More than three decades after its recording, the legendary voice of Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan returns with the release of Chain of Light, a posthumous album unveiled today, September 20, by Peter Gabriel’s Real World Records.
The album features four tracks and has a total runtime of 41 minutes, capturing the essence of Khan’s captivating qawwali performances. Songs such as “Ya Allah Ya Rehman” and “Aaj Sik Mitran Di” immerse listeners in the vibrant atmosphere of Khan’s legendary live concerts. The track “Ya Gaus Ya Meeran” enhances the album’s spirit, while “Khabram Raseed Imshab” adopts a more joyful tone, highlighting the range and depth of Khan’s extraordinary vocals.
Chain of Light was recorded in April 1990 at Real World Studios, coinciding with Khan’s collaboration with Canadian producer Michael Brook on Mustt Mustt. In addition to Nusrat on harmonium and vocals, the album features contributions from his brother Farrukh Fateh Ali Khan, tabla player Dildar Hussain, and chorus members Mujahid Ali, Rehmat Ali, Rahat Ali, Asad Ali, Ghulam Farid, and Khalid Mahmood.
Peter Gabriel, the founder of Real World Records and former frontman of Genesis, shared his admiration for Nusrat upon the album’s announcement in June. “What he could do with his voice and the emotions it evoked were extraordinary,” Gabriel stated. “We were proud to help introduce him to a broader global audience. This album represents him at his peak.”
The recordings were rediscovered in 2021 after being forgotten in storage during the label’s archive relocation. Gabriel described the rediscovery as a “real delight,” noting that Chain of Light showcases Nusrat at his finest.
Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan, who passed away in 1997 at the age of 48, remains a pivotal figure in world music. His qawwali style has garnered international acclaim, with family members like Rahat Fateh Ali Khan continuing his legacy.
