Music, magic

The daughter of eminent singer Mahmudunnabi, Fahmida Nabi was raised in a family of music enthusiasts and musicians, who gave her all the inspiration she needed to choose music as a career. One of the most popular singers of the country, Fahmida Nabi has received a national award as recognition of her work, while she is also involved in social work.
The Daily Star recently caught up with the artiste.
What is your opinion on the recent changes in the music scene?
Fahmida: Changes are preferred when the music is more melodious. Lyrics of songs are more life-centric at the moment. But everything should be refined and more honed. Only then will it survive the test of time.
Your father was a respected musician and his songs continue to be popular. Would you share any particular memory of your father?
Fahmida: My father used to tell me that music only takes a permanent form in the hands of those who understand it and those who remain humble. I follow these words by my father. I want my music to outlive me.
How busy is your schedule these days?
Fahmida: I'm currently busy with stage shows and working on my 12th album -- “Ami Palte Jaini”. The title song focuses on the idea that everyone changes, but I have remained the same. The lyrics go like this: “Dyakho palte gechhe ei shohorer chitro, palte gechho tumi, dekho palte gechhe rajar niti, shudhu paltate parini ami”. Words and tune of the song were composed by Russell. It's a brilliant romantic song, which I believe the listeners will like.
How many songs will the album include? Who are the lyricists and composers?
Fahmida: There will be 10 songs in the album. I'm targeting Eid as its release date. It's been a year since I did the album “Akash O Shomudro Aupar”. For my latest album, the lyricists are Kawsar Ahmed Chowdhury, Golam Morshed, Jahid Akbar, Zulfiqar Russell and Shahan Kobondho. The songs were composed by Russell, Tanvir Tarek and several others.
Will the new album have any of your own songs?
Fahmida: Yes. The titled of the song is “Amar Dukkho Shudhu Shekhanei”.
Which music trends bother you?
Fahmida: No one seems to really appreciate songs any more. They only say that the music is good, but make no comment about the words. This really hurts me. I believe that songs should be lyric-centric, not the other way around.
Any other ongoing project at the moment?
Fahmida: Live performances are keeping me busy. I'll travel to several European countries next month to give performances. Now I'm going to Scotland where a one-day music festival will feature artistes from many countries. It's an honour to be performing at such an important occasion. Apart from live shows, I also work to generate HIV/AIDS awareness.
You also released an album on Rabindra Sangeet?
Fahmida: I had to do some Rabindra Sangeet for TV plays. Following that, everyone encouraged me to bring out the album, which was received very positively.
You won a National Film Award for singing “Lukochuri Lukochuri” for the movie “Aha!”…
Fahmida: Yes. I became more responsible with my music after that. I'm more conscious in my attempts to make good music.