I heard about this song via Sepia Mutiny, and I had to write about it.
The song is Laga Reh (keep going) by Shehzad Roy. I am sure Pakistani readers (at last count, there were 2) have seen it — this is for those who haven’t. Watch it right away.
What can I say, the song is superbly done — satire, music, hilarity — it’s all there. I believe Indians share many more issues with Pakistan than is apparent, so this song is as relevant to India — a reason why I’m posting the song.
Music can be used for social causes, but very few artists manage to blend it seamlessly so as to not take away anything from the art form. The basic element of satire is often art, and it is sadly overlooked at times. Mallika Sarabhai attempted something similar at TedIndia and failed miserably. Last checked, Michael Moore was on a downslide. On the other hand, Rabbi Shergill is gifted at it — just listen to Bilqis and Jugni for proof. I don’t know where Shehzad Roy stands in comparison and honestly, I’m hesitant to judge him — because more then being good at it, artists like him and Rabbi Shergill are essential. We don’t have bands like Rage Against The Machine in our countries, but I believe the underground market is huge for blatantly lyrical songs criticizing the system. A friend of mine had once expressed a desire to writing such songs, but I don’t know what the status is (any updates ?).
Oh, and I heard that this song was banned on Pakistani TV, can any of the Pakistani readers confirm this ?
The song was banned initially because of the lyrics and also some of the political characters depicted in the video. However, it was later aired back again….I guess they must’ve realised the nation is not as stupid as they might think or hope o.o ….
As far as the song is concerned, I totally agree….not only it brings awareness but it also portrays the ground realities of Pakistan. Its hard hitting yet fun and catchy..”naik woh hain jisse moka nahi milla”…he’s basically saying everybody’s corrupt when given the chance and that too so very bluntly. =P
Hes conveyed his message mixed with sarcasm “mujhe fikr yeh nahi ke yeh mulk kaise chal raha hai, mujhe fikr yeh hai ke kahin aise hi na chalta rahe” ..y’know..it totally works!
Not only this song but the album on the whole is very mature…if you liked laga reh, I’d recommend the title song of the album..Qismat Apne Haath Mein Le. Let me know what you think of that…
Anyways, political or not…he’s very honest and clear about his message and hat’s shehzad roy for you… He’s come a looooong way from when he first started and he’s definitely an asset for Pakistani nation.
By: brok3n on November 15, 2009
at 8:19 am
@brok3n : Thanks for the clarification.
I heard the title song, but I feel Laga Reh is better satire.
Either way, as I said, artists like him are essential.
By: Deepak Iyer on November 15, 2009
at 8:32 am
aree this song is nice!
By: sidd on November 16, 2009
at 4:14 am
@Sidd : You bet it is ! [:)] Fulfills all criteria for good satire.
You might also want to check out the other song mentioned by brok3n, although I liked this one better.
By: Deepak Iyer on November 16, 2009
at 7:35 am
V.Nice.
And yeah, we definitely need more balladeers of this kind.
By: Pronitha on November 16, 2009
at 8:35 am
speaking of music for social causes, I recently came across this nice old Marathi song. http://www.dhingana.com/play/jyanchya-gala-lagala-songs-jyanchya-gala-lagala-so/MzQ0NDA%3D/pop/1
It was written in the 40’s and is about life under British rule. Nice poetry by Ga Di Madgulkar
परवशता पाश दैवे ज्यांच्या गळा लागला
सौख्य भोग इतरा सारे, कष्ट मात्र त्याला
असुनी खास मालक घरचा, म्हणती चोर त्याला
मातृभूमी ज्याची त्याला, होत बंदिशाला
By: Nikhil on November 18, 2009
at 11:42 pm