Arif Lohar is a legendary Pakistani folk singer known for his soulful voice and energetic performances. He is considered a national treasure and has successfully bridged the gap between traditional and contemporary music. Lohar’s music is a blend of Sufi, Punjabi, and folk music genres, which has gained popularity not only in Pakistan but also globally.

Arif Lohar was born on September 3, 1966, in Lalamusa, a small town in Pakistan’s Punjab province. His father, the famous folk singer Alam Lohar, was a huge influence on his music career. Lohar’s musical journey started in his childhood when he began playing the traditional Punjabi instrument, the Chimta (tongs), and received training in classical music from his father. He was also exposed to the influences of spiritual and religious music, which heavily influenced his style.

After attaining proficiency in playing the Chimta, Lohar was promptly included in his father’s band, helping him perform locally and beyond. He continued playing with his father’s band, and in 1985 he performed at his first official concert at Lahore’s Alhamra Arts Council.

Lohar’s music journey was marked with achievements as he built his name performing on various platforms. He began performing regularly on Pakistan Television (PTV) and was quickly recognized for his signature Chimta style. Lohar’s speciality in the Chimta playing made him stand out, as he had mixed it with classical and Jazz influences. Moreover, his nasally Sufi vocals became familiarly associated with folk melodies, and his music crossed the borders and influenced eastern and western listeners worldwide.

However, Lohar’s real breakthrough came in the year 1992 when he released his first album, serious soaring, featuring the hit track “Jugni.” The song became an instant hit and is still played in South Asia’s clubs and other musical events. Its title has become a widely used term of endearment, and it is believed that the song’s popularity has helped establish Lohar’s status as the living legend in Pakistan’s music scene. Furthermore, Lohar’s success with “Jugni” was also brought the Chimta to the forefront of music culture, which caught the world’s attention.

In 2006, Lohar’s popularity peaked again when he collaborated with Indian electronic music producer, Mira Dil, for the film, Rang De Basanti, which was a massive hit in India. Together, the duo created a modern rendition of “Jugni,” which was incorporated into the movie alongside another track, “Paean to a dying river.” Lohar’s unique voice and musical style crossed national boundaries, leading to an increase in his international fan base.

Arif Lohar has not only made significant contributions to the Pakistani music industry but also been active in music collaborations, especially with Sufi and folk influences. He has collaborated with several international artists, such as Peter Gabriel, who featured him in an album, Big Blue Ball, in 2008, and DJ Rekha, who remixed “Jugni Ji,” in 2012, as well as Indian artists Karsh Kale and Vishal Dadlani.

Moreover, Lohar established himself by performing in various countries worldwide, including the United Kingdom, Europe, US, Canada, and UAE. His passion and energy for music always leave a positive impact on his audiences, and he always seems to be thriving on their feedback. He is considered one of the best Pakistani performers who can mesmerize the audience with his voice and passion for music.

Arif Lohar’s musical contributions have earned him several accolades. In 2006, he received Pakistan’s Presidential Pride of Performance Award. He was also given the “Artist of the Month” title by BBC Asian Network in 2007 and was featured in CNN‘s list of “50 people who matter” in 2014. Lohar is the only Pakistani artist to have been invited on Coke Studio‘s platform 11 times, where he performed with various artists, including Meesha Shafi, Attaullah khan Esakhelvi, Ali Sethi, and many more. He has become a prominent figure in the Pakistani music industry and has inspired aspiring artists to follow in his footsteps.

Arif Lohar has managed to revive and promote the dying art of Punjabi and folk music in Pakistan. His music is not only appreciated within the country but has also become popular globally. Lohar’s unique voice, Chimta playing style, and Sufi influences set him apart from his contemporaries. His contributions to the music industry ensure that his legacy will live on for generations to come. He remains one of Pakistan’s most celebrated icons, and his fans continue to enjoy his music and admire his contributions to the world of music.