Concert Review: Attaullah Khan Esakhelvi at Mayfair Venue, Romford, London (September 21, 2024)

The eagerly awaited concert of Attaullah Khan Esakhelvi on the evening of September 21, 2024, at the Mayfair Venue in Romford, London, was an exceptional night that left an indelible mark on all who attended. Though the event had a slightly rocky start, beginning at 8:30 PM instead of the advertised 7 PM, this delay did little to dampen the spirits of the audience, who had come in droves to witness the magic of two distinct generations of Pakistani music—both embodied by the legend himself and the talented rising star, Nimra Mehra.

 

 

The night kicked off with an opening set by Nimra Mehra, a vocalist whose reputation has been rapidly growing in the South Asian music scene. Nimra performed an impressive selection of covers, starting with Sano Nehr Walay Pul, originally by Noor Jahan. The depth and richness of her voice were immediately evident, and she handled the classic song with a modern yet respectful interpretation. Her next performance of Ghar Aja Sohniya, a song immortalized by Shazia Manzoor, cemented her versatility and her ability to evoke powerful emotions. Each note was delivered with control and clarity, revealing her natural gift for high-pitched tones.

 

 

However, it was her original track, Je Pata Hunda, that truly stole the show. As she belted out the powerful lyrics, the audience found themselves in awe of her vocal dexterity and the raw emotion she poured into the performance. Her control over her upper register, combined with a strong, dynamic range, created a breathtaking musical experience. This performance alone showed why Nimra is quickly gaining recognition as one of the best emerging vocalists of her generation. The slight echo in the sound system, a recurring issue at Mayfair Venue, was hardly noticeable in the face of such a commanding performance.

After a powerful 10-song set by Nimra, anticipation filled the room as the main event of the evening approached. The iconic Attaullah Khan Esakhelvi, a legend whose songs have transcended time and generations, took to the stage. Now 73 years old, Attaullah required some physical support to walk, but the moment he started singing, it was as if time had reversed itself. As expected his received a warm welcome and standing ovation from the large crowd, who had travelled distances to watch him him. His voice, still rich and expressive, filled the hall and immediately transported the audience to a realm of nostalgia and emotion.

 

 

 

 

The maestro began his set with a beautiful Naat Sharif, Shah-e-Medina, which brought a sense of spiritual serenity to the crowd. This humble opening was followed by a series of his classic hits, starting with Balo Batiaan, a song that speaks to the simple yet profound experiences of love and longing. The transition to Chan Kithan Guzari, a heart-wrenching song of separation, reminded the audience why Attaullah’s music has resonated so deeply over the decades. His voice, still echoing the same emotional depth it had in his youth, connected directly with the audience, invoking a collective sense of nostalgia.

 

 

When Attaullah performed Kamiz Tere Kaali, the crowd responded with enthusiastic cheers. This particular song, with its timeless lyrics and unique folk rhythm, showcased his ability to blend traditional Seraiki music with modern sensibilities. Despite his age, Attaullah’s vocal range remained surprisingly youthful, and his powerful delivery demonstrated why he continues to hold the title of the king of Seraiki music. His control over pitch and his emotive phrasing transported the audience through the corridors of time, as each song struck a chord deep within their hearts.

 

 

 

Unfortunately, the evening wasn’t without its disturbances. A group of unruly attendees attempted to disrupt the peaceful atmosphere by causing a scene midway through the concert. However, the event’s security team acted swiftly, managing the situation before it could escalate further. After a brief pause, the concert resumed, and the disruption was soon forgotten as Attaullah returned to the stage to continue his musical journey.

Beyond the music, the ambiance of the event was electrifying. Despite the minor technical glitches with the sound system, the performers’ voices soared, and the energy in the venue was palpable. Attaullah’s presence on stage, his deep connection to his audience, and his ability to command attention with every note he sang were testament to his enduring legacy. The love and respect the crowd showed him, singing along to his classics and responding to every inflection in his voice, was a reminder of the profound impact his music has had on fans across the globe.

 

 

Nimra Mehra’s presence as the opening act added a new layer of freshness to the night, setting the stage for an unforgettable experience. Her modern vocal style, combined with her respect for classic South Asian songs, made for a perfect complement to Attaullah Khan’s traditional folk style. The balance between the two generations of artists highlighted the timelessness of Pakistani music, showing how it continues to evolve while maintaining its emotional core.

As the night drew to a close, there was a sense of awe and gratitude that lingered in the air. Attaullah Khan Esakhelvi’s performance was a masterclass in endurance and passion, a reminder of why his music remains beloved after decades of fame. At 73, he still has the ability to captivate audiences in a way few artists can, and this concert was a testament to his legendary status.

In the end, the concert at Mayfair Venue was not just a musical event but a deeply emotional journey. It showcased the incredible talent of Nimra Mehra, the rising star, and reaffirmed the eternal brilliance of Attaullah Khan Esakhelvi. For the attendees, it was a night filled with soul-stirring melodies, heartfelt lyrics, and a celebration of the rich cultural heritage of Seraiki music. Truly, it was an evening that will be remembered for years to come, as a fitting tribute to a musical legend and an exciting preview of the future of Pakistani music.