10 Iconic Pakistani Songs of the Decade
As the year is nearly drawing to a close, so is the decade. We know that 2010s were massive for the Pakistani music industry. From some major hits to everyone’s favourite Shaadi songs, it is safe to say that some songs were more memorable than others. So, to celebrate the whirlwind that this decade has been; Libas Now, has rounded up top 10 Pakistani songs from the decade.
– Alif Allah/Jugni (2010)
With over 55 million views on YouTube, the Coke Studio version by Meesha Shafi and Arif Lohar has won hearts. According to listeners, this Punjabi Sufi song is one of Meesha’s best work and we couldn’t agree more. Although people were familiar with the original track by Alam Lohar, the modern rendition of the song received massive applaud from the audience.
– Larho Mujhey (2012)
The song by Bilal Khan was initially released in 2012 and became a hit amongst the younger generation. However, it gained great popularity after its association with Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf’s movement for Naya Pakistan. Following Imran Khan’s win in 2018, Bilal took to social media and said, “The 22-year struggle of Imran Khan is embodied in every word of the song. I will always feel proud that “Larho Mujhey” became such an anthem for Imran Khan and his movement for Naya Pakistan.”
– Eye to Eye (2013)
With over 1.5 million views on YouTube, Taher Shah’s release went viral on the internet within hours after it came out in 2013. The song made Shah an overnight sensation, dressed in a white suit, matching shoes. From his blue eyes to luscious locks, it leaves you transfixed as he walks on to the screen blinking his eyes and swaying to the beat of the song. Almost 6 years in, you still have people making song references and sharing memes. Looks like, this one is here to stay.
– Chaap Tilak (2014)
The rendition of Amir Khusro’s renowned poem brought together two legends from the Pakistani music industry; Abida Parveen and Rahat Fateh Ali Khan. With over 25 million views on YouTube, Chaap Tilak has won hearts of many ever since. Bringing the Queen of Sufi to perform this was a good idea.
– Paar Chanaa De (2016)
With a soulful indie-rock feel, this number is Noori’s grand duet featuring Indian singer Shilpa Rao. The story narrates the tragic love story of Sohni Mahiwal, one that is popular in Punjabi folklore. The vocals encapsulate the listener earnestly. Just like the story itself, this song has stayed with many ever since its release.
– The Sibbi Song (2017)
Patari platform’s exclusive release has over 5.6million views on YouTube and was a game-changer in the music industry. Not only for everyone involved in the production but for the people as well as, it brought the rap genre to the limelight as it introduced Abid Brohi to the world. The rapper from Balochistan gained instant stardom following the release of the song.
– Khel Jamay Ga (2017)
Being Pakistanis, our love for cricket is inevitable as a nation. With that being when PSL Season 2 came home, we were nothing but ecstatic and this anthem by everyone’s favourite Ali Zafar stuck with everyone. PSL, despite being established as a brand is mostly associated with this particular anthem. We can’t disagree, it sure is a catchy one and makes you want to dance to the beat. Super excited to hear the next anthem.
– Shakar Wandan (2018)
This song was the ultimate wedding song (still is) for every wedding that took place after Ho Mann Jahan’s release. From Sheheryar Munawar’s dreamy appearance to Mahira Khan’s dance. The song had every to-be-weds person’s heart and no one, literally, no one, got the Shakar Wandan step right, except the HMJ team of course.
– Haye Dil Bechara (2019)
This song is the ultimate feel-good song of the season, channeling high energy, fun lyrics and a hummable melody. This is possibly an anthem for every person who is afraid of falling in love, but can’t help the “bechara dil”. The video has over 6 million views on YouTube since July 2019 and it is safe to say that once you listen to it, you won’t stop singing it.
– Hum Nadaan (2019)
A band from this decade that rose to fame following their win at Pepsi Battle of the Bands Season 3 have made it to our list with Hum Nadaan. Since they want to leave a mark by creating meaningful music, they are living up to that. The song holds a deep message for everyone – to live peacefully, stuck with us. The video beautifully translates the songs visually for the viewers. It has garnered over 367K views on YouTube after its release in February. We hope Bayaan’s message for peace is spread worldwide
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