lyrics. His music resonates with audiences, showcasing his talent and versatility as an artist who continues to captivate listeners with his soul-stirring songs.

Ghazala Javed was a renowned Pashtun playback singer from Swat Valley, Pakistan. She started her singing career in 2004 and quickly gained popularity among young, progressive ethnic Pashtuns in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Her music transcended borders, becoming famous not only in Pakistan but also in neighbouring Afghanistan and among Pashtuns globally. Known for her powerful vocals and emotional performances, Ghazala Javed made a significant impact in the music industry, leaving a lasting legacy with her captivating songs.

Tipu Sharif, a Pakistani actor and singer-songwriter, has made a mark in the entertainment industry with his versatile talents. Known for his captivating performances on screen, he has garnered a strong fan base. His music resonates with audiences, showcasing his skills as a singer-songwriter. With a background in acting and a flair for music, Tipu Sharif continues to impress audiences with his creative endeavors, solidifying his position as a talented artist in both the acting and music spheres.