Greatest Pakistani Singers of All Times

 Pakistan is known for its rich-history of producing great artists and musicians, who made their names not just in Pakistan but across the globe. The foundation of Pakistani music was laid down by the tune of Amir Khusrau, poetry of Mirza Ghalib and Mir Taqi Mir, voices of Patiala Gharana. The foundation was further solidified by the post-independence stars. The list of these stars is unending and often debatable. Here I am going to list down some of the Greatest names in Pakistan's singing industry.

1. Ustad Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan

As you all might have expected, Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan stands out as the greatest of all times in the Indian sub-continent. The legend classical singer and musician was born in Faisalabad in 1948 and lived for five decades. He began his career as a Qawwali vocalist and went on becoming the uncrowned King of Qawwalis. Ustad was featured in the 50 Great Voices by NPR Radio. NFAK is known for Classical Music, Sufi songs, and Qawwalis. Nusrat also sang songs for Bollywood Films, Pakistani movies, and patriotic songs.
2. Mehdi Hassan

The list is further followed by the great Mehdi Hassan Khan. He is second to none when it comes to Ghazal Singing. Ghazals of Faiz Ahmed Faiz, Mir Taqi Mir, Mirza Ghalib, Ahmed Faraz, and Bahadur Shah Zafar in the voice of Mehdi Hassan still stand out the perfect music combo. He is also regarded as the Emperor of Ghazals. Mehdi Hassan has won numerous civil awards from Pakistan and India. His achievements include Tamgha-i-Imtiaz, Hilal-i-Imtiaz, Nishan-i-Imtiaz, Pride of Performance Award, Gorkha Dakshina Bahu (Nepal Government), K. L. Saigal Award (India) among many others. He aslo won Niger Award 10 times.

3. Nazia Hassan

When talking about greatest singers, how can we miss the Queen of Pop music in South Asia. The young Nazia Hassan gave songs like Aap Jesa Koi, Disco Deewane, and many others. She along with her brother Zoheb Hassan appeared in multiple songs including Bollywood track songs. She was also the youngest to win the Pride of Performance award. Nazia Hassan died at the age of 35 in the year 2000, leaving a legacy of Pop music behind.
4. Abida Parveen

Sufi music overall has its roots in Pakistan. Whenever the term Sufi Music is taken, Abida Parveen comes out in the mind instantly. In the era of Auto Tune, Abida is still continuing the custom of Sufi Vocalism making it even more diverse through collaboration with singers of other genre. She is currently the greatest in Kafi Sufi Music. The Queen of Sufi Music has represented Pakistan and Pakistani culture all around the world.
5. Ghulam Ali

I began my article mentioning the roots of Pakistani music. I also named Patiala House there. Patiala House can be called the first house of Pakistani music. Among the great names coming from the house, Ustad Ghulam Ali also carries a big name. because of his unique singing style, attractive vocals, and indescribable skills, Ghulam Ali's Ghazals are still a must in Gen-Z's playlist. His top work includes Chupke Chupke Raat Din, Hungama Hai Q Barpa, Chamakte Chand Ko, Kal Chaudhvin Ki Raat Thi, Mai Nazar Se Pi Raha Hoon, Ye Pagal Dil, and Apni Dhun Mein Rehta Hoon.

6. Atif Aslam

Before 21st century, Pakistan did not have enough names in Rock music. The Rock Star Atif Aslam first appeared in a Pakistan band Jal where he sang several songs that went viral in both Pakistan and India. It was his first album named Jal Pari. Atif sung songs for Indian movies and appeared in music shows there. He debuted in his only film Bol in 2011. In Pakistan, his appearances have been limited to patriotic songs especially those released by the ISPR. Atif also holds the crown of singing for PSL Anthem and official anthem for ICC Champions Trophy 2025.  
7. Ali Zafar

Ali Zafar can be called the first Urdu electronic and rock singer. followed by Abrar Ul Haq in Punjabi music. His song Channo from album Huqqa Pani gave him the initial fame. He then shifted to acting career. He appeared in TV Serials like Kollege Jeans and Landa Bazar. He has done tens of films in Pakistan and India. Lately, Ali Zafar remained the topic of discussion regarding PSL Anthems. 
8. Rahat Fateh Ali Khan

Carrying the legacy of his late uncle Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan, Rahat followed the Classical and Modern genres. He also recorded the NFAK's famous songs. Rahat too got his peak fame in Bollywood. He topped the Bollywood during the early 10s. He was banned from Indian cinema because of Money Laundering related controversies. He has been featured in OSTs of Pakistani Drama serials making him even more famous.

Things do not just end here. There are many other names that could further extend the list and I would like to update the list in future. Your suggestion will be very helpful.