Unheard Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan Album “Chain of Light” to Be Released After 34 Years

Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan, a name synonymous with the soulful depths of Sufi music, has once again graced us with his ethereal voice. This time, it's through a newly discovered album, "Chain of Light," set to release on September 20. This album, containing unheard recordings from 34 years ago, promises to be a treasure trove for fans and new listeners alike. Let’s dive into the story behind this remarkable release and what makes Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan an enduring global icon.

Discovery of the Album

The “lost album” named Chain of Light was found in the archives of Peter Gabriel’s Real World Records. This discovery is not just a significant musical find but a cultural revelation, showcasing recordings that capture Nusrat at the peak of his vocal prowess. Real World Records, the label that signed Khan in 1989, stumbled upon these recordings while relocating their archives in 2021.

About Chain of Light

Chain of Light comprises four traditional qawwals, including one that has never been heard before. These tracks are performed by Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan and his eight-strong party of singers and musicians. The album showcases the depth and range of Khan's voice, presenting these qawwals in pristine sonic quality.

Recording History

The recordings were made at Real World Studios in April 1990. This was around the same time Nusrat worked on his groundbreaking album Mustt Mustt with Canadian producer Michael Brook. The sessions for Chain of Light thus capture a pivotal moment in Khan's career, where he was experimenting and pushing the boundaries of traditional qawwali music.

Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan hailed from a 600-year-old lineage of qawwali singers. He took over his family's musical group in 1971 and has since been the torchbearer of Sufi devotional music. His ability to convey profound spiritual messages through his powerful voice has made him a cultural icon, bridging the gap between Eastern and Western musical traditions.

Nusrat’s Vocal Mastery

Khan’s voice was both a force of nature and a precise instrument. It could be heavy and powerful or agile and intricate, embodying the very essence of Sufi singing. His ability to evoke deep emotions and transcend language barriers made his music universally appealing.

Nusrat's influence extended far beyond the Islamic world. Western musicians like Jeff Buckley, The Rolling Stones, Madonna, Michael Jackson, and Eddie Vedder counted themselves among his admirers. His collaborations and contributions to the soundtracks of films by directors like Martin Scorsese and Oliver Stone further cemented his global legacy.

Relationship with Peter Gabriel

Nusrat’s journey into the global music scene was significantly boosted by his collaboration with Peter Gabriel. Their relationship began after Nusrat’s performance at the 1985 WOMAD festival, leading to his signing with Real World Records. This partnership helped bring Nusrat’s music to a wider audience, starting with their work on Gabriel’s 1989 album Passion.

Rediscovery of the Tapes

The Chain of Light recordings were unearthed during an archival relocation at Real World Studios in 2021. Michael Brook, who worked with Nusrat during these sessions, highlighted the clarity and harmonic adventure in these performances. This rediscovery is a testament to the timeless quality of Nusrat’s music.

What makes Chain of Light particularly special is the state of Nusrat's voice and the experimental nature of the recordings. The album captures him at a creative peak, exploring new musical territories while staying true to the qawwali tradition. Critics and fans alike are eagerly anticipating its release, expecting it to be a significant addition to Nusrat’s discography.

Upcoming Documentary

Adding to the excitement, a definitive documentary on Khan’s life, titled Ustad, is set to be released by Saiyna Bashir Studios in late 2025. This biopic, supported by the British Council, will offer an in-depth look into Nusrat’s life, featuring rare footage and insights from close family, friends, and collaborators.

Even decades after his passing in 1997, Nusrat’s legacy continues to thrive. With an average of six million monthly listeners on Spotify and his YouTube videos garnering over a billion views, his music remains as influential as ever. His ability to connect with listeners across generations speaks to the timeless nature of his art.

Tracklist of Chain of Light

The album features four tracks, each steeped in cultural and historical significance:

1. ‘Ya Allah Ya Rehman’ - A beloved qawwal performed in Urdu.
2. ‘Aaj Sik Mitran Di’ - Written by Sufi saint Peer Meher Ali Shah, performed in Punjabi.
3. ‘Ya Gaus Ya Meeran’ - Authored by Nasir Udin Nasir, in Urdu.
4. ‘Khabram Raseed Imshab’ - From Nusrat’s family repertoire, in Persian.