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
June 1, 2019
June 1, 2019

“My greatest achievement is Feedback” - Foad Nasser Babu

Foad Nasser Babu has been the leader and keyboardist of Feedback for 40 years, a crowning achievement in the band music arena of the country. As a composer, he has also created countless memorable jingles, as well as kick-started many young musicians’ careers with his tunes. On the occasion of his birthday yesterday, the humble legend talked to The Daily Star about his musical journey, plans, and more.

June 1, 2019
June 1, 2019

The versatile actor

When he is on the set, he runs the show

June 1, 2019
June 1, 2019

The witty one

He looks up to Salman Shah as inspiration

June 1, 2019
June 1, 2019

The prodigal son

The prodigal son is a master of melody

June 1, 2019
June 1, 2019

The superstar

He makes you laugh, he makes you cry His skills are genuine, his earnesty is high

May 25, 2019
May 25, 2019

Bappa’s tribute to the National Poet

For the first time in his illustrious career, Bappa Mazumder recorded a Nazrul Sangeet, titled Meghero Damru, on the occasion of Nazrul Jayanti. The singer, who is adept at different genres of Bangla music, was very excited for the project. “I was a little nervous when I set out to arrange this song

May 22, 2019
May 22, 2019

Pushing the boundaries of a lease

The busy roads of Kahettuly in Old Dhaka are home to many timeworn buildings with interesting architecture and history. One such building stands at 15 BK Ganguly Lane -- a property owned by the government -- with seven leaseholders living there.

May 21, 2019
May 21, 2019

“This was a life-altering experience” - Tahsan on ‘Footsteps of Tagore’

“At one point in life, we feel like we have learned everything there is to know,” says Tahsan, in an uncharacteristically excited tone.

May 12, 2019
May 12, 2019

"Jazz gave me an identity” – Imran Ahmed

Imran Ahmed is perhaps the most recognisable face in the very niche jazz scene in the country, doing regular shows both home and abroad with his band: Imran Ahmed Trio.

May 9, 2019
May 9, 2019

Subir Nandi’s final journey

It was a morose day, with the unbearable heat beating down on everyone at the Central Shaheed Minar. Despite that, thousands of people from all walks of life wanted to catch a glimpse of him, their favourite artiste Subir Nandi, one last time.