Our music industry requires singers who have calibre and versatility along with a beautiful and melodious voice capable of mesmerising listeners. Swani Zubayeer falls into this category with ease and has emerged as a well-known name in his chosen sphere. He is one of those few singers, who are unafraid to take risks and experiment with different styles and genres.
The singer-composer grew up in an environment where he learnt to retain and respect our unique cultural identity in all its diversity and richness; and it was in his childhood that his creativity and artistic talent attained full expression. His grandfather was an eminent poet and his parents had vast knowledge of and interest in literature.
Zubayeer says, “I used to listen to all sorts of music and songs -- Indian classical, songs of Manna Dey, Boney M, ABBA, symphonies of Mozart and Beethoven and what not. I used to play the records and sing along.” In an era where the current generation is headed towards rock and roll and hip hop, it is refreshing to see Zubayeer cherish ghazals as well.
His first musical guru was a family friend, Gobindo Ravi Das from whom he learnt the basics of Indian classical music. Zubayeer was also the disciple of the torchbearers of the Patiala Gharana, Ustad Mazhar Ali Khan and Ustad Jawad Ali Khan. But the down to earth singer says, “I learnt music for myself, because I loved it, and not solely for performing. I did not want to limit my knowledge only to the subcontinent but aspired to know about music from various corners of the world.” Zubayeer continues, “I was told by my teachers -- and also strongly believe -- that no matter what you compose never forget your own culture and heritage.”
Talking about the contemporary singers he states, “We have a lot of talented musicians in our country. But they do not use their talent fully. I feel there is a lack of determination. If they had the enthusiasm and the courage to take risks, they could go a long way.” Zubayeer who has studied literature and music both at home and abroad says, “When I got the opportunity to learn, I went to India and Sweden. I practically did all sorts of work, which included odd jobs as well to provide for myself. I guess the youngsters of today do not want to work hard. They want to get everything overnight. There is a lack of patience and tenacity.”
According to him “I believe there is a crying need to establish more quality institutions and forums on music. We require the exchange of ideas and experience among those involved in the development, presentation and enjoyment of music. It is imperative that we harness our rich tradition to meet the challenges of the changing time. Serious research should be conducted in the field of music in order to mobilise opinion, promote excellence, preserve and encourage innovation and adaptation. I would like to see that we develop greater mutual awareness and a more dynamic interaction in our musical arena. I want to see a Bangladesh where everybody is educated in music. Where everyone is acquainted not only with our different forms of music but also the music from around the world -- be it African, Indian, Operas or the symphonies of Mozart and Beethoven.”