In a world where borders seem to grow taller by the day, Ali Sethi’s music makes us cross the chasms of politics and nationalism – if only in YouTube comments. Born in Pakistan but now a resident of Manhattan’s East Village, Sethi is still riding the 2022 global hit. Pashuri.
In an interview with The New York TimesSethi reflects on the inspiration behind Pashuri and its importance in today’s world. “It’s a love song, a bit of a flower bomb thrown at nationalism, a queer anthem, a protest song, a power ballad, a unity song,” he shares, emphasizing the multifaceted nature of his creation.
With its infectious beats, performed as a duet with Shae Gill, the song showcases Sethi’s eclectic style. At this point, most are familiar with the mix of flamenco handclaps with a reggaeton beat, creating a sound that defies categorization. But beyond its catchy tune lies a deeper message – one that has sparked conversations about love, identity and the power of music.
Its genesis Pashuri it goes back to a failed collaboration with an Indian organization, a consequence of strained relations between India and Pakistan. However, Sethi’s vision transcends geopolitical tensions, aiming to bridge divides through the universal language of music. The song has amassed an astonishing 850 million views on YouTube, resonating with audiences far beyond its original cultural context, including a significant audience in India.
At 39, Sethi is a master of microtonal singing, developing his craft under the tutelage of renowned Pakistani artists Ustad Saami and Farida Khanum. Despite societal expectations to pursue a conventional career, Sethi followed his passion for the arts. His debut novel, The Wish Maker, offered a glimpse into Pakistani society, navigating themes of adolescence, globalization and cultural identity. However, Sethi acknowledges his limitations in capturing the complexities of his homeland, especially amid periods of political unrest and sectarian violence.
His journey took an incredible turn when he teamed up with acclaimed director Mira Nair in The reluctant fundamentalist. Sethi’s rendition of a classical ghazal caught Nair’s attention, propelling him into the world of music. Since then, the singer has become a vocal advocate for the inclusive nature of South Asian music, using his platform to promote unity and understanding.
With his upcoming pop album, he continues to push boundaries, combining English, Urdu and Punjabi lyrics with contemporary beats. For Sethi, music is not only entertainment, but a means of cultural exchange, a conduit for dialogue between different communities. As he prepares for the release of his new album, his message remains clear: “The power of music to bring people together is an old story. But what they’re drawn to, I hope, is a willingness to shape-shift.”
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