KARACHI – Legendary Pakistani singer Waris Baig on Monday expressed disappointment towards former cricketer Wasim Akram for making a video on social media sensation Chahat Fateh Ali’s song “Bado Badi” instead of promoting iconic artists like Madam Noor Jehan.
Baig, during his appearance on actor and host Ahmed Ali Butt’s podcast, shared his thoughts on the current state of the Pakistani music industry. He lamented the lack of dedication to learning music in today’s era, stating that many aspiring singers consider themselves professionals without proper training. “In today’s world, people don’t want to learn music. If someone has a slightly good voice, they immediately assume they are a singer,” he remarked.
Waris Baig emphasized the importance of music teachers, who continue to train artists with exceptional skill, but expressed concern that most people no longer seek proper guidance.
“We have talented teachers who teach outstanding music, but people don’t want to learn from them anymore. Social media has turned people like Chahat Fateh Ali into singers,” he said.
The singer specifically addressed Wasim Akram’s video featuring Chahat’s “Bado Badi,” expressing his grievance that Akram had chosen to promote a social media personality rather than paying tribute to legendary artists.
“I have a grievance with Wasim Akram. He made a video on Chahat’s ‘Bado Badi’ but never made one on any song by Madam Noor Jehan,” he stated.
Baig further criticized the trend of promoting social media stars over genuinely talented musicians, noting that the music industry is increasingly focused on fame rather than talent. “The reality is, we don’t bring forward truly talented artists. We only promote those who are famous on social media,” he said.
Baig urged the public to recognize the distinction between Chahat Fateh Ali and legendary singers.
“Let Chahat remain Chahat; he is not Fateh Ali Khan. He gave himself that name, but we should not turn him into Fateh Ali Khan,” he added.
