Coke Studio Bangla

Arnob back on the canvas

On a quiet autumn evening, we visited Arnob’s studio, Kolorob, where he shared reflections on his musical career, insights into his creative journey in art, and his upcoming projects.

Warfaze celebrates 4 decades with concerts worldwide

The iconic rock-metal band Warfaze has triumphantly marked 40 years in the music industry as of June 5 this year. To commemorate this remarkable journey, the band is determined to keep their legacy alive. With a focus on both domestic and international concerts, they are also planning to release new albums and souvenirs. In honour of their four-decade milestone, the band is gearing up for an array of lively celebrations. The festivities will kick off with a highly anticipated tour across the United States, set to begin this September.

‘Obak Bhalobasha’: 30 years later

Warfaze, one of the most celebrated bands in Bangladesh, turns 40 years old today. With albums, compositions, awards and several hits to their name, the band has contributed much to the music industry in Bangladesh. They have also played a vital role– through their melodies and lyrics– in keeping the Bengali language alive, thriving and evolving, over several generations and in countries all over the world, where Bengalis live and communicate accordingly. 

‘Dilaram’ singer Hamida Banu’s hope for a home remains unfulfilled

Nine months ago, the Sunamganj deputy commissioner promised the homeless Hamida Banu a shelter project house in Sunamganj. However, despite their assurance, the 48-year-old folk musician still finds herself without a place to call home as the uncertainty of whether she will ever receive it looms over her like an empty roof.

Beyond appropriation and commodification / The making of Coke Studio Bangla’s complex subjects

I would argue it is inadequate to develop an oversimplified criticism of Coke Studio Bangla.

Arnob unplugged: Candid insights into his artistic journey

The musician is renowned for his exceptional lyricism and musical arrangements and has been a stalwart in the Bengali music scene for decades. Amidst his bustling studio life, he finds solace in the tranquillity of Shantiniketan, where his musical journey began as a disciple.

‘Ma Lo Ma’: Traditional folk meets modern beats in Coke Studio Bangla’s latest drop

"Ma Lo Ma" delves into the profound realisation that life's journey is akin to navigating through the dualities of adulting and nostalgia. It encapsulates the introspective query that often arises with age: "What am I doing here?" Yet, within this existential questioning lies the potential for a beautiful transformation—a self-acceptance that allows individuals to flourish even amidst life's most challenging seasons.

Weaving ‘Tati’ as a musical, visual treat

It has been a couple of weeks at least since the Bangla New Year celebrations, which we lovingly refer to as Noboborsho. However, Coke Studio Bangla’s “Tati” is still dominating playlists. ‘Taanti’, or in this case “Tati”, refers to the craftsperson or the creator of fabrics, who works with the material called taant – depicting motifs, colourful borders, and softness to touch. Especially in this heat, a taant saree or a fatua is always a welcome addition to an average Bangladeshi wardrobe, allowing one to breathe easy and at the same time, look trendy.

Entertainment’s Rising Stars / Oli Louis: The Nigerian man who fell in love with Bangla music

His rendition of "Shada Shada Kala Kala" marked a turning point, garnering widespread acclaim and affirming his belief that Bangladeshis would embrace him as one of their own if he pursued Bangla music wholeheartedly.

March 23, 2023
March 23, 2023

A song that exposed our fear of the hybrid

What made 'Nasek Nasek' so popular, whereas 'Nahubo' received sceptical responses?

March 21, 2023
March 21, 2023

Wind of Change releases new song amidst Coke Studio backlash

Amidst all the controversies regarding Coke Studio Bangla, another musical program, Gaan Bangla released their new song "Dui Kuley Sultan" today. The song features National Film Award-winning singer Oyshee. 

March 20, 2023
March 20, 2023

No singer should ever apologise for his mother tongue

They say that life is a great leveller – and that sentiment is doubly true for the entertainment industry. Coke Studio Bangla, a cultural phenomenon fuelled by endless debates about meritocracy and even capitalism in music, started season 2 with the highly appreciated “Murir Tin”, blending dialects of Chattogram, Khulna and Sylhet to make an incredible musical mishmash.

March 19, 2023
March 19, 2023

Did ‘Nasek Nasek’ set the bar too high for ‘Nahubo’ to reach?

“Nahubo” definitely packs the punch when it comes to the percussions, the resounding sound of which could be an easy fit for any high-octane film about youth revolution. 

March 18, 2023
March 18, 2023

Animes Roy, Daughter of Coastal light up Coke Studio with 'Nahubo'

Today at 6 pm, Coke Studio Bangla released their third song from the second season, titled “Nahubo”.

March 18, 2023
March 18, 2023

Of ‘BONOBIBI’ and music as a form of storytelling

The verses remind us that a withering, war-torn Earth can still birth new life and hopes of freedom.

March 15, 2023
March 15, 2023

Animes Roy features in next Coke Studio song

The second season’s first song, “Murir Tin”, created a wave across the country with its’ soulful music and lyrical composition of local dialects.

March 2, 2023
March 2, 2023

Coke Studio x Meghdol coming one hour after midnight

In the wake of the massive success that was "Murir Tin", Coke Studio Bangla will now be releasing their new song around 1 am tonight.

February 28, 2023
February 28, 2023

Coke Studio Bangla to release second song on Thursday 

It seems the song "Bonbibi" will be about the myth of the same name, heard around the areas in Sundarban. 

February 27, 2023
February 27, 2023

Coke Studio’s Murir Tin: Testament to working class (men’s) struggles

'Murir Tin' is a creative fusion of local tunes and American bluegrass and rap music.