EQUAL Pakistan Ambassadors for September and October 2023
EQUAL Pakistan, a Spotify initiative dedicated to empowering female artists, continues its tradition of spotlighting remarkable musicians who have left an indelible mark on Pakistan’s music scene. In a dazzling display of recognition, Fariha Pervez and Asteria, both eminent artists in their own right, have illuminated the iconic digital billboard in Times Square, NYC. Fariha Pervez graced the screen in September, while Asteria took center stage in October.
Fariha Pervez: The Legend of “Patang Baaz Sajna”
Fariha Pervez, a name synonymous with timeless melodies, has been a beacon of musical excellence since the mid-90s. Her debut album, “Nice & Naughty,” marked the inception of her illustrious career. The soulful rendition of “Patang Baaz Sajna” is etched in the collective memory, often associated with the vibrant celebrations of Basant. As an EQUAL Pakistan Ambassador for September 2023, her track “Silsilay Tor Gaya” resonated with listeners worldwide, earning her a spot on the EQUAL Pakistan playlist.
“I feel honored to be the ambassador for the month of September for Spotify EQUAL Pakistan,” said Fariha Pervez, reflecting on the significance of this opportunity.
“Women need more representation in our society, and we need more platforms like Spotify, which can help raise our voice not only in Pakistan but globally. We need to empower not individually but collectively, and Spotify giving this space helps many women around Pakistan to express themselves freely without any restrictions or limitations. I only hope that more such platforms are given to the many women out there across Pakistan. I am immensely happy to represent women, particularly women from my country,” she added further.
Asteria: A Luminous Star in Pakistan’s Music Sky
Asteria, a captivating figure in Pakistan’s contemporary music landscape, emerged as the EQUAL Pakistan Ambassador for October 2023. Her distinctive blend of pop and indie pop has garnered her a dedicated fan following. Known for emotionally charged lyrics and a unique musical signature, Asteria’s discography boasts mesmerizing tracks such as “1:45”, “Monaco”, “The Palms”, and “Dawn”. Each composition showcases her versatility and originality within the pop genre.
“Being Spotify’s EQUAL Ambassador for Pakistan for October 2023 is genuinely an honor for me,” Asteria expressed with enthusiasm.
“As a songwriter, producer, and multi-instrumentalist releasing songs under the moniker Asteria for over two years, being recognized for my craft like this is an amazing moment. It’s significant to me personally because, growing up, I rarely saw women like me creating music in the genres I loved – rock, indie, and alternative. I’m super grateful to Spotify. Their initiatives to promote female artists across the region are vital; they are creating opportunities for women to be elevated and celebrated for their hard work and art.”
EQUAL Pakistan’s commitment to spotlighting exceptional female artists resonates strongly with its mission of providing a global platform for their voices to be celebrated and heard.