Daily Times

The talented singer-turned-actor Goher Mumtaz performed recently at Coke Fest, Islamabad. I sat him down for an exciting conversation about life and beyond.

How did you venture into music?

I was in sixth grade when I realised my passion to form a band. I often listened to Junoon on my walkman and CD player. There is a saying that when you wholeheartedly wish to do something, it begins to happen. I participated in a singing competition at my university and eventually won out of all 54 competitors. I sung ‘Ajana’ by Najam Sheraz and gained immense confidence from it.

How has your life changed since Jal?

It has changed entirely. I was a university student pursuing a degree in Computer Sciences but during Jal, I traveled, toured and made new music. Obviously, your routine suffers but I had a ball.

Are you blessed with the kind of success you have received post Jal?

With success comes more responsibility. You sort of vent out success for a while but you have to keep working on it. Jal has produced three studio albums; ‘Aadat’, ‘Boondh’ and ‘Pyaas’. Coming here and seeing people reminisce those songs is a real achievement than any award we have won.

Which song of yours has resonated the most with your fans that you have found impactful as well?

It was ‘Panchi’ for Coke Studio. Besides being close to that song, I believe our fans appreciated that version a lot.

What do you appreciate the most about your line of work?

It is the arrangement with your band members. You anticipate their response when you come up with a new composition and share it with them. It is exciting to see them provide their individual inputs. The idea of recording a particular song and hearing it later makes you feel accomplished.

The most troublesome part about it?

There is no routine. I get to hear many complaints from my family, including my wife (laughs).

What can fans expect from you in music?

We are working on a new music video. The song is titled ‘Bhavarey’and we begin shooting next week.

Why did you opt for acting?

It was not by choice (smiles) but some people known as ‘industry gurus’ said that I have the potential to appear on television. I told them no, I am busy doing music and I am enjoying it but they said I should give it a shot. So far, it has been great. My friend, Rashid Khawaja sahab and Nina convinced me to act. I am very selective in my roles. Acting has more mass value for an artist’s profile. I guess it is a package these days; a singer and an actor.

Would you say you are a good actor based on your ability?

I would never say that for the next 20 years.

What is next on your wish list?

To do a musical film.

Published in Daily Times, February 1^st 2019.