Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan’s Lost Album Set to Release After 27 Years

A long-lost album consisting of a hidden collection of recordings by the legendary qawwali singer, Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan, will be released on September 20, almost 27 years after his death. This special album, titled “Chain of Light,” was discovered in the tape archives of Peter Gabriel’s Real World Records, the label that had signed Nusrat in 1989. Throughout the 1990s, the label released many successful albums with him.

“Chain of Light” features four traditional qawwali songs, including one that has never been heard before. The album was recorded in April 1990 at Real World Studios. This was around the same time Nusrat was working on his famous album “Mustt Mustt” with Canadian producer Michael Brook. These recordings show Nusrat at the height of his vocal talent.

Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan’s career made him a global cultural icon. His powerful voice, which could cover six octaves, won fans among famous western musicians like The Rolling Stones, Madonna, Michael Jackson, and Eddie Vedder of Pearl Jam. His music also appeared in movies by top Hollywood directors like Martin Scorsese and Oliver Stone.

The tape for “Chain of Light” was found in 2021 during a move of Real World Studios’ archives. The original recordings have been carefully restored, revealing a beautiful version of “Ya Allah Ya Rehman” and the only known performance of “Ya Gaus Ya Meeran.” Michael Brook, who produced some of Nusrat’s other albums, praised the recordings, saying, “These performances are incredibly clear and showcase more musical complexity than Nusrat’s other songs from that period.”

Rashid Ahmed-Din, who managed Nusrat’s international career, said, “1990 was a turning point for Nusrat. It marked the start of his appeal to a western audience. He wanted to explore different musical styles, and these tracks show that.”

Peter Gabriel, reflecting on his work with Nusrat, said, “I’ve worked with many musicians from around the world, but Nusrat was perhaps the greatest. His voice could evoke deep emotions, and we were honored to help bring his music to a wider audience. Finding this tape was a joy, and this album really captures him at his best. It’s a wonderful record.”

Apart from the album release, a documentary about Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan’s life is being made by Saiyna Bashir Studios in Islamabad. The biopic, titled “Ustad,” is expected to come out by the end of 2025. The studio received a grant from the British Council to help promote “Chain of Light.” The album will be available for pre-order in different formats and is being supported by the British Council.

“Chain of Light” by Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan will be available from Real World Records on September 20. This is an exciting release for fans of the qawwali legend, offering a glimpse into his incredible musical legacy.

Follow INCPAK on | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | for updates.