If there is one name that shines across Pakistan’s artistic horizon with multidimensional brilliance, it is Bilal Maqsood. Belonging to the family of the legendary intellectual Anwar Maqsood, Bilal carved his identity not through lineage but through talent, perseverance and individuality. A celebrated musician, composer, producer and lyricist, Bilal Maqsood remains one of the strongest references in contemporary Pakistani music. As a founding member of the iconic band Strings, he helped create melodies that became generational anthems songs that transcended time and carried within them the fragrance, pain, hope and identity of Pakistan. Born on March 23, 1971, in Karachi, Bilal studied Communication Design at Indus Valley School of Art and Architecture but ultimately chose music as his life’s calling. With Strings, he delivered numerous hits including Sar Kiye Pahaar, Duur, Mera Bichra Yaar, and the cricket anthem Hai Koi Hum Jaisa. His song Na Janay Kyun was also featured in a Hollywood film soundtrack.Bilal has showcased his artistic excellence on platforms like Coke Studio and has received multiple awards in recognition of his services. Today, besides serving as a judge on Pakistan Idol, he also runs a children’s YouTube channel and the popular series Pakkay Dost, aiming to connect young Pakistanis with their language and culture. In a recent exclusive conversation, Bilal Maqsood spoke candidly about music, talent, Pakistan Idol and the future of the industry.

MN: How do you see the future of music in Pakistan?
BM: The future of music in Pakistan is very bright. Pakistani musicians have always been appreciated worldwide. Of course, challenges have existed in every era and they still do but there were times when the difficulties were far greater than they are today. If we look back at the 1980s and 1990s, music faced severe restrictions. Performances were discouraged, and censorship policies were extremely strict. I clearly remember during Prime Minister Junejo’s tenure that if a lead singer’s hair extended below the ears, he could not appear on television. Pop bands were emerging at that time, but if a singer wore blue jeans, the footage would be censored – while black jeans were allowed. I mention these details because I personally edited videos during that period. On the editing table, we were given strict guidelines. If blue jeans appeared in a shot, we had to cut it out. Those were challenging times for artists.

MN: How can an ordinary child establish himself in the world of music today?
BM: We went through very difficult times, but today YouTube and social media have made the music market completely global and open. Musicians no longer need PTV, television channels, or music labels to showcase their work. They can create independently and reach audiences worldwide. Every child who once lacked opportunity now has access to an open platform to present their talent to the world. I genuinely feel that this is a very promising time for Pakistani music.

MN: How do you view the current season of Pakistan Idol?
BM: I would say this is the first real season of Pakistan Idol. The previous season aired 10–11 years ago, and we don’t quite count that one in the same way. The talent we have brought forward this season proves that the future is extremely bright.

MN: Do you expect the next season of Pakistan Idol to be even more competitive?
BM: I believe that if we have discovered this level of talent in the very first season, imagine how many more young artists will prepare themselves for the upcoming seasons. Even among our Top 16 and those who did not make it into the Top 16 there were many exceptionally talented contestants. These young singers were performing Urdu, Punjabi, Sindhi, Balochi representing all our cultural music traditions at a remarkably high standard. Wherever South Asians reside whether in Pakistan or India these children can stand on any platform, at any level, and prove their talent. They are extraordinarily gifted. And those who could not come forward this time, I am confident we will see them in future seasons. I truly believe Pakistan’s future in music is very bright.

MN: Can we compete with the music of our neighboring country?
BM: The kind of talent we possess speaks for itself. If you look at the comments coming from across the border, we do not even need to say anything. Whether it is our Coke Studio or Pakistan Idol, people there are openly praising our singers. So the question of whether we can compete does not really arise. In many areas, we are ahead of them. Of course, in some areas, we are behind. Music is deeply embedded in their culture. What we mostly see is Bollywood, but India has far more than just Bollywood. If you travel to South India or North India, you will find every genre of music and every kind of instrument. They have mastered many aspects of the craft. We, on the other hand, work with limited resources and fewer opportunities. Yet, whatever talent we bring forward can confidently stand before our neighbors and hold its ground.

MN: Can music be pursued as a profession?
BM: The answer is simple: if you are truly good, you can build a professional career in music. But if you are not good enough, then you cannot succeed in any profession not just music.

