Introduction
Mohammad Muneem Nazir, widely known as Alif, has captivated audiences with his unique blend of Kashmiri and Urdu poetry. His ability to fuse contemporary sounds with deep-rooted lyrical themes makes him a standout voice in South Asian music. Currently in Milwaukee, the singer-songwriter is preparing to release his latest single, “Zu Ha Wandai”, a deeply intimate and evocative song about sharing one’s soul with another.
The Essence of “Zu Ha Wandai”
At its core, “Zu Ha Wandai” delves into the emotional transactions between individuals—what truly remains beyond words and actions. Alif explains that even something as simple as a forehead kiss can hold profound meaning. His choice to begin the song in a low vocal register symbolizes the ease of initial conversations, while the higher-pitched segments reflect deeper emotional intensity. This deliberate vocal shift mirrors the emotional crescendo that unfolds in real-life interactions.
A Trust-Built Production
Produced by Alif’s longtime collaborator Aman Moroney, the song is the result of years of mutual trust and artistic synergy. Muneem describes the creative process as organic and intuitive, requiring little explanation between the two artists. The inclusion of strings enhances the song’s emotional depth, portraying solitude and loneliness with haunting beauty. For Alif, strings add a level of sentimentality unmatched by any other instrument. “It’s about the way they make you feel,” he explains.
Beyond the technical aspects, Alif emphasizes that this song was born from an organic process of trial and error, improvisation, and instinct. “Sometimes, you don’t have to explain yourself, you just go with the vibe of it,” he says, highlighting the almost telepathic understanding he shares with Moroney.
A Return to Kashmiri Roots
Alif’s recent work, including his 2024 EP collaboration with Rekha Bhardwaj, showcases his commitment to blending poetry and music. The EP, titled Ab Mujhe Ishq Karna Aata Hai, was an emotional lifeline for him, written over four years as a form of survival through poetry and melody. Each track represents a different shade of love, longing, and self-discovery.
Amidst this predominantly Urdu and Hindi discography, the inclusion of Kashmiri lyrics in “Mirror Mirror On The Wall” rekindled his desire to release a Kashmiri-language track. For Alif, language is more than just words—it’s an instrument of emotion, as personal as the thoughts and tears it carries. He believes that one’s native language is deeply intertwined with emotions, stating, “The language you think in, the language you cry in, the language you feel most vulnerable in—that’s the closest to your heart.”
Expanding Horizons: U.S. Shows & International Interest
Beyond his New York performance, Alif’s U.S. tour has sparked interest from international labels. While he acknowledges that audiences may not fully grasp Kashmiri poetry’s nuances, he sees his language as an instrument—akin to a saxophone or cello solo—resonating with listeners in unexpected ways.
His performances in Los Angeles and Milwaukee under the moniker Alif Faqat—signifying his solo acoustic set—reinforce his belief in the raw, intimate essence of music. “Music, in its truest form, is about picking up a guitar and letting the song take shape organically. That’s how it’s made, and that’s how I like to present it to people,” he shares.
While his work remains deeply rooted in South Asian traditions, he acknowledges the growing global interest in world music and regional languages. “There’s a curiosity, and sometimes, it’s not even about the words—people connect with the feeling behind the music,” he notes.
What’s Next? EP Tour & More
Upon his return to India, Alif plans an EP tour for Ab Mujhe Ishq Karna Aata Hai alongside Rekha Bhardwaj. He eagerly anticipates bringing these songs to live audiences, embracing the raw, unfiltered energy of performing on stage. The tour will mark a new milestone in his career, as he intends to incorporate intimate storytelling elements into his performances.
Beyond the tour, Alif continues to explore new sonic territories. He has hinted at future collaborations with international artists and an upcoming full-length album that further bridges traditional Kashmiri poetic themes with modern soundscapes.
Alif’s journey, rooted in Kashmiri poetry, emotional depth, and cross-cultural exploration, continues to evolve. Whether through deeply personal compositions like “Zu Ha Wandai” or his international outreach, his artistry remains a testament to music’s universal power.
