Sadi Mohammad Shahnewaz

Editor, Arts & Entertainment and Star Showbiz, The Daily Star.

Poorly arranged concerts should not be an ‘Aadat’

It is rather telling of the people when the army has to show up because of how people behave at a concert. “They brought an international band to a mall to perform,” said Sakib, who had attended the concert with high hopes. “It was a total joke. Organisers started taking selfies with the band mid-show, while Jal had to ask 20 times for a light to be turned off.”  

1m ago

Fatima: Where noble intention trumps flawed execution

Dhrubo Hasan’s “Fatima” is an ambitious undertaking, with the director’s passion clearly visible in the script – the aspects of our Liberation War and how we are all fighting our own inner wars, the torment that women still go through for being a woman, the extent to which a close one’s betrayal could be delusionally overlooked.

5m ago

Canada chants ‘Artcell, Artcell!’ as beloved band celebrates 25 years

On May 5, Toronto’s Hamilton saw what was the largest audience for a band in decades. To everyone’s surprise, it was not a North American band, but a Bangladeshi one, celebrating 25 years of their glorious music on tour.

6m ago

Rock n’ Rhythm 4: Mired in chaos, overcome with emotion

On a day when the rain gods smiled favorably upon the hopes of about ten thousand people, barricades were broken, a stampede nearly ensued, and some logistical issues nearly ruined the experience for those holding general tickets at "Rock N’ Rhythm 4.0" in the capital’s International Convention City Bashundhara. However, for five men who have dedicated their entire lives to music, none of this could dampen the emotional reunion of Black's original lineup.

6m ago

Joy Shahriar: A one-man artistic ecosystem

“I could have bought a very nice phone with the money I bought this guitar with,” said Joy Shahriar in The Daily Star’s canteen, proudly flaunting his baby Taylor guitar. “But I chose this expensive guitar. I don’t have unlimited funds, but I know my priorities.” In a way, this sums up the “Shotti Bolchi” singer’s entire career – a story of passion, strife, and street smarts.

6m ago

Black reunion: A one-off?

Music in Bangladesh was never the same after Black launched “Amar Prithibi” in 2002. Taking off the much harder edge brought in by the rock bands of the ‘90s, it was Black who arguably popularised alternative rock in the country, along with acts like Nemesis and Stentorian.

6m ago

Minar moves forward with music

So, what is the artiste looking for in a partner? “Well, she has to be a good, honest person, and that’s pretty much it.” While we are yet to have found the lucky woman with a lifetime of free passes to Minar’s concerts, here’s to hoping that we can finally write ‘original’ news about his wedding.

8m ago

I’m respectful of Bangladesh’s rich musical heritage: Badshah

In an exclusive interview with The Daily Star, Badshah shared his insights and reflections on his recent trip to Bangladesh, shedding light on his experience and aspirations.

8m ago
November 15, 2019
November 15, 2019

Farooque Bhai Project’s ‘Golapi’ dreams

Farooque Bhai Project, helmed by talented funk-pop artist Issa Nibras Farooque, has captured the adoration of the ever-growing indie fan base in Bangladesh. Golapi, an upbeat pop song with a hilariously funny music video, was released by the project yesterday, and was instantly viral on social media.

October 20, 2019
October 20, 2019

A look into Ash Fahim’s music endeavours

Ashique M Fahim, from the band Ash Ravens, is a Bangladeshi Australia-based musician, adept at playing a vast array of genres. ‘Tomar Gaan’, his tribute song to the great Ayub Bachchu, was released recently.

October 18, 2019
October 18, 2019

In honour of the great AYUB BACHCHU

Today marks the first death anniversary of the greatest guitarist, showman and musician in Bangladesh’s history, Ayub Bachchu.

October 15, 2019
October 15, 2019

“Real-life romance is unpredictable” – Sabila Nur

Thank you very much! I am very excited right now. I would like to thank all my friends and fans, who have congratulated me as of yet. Even though the wedding has been in the works for three months, I have known Nehal for quite a while now. I am happy that things are falling into place.

October 14, 2019
October 14, 2019

Maqsood O’ Dhaka announces ‘Global Bauliana’

Featuring strong environmental and social messages of peace, harmony and cohesion, Bangladeshi stalwart band Maqsood O’ Dhaka has announced its newest album, Global Bauliana.

October 11, 2019
October 11, 2019

Rendezvous with the Rickshaw Girl

What you have been up to lately?

September 26, 2019
September 26, 2019

“I was always a musician at heart” – Tasnim Anika

Tasnim Anika is one of the exciting prospects in the music industry. Her vocal range and power sets her apart as a singer.

September 24, 2019
September 24, 2019

“Dream big, stay happy and keep smiling” - Sheena Chohan

A former Miss Universe participant, Sheena Chohan is on a journey to becoming a global star. Having finished shooting for award-winning American director Taron Lexton’s forthcoming film, Nomad, she looks forward to more ground-breaking projects. The diva had a candid conversation with The Daily Star, while on her latest trip to Bangladesh.

September 20, 2019
September 20, 2019

S R H BIPRO

Stand Up Comedy is one of the most daunting prospects for a performer, and S R H Bipro pulls it off with finesse and ease.

September 20, 2019
September 20, 2019

The ‘ChotoBhai’ comes of age

It happened very randomly, I must say. In 2017, a friend, who also made YouTube videos, took me to Burger King, and we shot a video. It got a lot of traction, and I did not expect that at all. Slowly, I started coming out with more videos, and that is how it all started.