MN: How does it feel to serve as a judge on Pakistan Idol?
BM: In the beginning, I had no idea what to expect. But the current Pakistan Idol team is outstanding. They are working extremely hard, and when something is produced at a high level of quality, you genuinely enjoy being part of it. Being a judge is actually the most difficult role. All our lives, we have complained that someone was not treated fairly, that someone else did not receive justice. But when you sit in the judge’s chair, the responsibility is immense. It is not easy to carry that responsibility. You constantly have to remind yourself that whatever you say must be free of bias and external pressure. Now that I have been entrusted with this position, I am making decisions with complete sincerity and fairness, to the best of my ability. And as for how it feels – it feels great. I am truly enjoying it. The show has been produced at a very high level – in terms of production quality, audio standards, and the caliber of contestants. If these elements were not strong, the experience would not have been as enjoyable as it is now.

MN: Are you personally teaching music to anyone?
BM: I am not formally teaching any students. However, through Instagram, many young singers send me their finalised work. I listen to it and provide feedback there. If I feel a particular child has potential to improve, I make every effort to guide them accordingly.

MN: Can we also call you a singer?
BM: I do not consider myself a professional singer, though I do sing as a hobby. In our band Strings, which gained worldwide recognition, the real lead vocalist was Faisal Kapadia. His voice and style were loved not only in Pakistan but internationally. I do not place myself among renowned singers. However, you may call me a composer, music director, or producer I have strong command over those areas.

MN: After learning music in Pakistan, is employment guaranteed?
BM: Every parent hopes that once their child completes education, there will be a clear job path ahead, and their responsibility as parents will come to an end. In music, that certainty does not exist immediately. Like most musicians, young artists must struggle in the beginning, and this worries parents. Of course, there are exceptions some individuals achieve fame at a young age without attending any academy but that is not the norm.

MN: Is having a teacher essential to learn music, or is it purely God-gifted talent?
BM: Music is an art form where, if you possess talent, it is not absolutely necessary to attend a school or study under a teacher. You can learn on your own. In today’s world, YouTube can be your teacher. On Pakistan Idol, there are several contestants who sing better than professional singers, and their only teacher has been YouTube. That said, academies and proper infrastructure are still very important. When a young artist enters the professional field, they should have clarity about the path ahead. For example, a banker knows the career ladder where to start, how to progress, and what position to aim for. A doctor can plan their entire professional journey. But a musician often cannot map out a clear life plan. Therefore, it is essential for the country to create opportunities and systems so that if you are talented, there are structured pathways for you to grow.

MN: On Pakistan Idol, do judges make independent decisions, or is there harmony among the panel?
BM: I am extremely happy with Pakistan Idol; it is a remarkable season. There is excellent harmony, friendship, and mutual respect among the judges. We genuinely enjoy working together. If there were disagreements or a lack of coordination, the work would become difficult. Fortunately, the environment on the show is very positive and collaborative. Overall, my experience with Pakistan Idol has been outstanding, pleasant, and truly memorable.

MN: How would you describe the contestants’ growth from auditions to the stage?
BM: Natural talent can truly be groomed through shows like Pakistan Idol. When these children first came for auditions and where they stand today heading into the final rounds the difference is extraordinary. In just a few months, they have been exposed to an environment where they receive feedback from the judges and guidance from mentors behind the scenes opportunities that very few receive. If such shows continue consistently, young artists will undoubtedly have greater chances for professional grooming and development.

MN: You created children’s content titled Pakkay Dost. Please tell us about it.
BM: Yes, Pakkay Dost is a children’s web series that has received an extraordinary response and immense appreciation. It began as a solo initiative I started it entirely on my own. Gradually, more people joined, and the project grew into a collective effort. After the last season, an organisation like UNICEF, which works globally for children, expressed interest in collaborating with Pakkay Dost. That, for us, is a strong validation that we are moving in the right direction.

MN: What is the purpose behind creating this series?
BM: Our primary goal is to focus on children’s early development particularly during the first five years by providing positive guidance and teaching good values, all in their own language, Urdu. At present, much of the content children consume is foreign, and we have little control over what they learn from it. The idea behind Pakkay Dost was to create content that not only children but entire families could watch together. Family time is essential, yet nowadays children are often handed a phone or tablet while parents remain occupied. Many parents feel a quiet sense of guilt about this distance. Therefore, we wanted to create a show that parents themselves would want to watch with their children. With each season, we are seeing that goal materialise. Viewership among parents is steadily increasing, and many parents have become dedicated followers of Pakkay Dost. The show has evolved into a platform for meaningful family bonding. The effort behind this project is steadily bearing fruit. It is being appreciated in Pakistan and has gained particularly strong demand among overseas Pakistanis.