From TSC to Madison Square Garden

The pride that we feel, being able to perform for our country in MSG, that too with legends like Scorpions, is overwhelming – we simply cannot wait for May 6.

There are few bands in Bangladesh who are as internationally appealing and well rounded as Chirkutt. The folk rock pioneers will break new ground by performing with Scorpions at Madison Square Garden (MSG), New York at the Golden Jubilee Bangladesh concert, celebrating 50 years of our country's Independence. We talked to Chirkutt about their preparations, excitement, and thoughts about the concert.

Congratulations on the tremendous achievement. How does it feel to be performing in the world's most famous arena?

Truth be told, it is surreal! The pride that we feel, being able to perform for our country in MSG, that too with legends like Scorpions, is overwhelming – we simply cannot wait for May 6.

You are often referred to as the 'international' band of Bangladesh. Do you think that is the reason behind your selection at the event?

We feel that it all boils down to our hard work and perseverance, or 'rizik'. We have toured all over the world – Norway, the United Kingdom, Sri Lanka and even the USA, and I think the organisers found value in our resume. We are thankful to the ICT Division, UNDP, the US Embassy, and all the organisers for including us in this historic event. 

The local partner of the concert were Mainspring, they are playing a crucial role in this. Out heartiest gratefulness to them as well.

Scorpions and Chirkutt have something in common: both the bands have raised awareness on various social issues throughout the years.

They (Scorpions) are a band older than Bangladesh itself, in terms of years. When it comes to awareness, we feel like not only artistes, but every individual needs to voice out in their own way when we see an injustice or an issue.

We are entering an age where we directly compete with music all over the world. Do you think our local bands are ready for it?

Many bands are doing really well, and will only grow in the future. With young acts like Smooches, Bangla Five, F Minor, The Rehman Duo, we see the industry having limitless potential. When we performed in MTV, we kept in touch with them, and recommended some artistes from Bangladesh. An industry will only be strong if we grow together.

Chirkutt will celebrate 20 years in 2022. Do you have any plans?

We will celebrate with our fans, well-wishers and colleagues later this year. We have come a long way – from performing in TSC all the way to Madison Square Garden. Our upcoming releases include "Maati Geeti", a project of 5 folk tracks, as well as the songs based on the countries we visit.