.jpg)
Get Ready! An army of music has loaded its guns to blast Lahore with music preaching freedom, writes Marian Sharaf.
For the past many years, music has played a vital role in initiating peace movements and bringing revolution; be it WWII or the Vietnam War – Flower Power being the biggest and most affective of all. No wonder someone once said, “The guitar is mightier than the sword.” Unfortunately, our country, which was born amidst political chaos of the Indian British Raj, is yet gliding in doldrums. There have always been artistes struggling for recognition, writers pleading for freedom of expression and politicians proving their loyalty in vain. Nonetheless, the entertainment industry has survived, positively making an impression every now and then. Yet, there is a lot to do; a lot more to talk about.
Our hills haven’t been alive with the sound of music; it’s always been the beat of marching feet and a sound of distant guns. Organizing gigs on Independence Day isn’t enough. The nation needs to come closer in a vibrant style; heart to heart – soul to soul.
Well, 2009 won’t be just 2009 anymore because Aag Tv and Fire Records have taken the initiative to launch the biggest music event in the history of Pakistan; it’s called AAG ALIVE – Duniya Dhekey Gee [The World Will See]. Our army of musicians have loaded their guns and are all geared up to blast the city with non-stop music for a straight 12 hours, broadcast in 5 countries – across 3 continents. Yes, for the first time Pakistan will witness, enjoy and celebrate music, as it happened in Woodstock and Live Aid. AAG Alive aims to put various genres of music together with the message of peace and solidarity. The two day journey will include 12 bands, solo artists, Live Acts and DJs, including, the legendry Ali Azmat, Atif Aslam, Noori, Strings, Fuzon, Rozan, Aaro, Hadiqa Kiyani, Javed Noman, Rahim Shah and Shiraz Uppal to name a few.
As stated by AAG Alive team, “From absolute to extreme, the mammoth event is a unique two day marathon, in the field of 15 thousand as an audience. Participation of over 22 music heavy weights and an atmosphere will rival some of the biggest events in the world.” Freedom of expression and celebrating music is what AAG ALIVE will be all about. Participants may camp the night before the bugle plays. There will be jam sessions, bonfires, dance floors and most importantly, FREEDOM!
The event that will mark 25th October, 2009 as a day for solidarity through music, and will show the world that no force can kill the patriotism of Pakistanis. Ali Azmat, who spoke at the AAG ALIVE press conference held at Avari Hotel Lahore said, “I don’t remember anything like this happening in history before. Since the earthquake in 2005 that happened on the same date as this, we have been drowning in one problem after another. We have more in life to think of; more than inflation or the social depression we are trying to survive. It’s time to show that no one can defeat us, no one can scare us. We have to bring ourselves back to life. AAG ALIVE with help us stay alive.”
Music in Pakistan has made a positive impression the world over. It has surely come through hard times, and is continuing its struggle despite security issues. Salute to our musicians, who will gather on the battle field, to show what music in Pakistan can do. It’s amazing how people are responding to this event. It’s not only the youth but the older generations too that are enthused to celebrate something different, something good. Aag TV and Fire Records; AAG ALIVE – Zindabad.
