The Dewarists is a unique music documentary-travelogue format. Having won the Cannes Lions award, the show brings together a formidable set of musicians from diverse music backgrounds to collaborate together while exploring beautiful destinations across the country.
By the end of their journey, the artistes would have composed a brand new song that will include their combined musical backgrounds and influences, as well as reflect the sounds and culture of the place to which they travel.
Scripting another memorable chapter, the Dewarists, which is in its second season, continues to unite artistes from India, Pakistan and beyond, on the same musical page.
The first episode that will be aired on October 28 on Star World, will witness acclaimed Pakistani singer Shafqat Amanat Ali collaborating with ace musicians Salim-Sulaiman and Fink from the United Kingdom.
Terming it as “an absolutely lovely experience”, Shafqat shares his views about the show, “Salim-Sulaiman are hugely talented. Since we have worked together in Bollywood projects, the rapport already existed. Fink’s inclusion brought along a new dimension to the energy. I think the show walks on a beautiful concept of artistic collaboration.” Providing an insight on their musical amalgamation, the famed vocalist says, “From the onset, our ideas gelled naturally. We emerged as a single musical unit, yet making room for the creative individuality of all the four musicians. I will term it as a fusion of three different flavours. Perhaps, it is not restricted to music only. Languages, cultures and music sensibilities also came along the way.” About the song, the artiste says that though it is not a traditional Sufi Kalam, its meaning and essence tilts towards that mood. “It draws from Sufi thoughts, but crosses over to a more popular feel with Salim-Sulaiman bringing their Urdu bit to my Punjabi lyrics, and of course with Fink’s skill coming to play, our effort simply got better. The end result is a track, which is soulful, yet high on melody and energy and has a lot of fun elements in it. It was five days of sheer musical dedication and passion. I loved how the track finally shaped up from nothing. And now the reaction of audience is awaited,” he says. In the introductory season, singing duo Zeb and Hania has preceded Shafqat from the other side of the border. The singer is visibly excited to take the alliance forward. “I did see a few episodes last year and absolutely loved the idea. The production value is impressive and it is quite evident, some in-depth research has gone into the show. The concept of bringing travel and music together is worth appreciating because travelling and exploring different cultures is an incredible part of every musician’s journey. I particularly remember the episode of Vishal-Shekhar in Jaipur, where they gave a platform to local musicians. That just enhanced the flavour of the music and took it to another level,” he says, adding, “On a personal level too, the places I visited and the exchange of ideas that took place, have played a significant role in shaping my music.”
The man behind some of the most soulful numbers in recent times, (Ye Hosla from Dor and Mitwa from Kabhi Alvida Na Kehna to name a few) humbly states, “I am always flattered when people say my music is soulful, because at the end of the day, no matter what we produce it should be soul stirring. That’s what I keep in mind, while creating my music.”