Stay honest and believe in your dreams, says Umair Jaswal

By Sadaf Fayyaz Jul 16th, 2012 ( No Comment )

He is vocalist of famous band Qayaas. In 2012 Umair was awarded Best Rock Vocalist in South Asia at IndieGo and Bronze Medal of Honor for Best Rock Vocalist at BMM Global Awards. Umair is the Front Man for the Band Qayaas, who have won numerous awards and acclaim including 2010 Jack Daniel’s Rock Band of the Year, 2012 Best Rock Band in South Asia at Indiego and 2012 Best Indie Global Band at BMM to name just a few. He has simply rocked with his song “Charkha Nolakha” in this season of Coke Studio. While talking to The News Tribe, he spoke about himself and his band.

TNT: Why did you come up with this name Qayaas? Is there any reason for this band name?

Umair: At the time we named our band QAYAAS it made perfect sense to all of us, as the name means deliberation. Qayaas in Urdu means deliberation but it simply encapsulates the whole existing philosophy behind our form of music. There are five different members or people in the band with five different moods and five different sensations. In all, Qayaas comprises different musicians with highly creative minds and energies.

TNT: What message does your music mainly reflect?

Umair: There is only one message behind our music and that is to speak up what you feel. We are proud of our music. Our music explores specific sensitive moments, events, relationships that happen around us and leave an impact on our hearts. Each of our melody encompasses a different journey and a different sensation. All of our compositions reflect true spirit and energy of our band. Our philosophy is that music can be used as a motivation for the backing of a common cause. Our songs like “Umeed” (Hope), “Tanha” (Alone) and “Inqilab” (Revolution) are true examples and reflections of our music philosophy. We believe that music isn’t limited but it can go a very long way to heal a nation.

TNT: If given a chance, you would like to perform with whom and why?

Umair: We would love to perform with Madam Abida Parveen, the living legend

TNT: How do you define good music?

Umair: Good music is anything that sounds good to the ear.

TNT: What is success for a musician according to you in terms of money or fame?

Umair: It is being able to express and to support your own self through music to make more music is the ultimate success.

TNT: In such a competitive music environment, what acts as your niche? How do you maintain yourself?

Umair: It’s our originality.

TNT: What are three things that you dislike and three things that you like about music industry?

Umair: Three things that I hate are there is no music industry. Big Corporate make stars. Formula music dominates throughout the masses. Things I like none, because the industry doesn’t exist.

TNT: Say a few lines on future of music in Pakistan.

Umair: Certain platforms in the country are supporting experimental music which is a great thing. I hope different genres get a chance to share their sound with us. If that happens it would be great for everyone.

TNT: What would you suggest to infant musicians? Music shall be taken as a hobby or as a career?

Umair: It should be taken very seriously.

TNT: What is your message to readers?

Umair: Stay honest and keep believing in your dreams.