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
September 18, 2019
September 18, 2019

Minar Magic continues!

One of the most successful young artistes in the music industry today, Minar is a proverbial “hit machine”.

September 13, 2019
September 13, 2019

“We need to uplift the band music industry” – Mir Shishir

I am composing and producing an album, in which established and upcoming vocalists alike will lend their voices. I am very excited about the project, as it features some of the most talented artistes in the industry now.

September 6, 2019
September 6, 2019

I want to be an actor, not a ‘hero’ – Afran Nisho

One of the most sought-after stars of the television industry, Afran Nisho constantly challenges and reinvents himself through playing different characters. After a busy Eid season, where he starred in a plethora of hit tele-fictions, the dashing actor looks to ease into work once again. The Daily Star catches up with Afran Nisho for an exclusive interview.​

August 30, 2019
August 30, 2019

Arekta Rock Band in town!

“We’re not here to compete,” says talented upcoming guitarist Ifaz Abrar Reza while taking a sip of coffee, “we are here to have fun. As long as we are doing that, I think we’ll keep making music.”

August 18, 2019
August 18, 2019

Indalo drops remake of ‘Miththa’

Indalo, one of Dhaka’s sensational mainstream bands, is set to launch their latest EP, Notun Khame Purono Chithi, which contains

August 16, 2019
August 16, 2019

Ishfaque Kamal

One of the propellers of team Daekho’s comedic fame, Ishfaque Kamal is one of the shining young stars in the Bangladeshi stand up arena. Always quirky and up for a chat, Ishfaque sits down with The Daily Star for a cup of coffee and a round of One Minute Please!

August 16, 2019
August 16, 2019

“The current generation of musicians is extremely talented” – Shahbaz Khan Pilu

Shahbaz Khan Pilu, best known as the drummer of pioneering Bangladeshi band Renaissance, is also one of the sharpest musical minds in the industry. The veteran is set to release his debut solo album, Tomra Bhalo Acho To?, where he sets out to show his musical flair to the contemporary audience. The musician talks to The Daily Star about his latest endeavor.

August 16, 2019
August 16, 2019

Happy birthday Maestro

Today marks the birthday of one of the greatest musicians to touch Asian soil, Ayub Bachchu. This is his first birthday since his untimely demise. His contribution to the music industry cannot be understated -- any youngster who picks up the guitar today is bound to be directly or indirectly influenced the maestro who uplifted the status of the instrument itself in Bangladesh.

August 4, 2019
August 4, 2019

The Armeen Musa Band’s ‘Live from Space’ takes off

The Armeen Musa Band, led by talented singer-songwriter Armeen Musa, is set to release a live recorded album, which is comprised of Armeen’s own tracks and wonderfully realized renditions of popular songs.

August 2, 2019
August 2, 2019

“Nothing will stop me from working” – Sonia Hossain

Sonia Hossain is a well-known face on television, having made her mark as an actor, model and television anchor. Besides being a respected media personality, she is also an associate at a law firm, through which she attended the World Economic Forum’s 19th Annual Meeting in China recently.