Catching up with Fuad

Photo: Sheikh Mehedi Morshed

In the mid-2000s, the music industry in Bangladesh went through a massive change in sound, when Fuad Almuqtadir introduced a unique style of blending genres of folk, rock, pop and electronica, thereby creating a distinctive variety of fusion of Bangla words and music. Not only did the style mesmerise the younger listeners, but Fuad's pattern caught on with every other music lover in the country, especially the urban crowds in and outside of Dhaka. Recently being diagnosed with cancer, Fuad went through surgeries and is currently under medication. He lives in New Jersey, USA with his wife Maya and daughter Azalea.

You were in Bangladesh a few weeks ago for a couple of shows. Could you tell us a little about it?

I was in Bangladesh for two shows in particular. I am not sure if I can talk about the shows in detail, but we had a lot of fun after the longest time!

Can you tell us about the set-up who performed with you?

I had my dream team with me! Amzad (drums), Zerif (guitars), Pavel (bass guitars) and Johan (guitars-- who flew in from the USA as well) played with me. Shuvo, Tashfee, Jon and Rafa performed the songs.

Besides working on your family business, are you working on any music projects in the US?

I am working with a company, Music, through which we create content for different platforms, for instance TV shows.

What do you miss about Bangladesh and the music industry here?

Both my wife Maya and I miss Bangladesh very much! And yes, I also miss the preferential treatment that we always get here (laughs!). I miss the people I worked with here and I really wish I could take everyone to South Jersey with me!

You are a cancer survivor and are still under medication. However, you are still going strong! What would you like to say to all those who are trying their best to survive daily challenges?

Yes, I am still under medication and I take medication for depression as well. Surviving is difficult, but I have my family and my music for support. If you have depression, don't keep it within, don't hide it. You need to come out and talk about it. That's the only way to keep going!