Spotify In Pakistan: Punjabi Music Witnesses Tremendous Universal Appeal

News Desk

Karachi: Based on Spotify’s data, Punjabi music has experienced a tremendous increase in production and popularity in 2023. In comparison to 2021, the number of released Punjabi tracks has more than doubled, showcasing the industry’s vibrant growth and creative evolution.

Punjabi pop, with its catchy tunes, has witnessed a remarkable 99 per cent year-on-year increase in listener consumption. Meanwhile, Punjabi hip-hop has seen an astounding 106 per cent growth in its listenership. This surge in popularity reflects the genre’s universal appeal, transcending borders and cultures.

The younger generation, in particular, has been drawn to the traditional and modern blend of instruments in Punjabi tracks, resulting in an impressive surge in both the number of releases and listener consumption.

More and more artists are experimenting with Punjabi and the popularity of Punjabi music is skyrocketing, remarked Spotify Senior Editor for Bangladesh, Sri Lanka and Pakistan Rutaba Yaqub.

We are optimistic that Punjabi music will continue to grow in popularity because Spotify is at the forefront of exposing and promoting this genre. Some of the most popular Punjabi songs in Pakistan right now are included in our Spotify playlist called ‘Punjabi Sauce’, Rutaba added.

One iconic Punjabi track that continues to reign supreme is ‘Pasoori’ by Ali Sethi and Shae Gill. This enchanting track has captured the hearts of music lovers worldwide and remains one of the most streamed songs globally.

For the musical trends of 2023, the top five tracks in terms of streams include ‘Beqadra’ by Nehaal Naseem, Spotify’s Fresh Finds artist, ‘4U’ by Maanu, Spotify’s RADAR artist, ‘Mangan Aiyaan’ by Atif Aslam, ‘Lagda Nahi’ by Toshi and Ammy Gill, and ‘Bin Maahi’ by the legendary Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan.

Punjabi music’s influence extends far beyond Pakistan’s borders, reaching top markets in India, Canada, the US and the UK.

Spotify data has further highlighted that some of the top Punjabi language tracks by Pakistani artists include ‘Dil Diyan Gallan’ by the effervescent Atif Aslam, ‘Baari’ by Bilal Saeed and Momina Mustehsan, ‘Samjhawan-Lofi Flip’ by Jawad Ahmad, ‘Khuda Aur Mohabbat (Original Score)’ by Rahat Fateh Ali Khan, and ‘Tu Jhoom’ by Naseebo Lal and Abida Parveen.

With its rich diversity, captivating melodies and percussive vocals, Punjabi music has found a special place in the hearts of Pakistani listeners. Punjabi music is here to stay, uniting music enthusiasts across the globe in a harmonious celebration of culture and art.