In Pakistan, in the course of the Holy Month of Ramadan—or Ramzan, because it’s known as within the nation—folks alter their consuming, consuming, praying, and even listening habits. During this time of reflection, we see a notable rise in a single particular style on Spotify: Sufi.
Those who observe Ramzan respect the devotional qualities of the tracks, that are impressed by the works of Sufi poets. These lyrical items mirror the idea of being shut with God, making them a compelling hear for these in search of audio of a extra religious nature.
For the Record sat down with Spotify Senior Music Editor for Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh Rutaba Yaqub to be taught extra about Sufi listening in Pakistan in the course of the Holy Month.
In Pakistan, how do listening habits change throughout Ramzan?
About per week earlier than Ramzan, we begin seeing a sluggish uptick in tracks which might be form of devotional in nature, after which it takes over the charts as soon as Ramzan begins. This content material isn’t music, however moderately Islamic and non secular spoken phrase—type of like a capella that will characteristic an instrument just like a body drum. This form of devotional content material is absolutely common at first of Ramzan as folks give attention to fasting and reflecting.
And then, because the month progresses, we see folks within the nation begin to stream Sufi music, which is extra religious in nature.
How would you describe the sounds of Sufi?
Sufism, in itself, is the idea of being tremendous near God by being near your self and to your spirit. It’s a approach to join with God. Many Sufis had been additionally poets who wrote about their connection to God, how they achieved it, and what their journey was wish to get to that time. The poems are very religious and have been tailored into musical songs by completely different artists.
A preferred kind of Sufi music is Qawwali. It options devices just like the tabla, which is a pair of hand drums, and a harmonium, which is analogous to the accordion. When artists carry out this music, they’re at all times sitting on the bottom. Usually it’s a gaggle of individuals performing the vocals collectively.
Why do you assume listeners in Pakistan are drawn to this style throughout Ramzan?
This style is listened to year-round in Pakistan, however I believe it turns into much more common throughout Ramzan as a result of listeners wish to really feel nearer to God. Because the lyrics of Sufi tracks revolve round peace, discovering contentment, and full belief within the divine energy, these tracks have a really calming and uplifting impact.
Are extra mainstream artists dabbling within the Sufi style?
Over the years, extra mainstream Pakistani artists have launched Sufi tracks for Ramzan as a result of they know that’s the kind of content material their listeners are wanting throughout this time. Some common artists embrace Atif Aslam, Ali Zafar, and Bilal Saeed. Their Sufi tracks are melodic and have quite a lot of stringed devices. It’s excellent for listeners who’re looking for peaceable and calming music throughout this time.
Hear some high tracks from the style in our playlist beneath.