LAHORE: After the success of the first season of Alhamra Unplugged launched in 2017, the Lahore Arts Council has introduced Alhamra Unplugged Season 2, aiming to take the platform to new heights.

The Season 2 auditions were conducted at prestigious institutions, including LUMS, Beaconhouse National University (BNU), Lahore School of Economics (LSE), Kinnaird College, FC College, GCU and LGS, alongside open auditions at Alhamra, ensuring accessibility to all aspiring singers. Over 3,000 contestants participated in the auditions, reflecting the platform’s growing popularity and reach.

From these, 80 promising singers were selected, representing not just Punjab but also Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Balochistan, and even the United Kingdom, creating a rich and diverse pool of talent.

What sets Alhamra Unplugged Season 2 apart from platforms like Coke Studio and Nescafe Basement is its distinctive vision. The project emphasizes a unique approach to song selection, incorporating a wide range of genres, innovative instrumentation and the inclusion of both emerging and lesser-explored talent. This creative diversity ensures that Alhamra Unplugged offers a refreshing and original musical experience.

The upcoming season will feature 21 songs, a mix of soulful covers and powerful original compositions, designed to resonate with a broader audience. Additionally, iconic singers like Javed Bashir and Suraiya Multanikar are contributing to the project, adding depth and prestige with their presence. Their involvement amplifies the platform’s ability to merge experience with fresh perspectives.

Music producer and project director Abubakar Javed is dedicated to making the project a grand success. With unwavering support from Minister for Culture Azma Bokhari and the executive director of the Lahore Arts Council Touqeer Haider Kazmi, Alhamra Unplugged Season 2 is stated to be not just a music initiative but a movement to empower youth, foster creativity and inspire transformation in the music industry. Together, they aim to redefine the musical landscape of Pakistan by providing a world-class platform for emerging singers.

Alhamra Unplugged is a vibrant musical platform designed to empower young talent, initiated in 2015. Its first season in 2017 was a great success. Out of 500 auditions, 20 exceptional singers and musicians were selected for the debut season, which captivated audiences with its fresh approach and raw talent. Season 2 is expected to bring about the same results.

Published in Dawn, January 28th, 2025