Coke Studio Live: A Journey Through Pakistani Soundscapes With Chand Tara!

Chand Tara, Pakistan’s darling vocalist with a voice smoother than honey on roti and stage presence brighter than the Lahore sun at noon, just set Helsinki alight with her electrifying performance at Coke Studio Live.

For those unfamiliar with Chand Tara’s ethereal sounds, imagine a blend of Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan’s raw power, Abida Parveen’s soulful depth, and a touch of modern pop sensibility - all packaged in a mesmerizing package adorned with shimmering shalwar kameez. She isn’t just a singer; she’s an experience.

The anticipation leading up to Coke Studio Live was palpable. Helsinki’s Pakistani community buzzed with excitement, sharing WhatsApp voice messages about Chand Tara’s setlist, speculating on which Coke Studio classics she would perform, and wondering if she’d bring out any surprise collaborations. Even those unfamiliar with Pakistani music found themselves swept away by the infectious energy emanating from the pre-show gatherings at the Esplanadi Park.

Chand Tara took the stage at 8 pm sharp, greeted by thunderous applause that reverberated through the packed Finlandia Hall. Dressed in a vibrant emerald green shalwar kameez embroidered with intricate gold thread, she looked every bit the regal songstress.

The performance kicked off with an acoustic rendition of “Afreen Afreen,” Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan’s iconic qawwali. Chand Tara’s voice soared effortlessly through the hall, her passionate delivery tugging at heartstrings and leaving the audience spellbound. The musicians accompanying her - a talented ensemble of sitarists, tabla players, and dhol drummers - provided a sonic tapestry that perfectly complemented her vocals.

As the night progressed, Chand Tara took the audience on a captivating musical journey through diverse genres. From the haunting melody of “Tere Bina” to the upbeat rhythm of “Mora Saain,” she showcased her versatility and vocal prowess with remarkable ease.

A highlight of the performance was undoubtedly Chand Tara’s rendition of “Pasoori.” The song, originally a Coke Studio collaboration between Ali Sethi and Shae Gill, became a global sensation last year, captivating audiences with its catchy melody and poignant lyrics.

Chand Tara’s interpretation breathed new life into the beloved track, her voice conveying the bittersweet longing of lost love with heartbreaking authenticity. The audience sang along, swaying to the rhythm and losing themselves in the music’s emotive power.

Chand Tara also shared anecdotes about her musical journey, revealing glimpses into her creative process and inspirations.

She spoke about her early days singing at local festivals in Lahore, her passion for incorporating traditional Sufi poetry into her music, and her dream of bridging cultural divides through the universal language of song.

The audience hung on to her every word, captivated by her genuine warmth and infectious enthusiasm.

Chand Tara’s performance wasn’t just a concert; it was a cultural exchange. Through her music, she introduced Helsinki to the rich tapestry of Pakistani sounds, celebrating its diverse musical heritage and showcasing the power of music to transcend boundaries.

The encore saw Chand Tara perform a medley of popular Bollywood songs, sending the audience into a frenzy of dancing and singing along. As the final notes faded, leaving a sense of joyful melancholy in their wake, it was clear that Helsinki had witnessed something truly special.

Chand Tara’s performance at Coke Studio Live wasn’t just an event; it was a testament to the power of music to unite cultures, bridge divides, and create unforgettable experiences. Her voice continues to resonate long after the final encore, a reminder that music truly is the language of the soul.