The Best 20 Qawwali Albums of all times that you must listen in 2023

 

Top 20 Greatest Qawwali Albums of All Time – A Journey through Soul-Stirring Melodies

Qawwali, the mystical and devotional genre of music, has captivated audiences for centuries with its soulful melodies and heartfelt lyrics. From the enchanting vocals to the rhythmic beats of the tabla and harmonium, qawwali has the power to transport listeners to a higher realm of spirituality.

In this article, we will explore the top 20 greatest qawwali albums of all time, featuring the best-selling albums by legendary artists such as Abida Parveen, Aslam Sabri Qawwal, Badar Miandad Qawwal, Aziz Mian Qawwal, Asif Ali Santoo, Rahat Fateh Ali Khan, Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan, Zila Khan, Wadali Brothers, Warsi Brothers, and Sabri Brothers Qawwal.

 

 

1. Abida Parveen: Album: “Raqs-e-Bismil”

Known for her mesmerizing vocals and poetic renditions, Abida Parveen’s “Raqs-e-Bismil” is a masterpiece that showcases the depths of Sufi poetry and divine love. Abida Parveen has been singing since her teenage years however this album established her as the Sufi Queen, alongside masters such as Nusrat Fateh Ali and Sabri Brothers. It had tracks such as Ji Chahe to Sheesha Banja (Tau Sheesha Banja), Yaar Ko Hamne Ja Ba Ja Dekha, and Zahid Ne Mera Hasil-e-Imaan. 

 

2. Aslam Sabri Qawwal: Album: “Bhar Do Jholi Meri Ya Muhammad”

Aslam Sabri Qawwal’s album Mohammed Ke Shaher Mein is a soul-stirring collection of qawwalis that resonates with the listeners’ hearts and invokes a sense of devotion. Aslam Sabri lives in India and has a chistiya rung in his soul-touching Qawwalis.

 

 

3. Badar Miandad Qawwal: Album: “Sufi Qawwalis”

Badar Miandad Qawwal’s “Sufi Qawwalis” album is a treasure trove of traditional qawwali compositions that capture the essence of spirituality and religious fervor.

 

 

4. Aziz Mian Qawwal: Album: “Main Sharabi”

Aziz Mian Qawwal’s iconic album “Main Sharabi” became a sensation with its powerful and expressive qawwali performances, highlighting the struggles and spiritual journey of a devotee. It was a different album, unapologetic and quirky and remains so.

 

 

 

 

 

5. Asif Ali Santoo: Dile-e-Umeed

Asif Ali Santoo’s “Dile-e-Umeed” album is a delightful blend of traditional qawwali with contemporary influences, featuring heartwarming compositions that touch the soul.

 

 

 

 

6. Rahat Fateh Ali Khan: Album: “Rahat”

Rahat Fateh Ali Khan, the torchbearer of the qawwali tradition, mesmerizes listeners with his album “Rahat,” showcasing his versatile vocals and emotionally charged performances.

 

 

 

7. Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan: Album: “Mast Mast”

Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan, the legendary qawwali maestro, created a magnum opus with his album Mast Mast,  showcasing his unparalleled vocal prowess and spiritual intensity. Featuring the popular track “Mustt Mustt” this album showcases Khan’s captivating rendition of a song dedicated to the Sufi philosopher Lal Shahbaz Qalandar.

 

8. Zila Khan: Album: “Yaar Ko Hamne Ja Ba Ja Dekha”

Zila Khan’s album “Yaar Ko Hamne Ja Ba Ja Dekha” is a fusion of classical and qawwali elements, highlighting her melodious voice and unique interpretation of Sufi poetry.

 

 

 

9. Wadali Brothers: Album: “Tu Maane Ya Na Maane”

The Wadali Brothers’ album “Tu Maane Ya Na Maane” is a delightful collection of traditional qawwali compositions that showcase their harmonious voices and deep-rooted musical heritage.

 

 

 

10. Warsi Brothers: Album: “Ae Ri Sakhi”

The Warsi Brothers’ album “Ae Ri Sakhi” is a testament to their impeccable artistry and devotion, with soulful qawwalis that transport listeners to a realm of divine love and spirituality.

 

11. Sabri Brothers Qawwal: Album: “Taajdar-e-Haram”

Sabri Brothers Qawwal’s album “Tajdar-e-Haram” is an unforgettable masterpiece, featuring their powerful vocals and extraordinary harmonies that have touched millions of hearts.

 

 

 

 

12. Faiz Ali Faiz: Album: “Your Love Makes Me Dance” – Kalam of Bulleh Shah

Teray Ishq Nachaya is Bulleh Shah’s most famous Kalam, which has been sung by many legends. Faiz Ali Faiz, although not the famous of Qawwals, has released few great albums. Teray Ishq Nachaya is a good album which adheres to Qawwals in its classic form. figure in Pakistani qawwali music

 

 

13. Savere Savere by Amjad Sabri

Amjad Sabri was the true successor of Sabri Brothers, who carried the Qawwali style of Sabri Brothers in an elegant way. Savere Savere is a Sabri Brothers signature song, which Amjad Sabri has performed in an amazing style.

 

14. Abida Parveen: Album: “Aray Logo Tumhara Kya”

With tracks such as Mujhko Bata Ae Qaziya, Chalo Ri Saiyan Charcha, and of course the wonder track ‘Are Logo Tumhara Kya‘, this album touched the heart of millions of Sufi music listeners. It also was a change from Abida Parveen’s previous album as it has more ghazal influences that before.

 

 

 

 

15. Temple Of Sound by Rizwan-Muazzam Qawwali 
Immerse yourself in the captivating qawwali performances by Rizwan-Muazzam as they breathe new life into the works of Rumi, Baba Bulleh Shah, and Amir Khusrau. This album showcases their exceptional musicality and powerful sound.

 

These top 20 greatest qawwali albums of all time, featuring renowned artists like Abida Parveen, Aslam Sabri Qawwal, Badar Miandad Qawwal, Aziz Mian Qawwal, Asif Ali Santoo, Rahat Fateh Ali Khan, Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan, Zila Khan, Wadali Brothers, Warsi Brothers, and Sabri Brothers Qawwal, showcase the richness and spiritual essence of qawwali music. Each album has its own unique charm, evoking emotions of devotion, love, and transcendence. Whether you are a fan of traditional qawwali or enjoy contemporary fusions, these albums offer an incredible journey through the world of qawwali, leaving a lasting impact on listeners for generations to come.