While some call it the U2 of South Asia, others say the term ‘Sufi Rock’ was coined for it, but for Salman Ahmad, 48, the lead guitarist and founder of Pakistan-based band Junoon, the band is all about following the passion for music.
“Junoon is a vibe. The band takes influences from all music genres and rhythm styles. We came to India for the first time with the song, Sayonee, and people labelled us as a sufi rock band. However, I don’t like labels that much,” says Ahmad, who earlier used to be a member of a Pakistan-based pop rock band, Vital Signs.
Talking about his performance in Delhi, he says, “Delhi is very junooni (passionate)! We will definitely perform Sayonee, as it gets the biggest cheer at concerts even today. I would want to dedicate a line to the audience of the city — ‘
Yaaron yehi hai dosti, jo kismat se mili hai’
,” says Ahmad. The singer will be performing some of his popular numbers such as Sayonee, Bulleya and Yaar Bina Dil Mera Nai Lagda tonight.
Ahmad’s Indian fans will also be able to see him on the big screen soon, as he will be making his Bollywood debut with the film, Rhythm, in which he will be playing the role of a rockstar, who inspires a college girl to follow her passion for music. “I have done many plays and documentaries before, but this will be the first time that the Indian audience will get to see me on the big screen. I’ve also recorded songs for the movie, including a duet with Sunidhi Chauhan titled, Yaaro,” he says.
Ahmad’s Indian fans will also be able to see him on the big screen soon, as he will be making his Bollywood debut with the film, Rhythm, in which he will be playing the role of a rockstar, who inspires a college girl to follow her passion for music. “I have done many plays and documentaries before, but this will be the first time that the Indian audience will get to see me on the big screen. I’ve also recorded songs for the movie, including a duet with Sunidhi Chauhan titled, Yaaro,” he says.
Ahmad has also penned a book titled Rock n Roll Jihaad that narrates his own story. “It is about the journey of a doctor who followed his passion to become a musician. It also tells the story of a Pakistani man travelling across the world in post 9/11 times,” he says.
As to his message for budding sufi rockers of the Capital, Ahmad says, “If you have the will and the passion, then don’t give up.”
Catch him live
What:
Junoon Live
When:
May 10
Timings:
10pm onwards
Where:
Blue Frog, The Kila, Seven Style Mile, Mehrauli
Entry:
Rs 800
Nearest Metro Station:
Qutub Minar on the Yellow Line
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