With Punjabi music seeing unparalleled popularity on Spotify, Pakistan’s music sector has seen a tremendous transition in recent years. The blending of traditional and modern instruments in Punjabi tracks has particularly captured the attention of the younger generation, which has significantly increased both the number of releases and audience interaction.
The year 2023 has seen a spectacular increase in the creation and appreciation of Punjabi music, according Spotify data. The overall number of Punjabi track releases has more than doubled since 2021, demonstrating the industry’s thriving development and artistic progress.
Punjabi music, which is renowned for its infectious songs, has seen an incredible 99% rise in listener interaction since last year. Additionally, the number of people listening to Punjabi Hip Hop has increased by an astonishing 106%. This rise in popularity demonstrates the genre’s all-encompassing appeal, which cuts beyond boundaries and cultures.
The classic Punjabi song “Pasoori” by Ali Sethi and Shae Gill is one that has dominated the charts for years. One of the most streamed songs on the planet, this beautiful composition has won the hearts of music lovers everywhere.
“Punjabi music is evolving into a global phenomenon, and Pakistan is feeling the effects as well. According to Rutaba Yaqub, Senior Editor for Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh at Spotify, “more and more musicians are experimenting with Punjabi music, and the consumption of Punjabi tracks is booming. “Spotify is leading the charge in promoting and displaying Punjabi music, and we are optimistic about the future of this genre. Some of the most popular Punjabi songs in Pakistan right now are featured on our Spotify playlist called “Punjabi Sauce.”
Punjabi music resonates with major markets in India, Canada, the US, and the UK, far beyond Pakistan’s borders. The evergreen “Pasoori” by Ali Sethi and Shae Gill, “Dil Diyan Gallan” by the vivacious Atif Aslam, “Baari” by Bilal Saeed and Momina Mustehsan, “Samjhawan – Lofi Flip” by Jawad Ahmad, “Khuda Aur Mohabbat (Original Score)” by Rahat Fateh Ali Khan, and “Tu Jhoom”.
The top five tracks in terms of streams for the year 2023 are “Beqadra” by Spotify Fresh Finds artist Nehaal Naseem, “4U” by Spotify RADAR artist Maanu, “Mangan Aiyaan” by Atif Aslam, “Lagda Nahi” by Toshi and Ammy Gill, and “Bin Maahi” by the legendary Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan.
One thing is obvious as we continue to see this phenomenal rise in popularity: Punjabi music is here to stay, uniting music lovers all over the world in a peaceful celebration of culture and art.
