A long-lost album by the late Pakistani singer Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan is set to be released over 30 years after its initial recording, the official account of the deceased musician, managed by his estate, announced on social media.
“Today we are very proud to announce the release of Chain of Light — a lost album by the late Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan & Party. It will be released by @realworldrec on 20 September 2024,” they wrote on Instagram.
Khan originally recorded Chain of Light at Real World Studios in April 1990. According to Peter Gabriel’s Real World Records, the album was misplaced in warehouse storage and only resurfaced when the label moved its archive in 2021. The album features four qawwals, including one previously unheard track.
The singer recorded Chain of Light while working on the 1990 album Mustt Mustt, a collaboration with guitarist and producer Michael Brook.
In a statement, Peter Gabriel recently expressed his admiration for Khan. “I’ve had the privilege to work with many musicians from around the world, but perhaps the greatest singer of them all was Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan. His voice could evoke extraordinary emotions, and we were proud to help bring his music to a broader global audience,” Gabriel described the discovery of the forgotten tape in their library as a true delight. “This album showcases Khan at his peak. It’s a remarkable record,” he added.
Born in Faisalabad in 1948, Khan’s soulful voice transcended cultural and linguistic barriers, captivating audiences worldwide. His unique ability to blend classical and contemporary elements brought him international acclaim and introduced Qawwali to a global audience. Throughout his career, the singer collaborated with various artists, including Peter Gabriel and Michael Brook, enhancing his influence across different music genres.