I plan to experiment with my sound while ensuring that world-class storytelling remains at the core: Farhan Khan

Farhan Khan is a rising name in the Hip Hop music. Combining two diverse forms of expression, hard hitting Hip Hop with delicacy of Urdu, he is making a unique space for himself. Upon the release of his album, Arif Laila, he took some time out from him for a candid interaction. Here is what he has to say:

Urdu and Hip Hop is a unique combination of delicacy and street. What makes you combine these two?

Urdu has been an integral part of our culture for a long time, particularly in my hometown of Agra, where the language is deeply rooted in my heritage. Music, in its various forms, has continuously evolved over time, transitioning from ghazals to Bollywood music and now to hip hop. Growing up, I was immersed in hip hop, while my father, a writer of ghazals, instilled in me a love for shayari. This blend of influences from both my cultural roots and my passion for hip hop naturally led me to create music that fuses these two distinct musical traditions.

How much is Alif Laila close to your own personal experiences?

Alif Laila holds a special place in my heart as it is an album I began working on even before my debut album, Khansaab. From the very beginning, I knew that Urdu was a significant part of who I am, and I wanted to create something that blended my skills in hip hop with my connection to Urdu music. This album draws heavily from some deeply personal and heartfelt experiences in my life, which is why I feel such a profound connection to it. It has brought both immense joy and pain into my life, and it will always remain close to me, cherished on a deeply personal level.

Stream the album here:

Which artists have been your biggest influences and what do you imbibe from them?

There are many artists whose work has deeply influenced my love for music, but at the top of that list is Ustad Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan. His music resonated with my soul in a way few others have. He taught me the power of conveying profound messages with minimal words, making every note and lyric carry immense impact. His music and the lessons I have learned from it will always be an intrinsic part of me, both as Farhan Khan and as an artist.

With the year closing, what are the plans for 2025?

In 2025, I plan to experiment with my sound while ensuring that world-class storytelling remains at the core of my work. I’ve already started working on these projects, and the one thing they all exude is CINEMA, haha! I’m also excited about some upcoming collaborations, where I hope to explore new sonic landscapes. Additionally, we are planning a nationwide tour to bring the Alif Laila live experience to all of my fans and listeners across the country.

Tell us a bit more about how you got attracted towards music and how has the journey been so far?

I believe my life has always been leading me towards music. I was born into a family where my father had a deep love for ghazals and shayari, which naturally influenced my early connection to music. In school, I became involved in dancing, which allowed me to truly feel the vibrations of music. Later, I ventured into acting, learning the craft of facing the camera and expressing myself. It was through this journey that I was introduced to Indian hip hop, particularly by listening to Divine. I was captivated by. how he blended real-world street experiences with storytelling in his music. All of these experiences have shaped me into the artist I am today and continue to influence the music I create.

Well, read more about him, follow him and stream Arif Laila!