Shafin Ahmed: The Flag bearer of rock music in the Bengali music industry

'Peye haranor bedonay, purey cholechi sharakhon, keno tumi miche mayay, bedhe chile amaay tokhon?'

You also hum Phiriye Dao by Shafin Ahmed while reading the first verses, right?  Phiriye Dao, the anthem for Heartbroken, was launched in the market by Shafin Ahmed and his band Miles in 1993. 

Shafin Ahmed was more than just a musician; he was the flagbearer of the Bangladeshi Rock music industry. He and his band, Miles, introduce a fresher and more contemporary sound to Bangladesh's music scenario. They dropped back-to-back bangers with a perfect mix of Western rock music and indigenous musical instruments that vibe with a broader audience. And the songs still are bangers, undoubtedly. Even after 40 years of releasing these songs, they are enough to make any GenZ or Alpha vibe.

This fusion of Western rock and indigenous musical elements in the 1980s expanded the horizons of the Bangladeshi music industry and established a new benchmark for the upcoming generation of artists. His influence on the rock music genre is so profound that this landscape would have been unimaginable without him.

It is not that Bengali music was less affluent before Miles, but it was somehow dominated by or, say, confined to traditional and folk forms. Some rock music existed but was primarily influenced by Western sound, and there was no fusion or Bengali touch. But the late Shafin Ahmed and his team, Miles, changed that scenario. 

The Late Shafin Ahmed was born on 14 February 1961 in Kolkata. He was the son of legendary artists Kamal Dasgupta and Feroza Begum, making him rich in musical instruments and tradition. 

Formed in the late 70s, Miles, with Shafin Ahmed as its linchpin, injected new life into the local music scene. Their first album struck a chord with a generation hungry for music that echoed their voice, language, and aspirations.

The fusion of Western and Bengali music had a refreshing sound, and Shafin's ability to blend powerful guitar riffs with heart-touching lyrics was a game-changer. His voice was the cherry on top, a combination that was indeed a chef's kiss. 

Shafin Ahmed's contributions extended beyond launching music albums. His emphasis on live performances was a signature attribute. The band's energetic shows and Shafin Ahmed's jaw-dropping stage presence elevated the live music culture in Bangladesh to a whole new level. This legacy continues to inspire upcoming musicians and concert organizers. 

Seems like Shafin Ahmed made sure there is a song for every emotion you feel. His songs are like anthems for different life stages, too.

For those experiencing recent heartbreaks, 'Phiriye Dao' should be on a loop. The solace, soulful voice, and hatred infused in that song touch the deeper part of that pain, providing support for the time of heartbreak and moving forward to 'Neela', a song dedicated to his lover, inviting her to wander in some place of peace and tranquillity. Neel or blue symbolizes their love and how he longs to be with his lover in a peaceful blue haven (sky). He will do anything to be close to his loved one, illustrating how a man in love can go to any extent to make her happy, to be with her amidst life's storms.

And Let's be honest. Can any birthday celebrations be complete without 'Aj Jonmodin Tomar?' Songs like 'Chand Tara Surjo Noy Tumi', 'Jala Jala', or 'Pahari Meye' aren't just melodies; these are the encapsulated anthems of youths, the voice of youth, their rebellion.

Not just confined to Miles, Shafin Ahmed also had solo albums such as 'Tomakey' or 'Pagla Ghonti' that resonated with audiences. Though infused with rock music, his songs align with listeners of all levels of thought process. 

As time passes, we grow up, and childhood heroes or superstars also age. On Thursday, Shafin Ahmed bid his final bye by emptying thousands of hearts.

On this eve of the national crisis, let's pay tribute to the ultimate icon, the voice of youth, and the flagbearer of rock music in the Bengali music industry. You will be missed, Shafin Ahmed. Thank you for all the honey-to-ear melodies. 

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