LOMBARD, Ill.
Over 300 ecstatic fans showed up to hear Raga Boyz, a popular band from Pakistan, perform here at Mezban Restaurant, April 17. Khan brothers Nayab Ali, Wali Hamid Ali and Inam Ali performed music of all genres, from ragas to rock, from Sufi to heavy metal, from folk to fusion. Organizer and host was Ali Khan, emcees Mona Bhalla and Ali King Khan, chief guests Sunil Shah and Moon Khan, office-bearers of the splinter FIA.
Sons of legendary singer Ustad Hamid Ali Khan and nephews of the late Ustad Amanat Ali Khan and Fateh Ali Khan, Raga Boyz are the ninth generation of the famous Patiala Gharana. The three brothers banded in 2006 and the name “Raga Boyz” was coined by none other than their father.
Eldest brother Nayab is known for his divine voice and soulful renditions of classical, semi-classical and Sufi melodies. Lead vocalist Wali Hamid is a pop and semi-classical singer and composer. A high octane stage performer, he keeps the audience on their feet. Inam, 20, the youngest, is a hard core classical singer who renders complex alaap and taan with mesmerizing ease.
“The love from Indians, including emigrants, is encouraging. We always enjoy performing in India, U.S., Canada and around the world,” said Wali Hamid. “In India, people greet us with same warmth every time,” added Inam Ali.
Raga Boyz have performed in some of the best global venues such as Wembley Arena (U.K.) and Radio City Music Hall (NYC). They have appeared with singers such as Shakira and Rihanna. The have won several awards and competitions internationally. Times Music is releasing Raga Boyz’s new album “Raga Rocks – The Ultimate Raga Fusion” in India. The band performed at Blue Frog, Mumbai, July 5, 2013, and Blue Frog, Delhi, July 6, 2013. They sang the song ‘Mann Qunto Maula’ from the film ‘Maximum’, starring Sonu Sood, Neha Dhupia and Naseeruddin Shah.
Sponsors were Sahil, Sophisticutz Salon & Spa, ChunrI Boutique, Adara makeup, Inspire Boutique, Studio Elite, Desi Talent Chicago and New York Life. All splinter FIA members attended along with friends.
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