Culture Desk
Legendary rock star Azam Khan received the “Ekushey Padak (posthumous)” for his outstanding contributions in the history of rock music industry.
On Wednesday the government announced names of 21 eminent citizens as recipients of the prestigious Ekushey Padak for 2019 for their contributions in respective fields.
When the news broke into the industry, both the eminent and emerging rock musicians were ecstatic. They expressed and shared their joy with the Dhaka Tribune’s Showtime.
Shafin Ahmed, lead singer and bassist of popular rock band Miles was very excited after getting the news. He told us: “This is a great recognition for our rock music industry; Azam Khan was a pioneering figure to introduce rock music in Bangladesh.”
“He was also a freedom fighter, so both as a musician and a freedom fighter he deserved the award for all his contributions.”
Eminent photographer Imtiaz Alam Beg said: “Everybody involved in the rock music industry waited a long time for this news, we are very happy, rock music finally received national recognition that it deserves.”
“I just can hope in near future deserving rock musicians will receive the award for their contributions field in their lifetime.”
Saifuzzaman, vocalist of rock band Dreek said: “For rock musicians Azam Khan is ‘King of rock,’ and he should have received the award long time ago.
“It is surprising that at that time they played music from passion, and musician like Azam Khan proved that you can be a successful musician if your passion drives you,” he added.
“For a long time rock music industry was neglected, but finally it is being recognized nationally.”
Commonly known as “Pop Guru,” Azam Khan popularized rock music in an independent Bangladesh along with his contemporaries.
After the Liberation War, the rock icon formed his band, “Uchcharon” in 1973, and in very short span of time he became immensely popular for his unique stage persona, different lyrical approach incorporated with rock and pop music.
He left behind his legacy and inspirations for countless numbers of aspiring musicians who consider them as “Pop Shamrat’s” disciples.
Some of his biggest popular numbers are “Ore Saleka, Ore Maleka,” “Jibone Kichhu Pabona Re,” “Ami Jare Chaire,” “Ashi Ashi Bole Tumi,” “Obhimani,” “Rail liner bostite,” “Hei Allah Hei Allah Re,” “Alal O Dulal.”
Azam Khan once said: “We did not create music just to earn money, but to entertain the audience and create an impact.”
His impact forever will motivate musicians and amuse the rock music lovers of Bangladesh.
