Shahbaz Fayyaz Qawwal is a prominent and rising figure in the world of qawwali, a traditional form of Sufi devotional music deeply rooted in the spiritual and mystical practices. As part of the younger generation of qawwals, Shahbaz Fayyaz has garnered widespread attention for his dynamic performances, exceptional vocal abilities, and dedication to preserving the rich legacy of qawwali while also introducing it to new audiences.
Background and Family Legacy
Shahbaz Fayyaz Qawwal are the first qawwals in their family, Shahbaz and his brother Fayyaz have grown up surrounded by the rhythms, melodies, and spiritual significance of qawwali.
Together, they form the Shahbaz Fayyaz Qawwal Group, a dynamic ensemble that has taken qawwali to new heights, performing both traditional and contemporary pieces, while maintaining a deep respect for the historical and spiritual elements of the genre.
Musical Style and Performance
Shahbaz Fayyaz Qawwal is known for his powerful vocals, masterful control over ragas (melodic frameworks in classical music), and the ability to captivate audiences with his emotive delivery. His performances often invoke a deep spiritual response in listeners, staying true to the purpose of qawwali, which is to connect the audience with the divine and foster an atmosphere of spiritual ecstasy.
The Shahbaz Fayyaz Qawwal Group combines traditional qawwali instruments such as the harmonium, tabla, and dholak with rhythmic clapping and vocal harmonies. This creates a mesmerizing soundscape that allows for both spiritual reflection and emotional release. The group’s ability to balance the traditional structure of qawwali with modern improvisations and energetic performances has made them popular among both purists and new listeners.
Repertoire and Influence
Shahbaz Fayyaz Qawwal’s repertoire includes a vast range of classical qawwalis, ghazals, naats (poetry in praise of the Prophet Muhammad), and Sufi kalam (Sufi poetry). They
In addition to performing traditional pieces, the group is known for their piece ‘Bol Kaffara’ which has received millions of views on social media and is performed in most gatherings.
Cultural and International Reach
Shahbaz Fayyaz Qawwal is celebrated not only in Pakistan but also on the international stage. Their energetic performances have earned them invitations to perform at cultural festivals, religious gatherings, and concerts across the world, including in countries like the United Kingdom and Europe.
Social Media and Popularity
In addition to traditional concerts and festivals, Shahbaz Fayyaz Qawwal has embraced digital platforms, which has significantly expanded their reach. Social media platforms like YouTube and Facebook have played a major role in the group’s rise to prominence. Their online performances and music videos have gone viral, attracting millions of viewers and helping to popularize qawwali among younger, tech-savvy audiences.
