Daily Times

It is through music that we express ourselves and it is through music that we find peace in our busy lives. Most of us listen to music on our way to our universities or workplaces and we also listen to music while working or studying.

Music is an important part of our lives and it is impossible to imagine a world without music because of its presence in everything around us. From the sounds of nature to the way the sun rises and sets, there is music in everything.

It took millenniums for music to evolve into its current state where it exists in diverse forms and genres. Normally people prefer one genre over another, therefore, this list is not confined to one particular genre. The aim is to bring different genres together in one place. The tracks are also arranged randomly because it is extremely difficult to compare artists whose comparison is impossible. The purpose of this list is to celebrate musical diversity.

Hothon Se Choo Lo Tum by Jagjit Singh

This ghazal is one of the most famous ghazals of the late maestro, Jagjit Singh. Known for his melodious deep voice and his heartfelt lyrical delivery, he is still remembered as the King of Ghazal.

Voice of the Moon by Anoushka Shankar

This track by Anoushka Shankar, the daughter of the legendary Sitarist, is extremely beautiful. It was released in 2005 as a part of her album Rise which marked Anoushka’s journey into new horizons of music. With this track, Anoushka evokes various emotions in the hearts of her listeners.

Chhalke Teri Ankhon Se by Mohammad Rafi

Mohammad Rafi recorded this song in 1965 for the Indian film Arzoo. His melodious and joyous voice makes this song stand out from his other songs.

Aaj Jaane Ki Zid Na Karo by Fareeda Khanam

Usually sung in Raag Yaman Kalyan, this ghazal has been covered by many musicians across the world. It was written by Fayyaz Hashmi and was originally sung by Habib Wali Mohammad but Farida Khanum’s rendition remains the most popular of all.

The Times They Are a-Changin’ by Bob Dylan

This protest song by Bob Dylan established his reputation as a protest singer in the 60s. To this day, it is considered as the most influential anthem for change. It has been covered and quoted for the past many decades.

Dasht-e-Tanhai by Iqbal Bano

This ghazal was written by the revolutionary Pakistani poet, Faiz Ahmad Faiz and was immortalised by Iqbal Bano.

The Long Road by Ustad Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan and Eddie Vedder

Originally released as part of the 1996 film Dead Man Walking’s soundtrack, this track features Pakistani legendary qawwal, Ustad Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan alongside American singer Eddie Vedder. This track is the finest example of the magic that is produced when fusion of eastern and western music is done properly.

Kal Chaudhvin Ki Raat Thi by Ustad Asad Amanat Ali Khan

Ustad Asad Amanat Ali Khan’s rendition of Ibn Insha’s ghazal has no match. It is because of Asad’s melodious voice and the magical poetry of Ibn Insha that this ghazal is remembered as his best ghazal.

Ye Arzoo Thi Tujhe Gul Ke Robaroo Kartay by Ustad Amanat Ali Khan

Remembered as the greatest singer of the Patiala Gharana, Ustad Amanat Ali Khan continues to live in the hearts of the lovers of Indian classical music. His performances of ghazals and ragas are still unmatched. His rendition of this ghazal by Khwaja Haider Ali Aatish in the 70s led to his recognition as a ghazal singer.

Ranjish Hi Sahi by Mehdi Hassan

Hailed as Shahanshah-e-Ghazal with his perfect baritone voice, Mehdi Hassan, even in death, remains the most influential ghazal singer of all time. Ranjish Hi Sahi is regarded as his most famous ghazal.