An interesting conversation with Tarab Nafees, an emerging voice from the Top 7 of Pakistan Idol.

In Pakistan’s biggest music show, “Pakistan Idol,” a captivating and mesmerizing voice has gripped every listener – and that voice belongs to Tarab Nafees. There is a sweetness, a depth, and a magic in her voice that touches the strings of the heart and immerses the listener in a beautiful feeling. As soon as she steps onto the stage, a hush falls over the audience, and then her voice spreads through the air, settling into every heart.

Fond of singing since childhood, this talented young artist has reached the grand stage of Pakistan Idol through dedication, hard work, and continuous practice. She has now secured her place in the Top 16 and continues to present new shades of her talent with every performance. There is softness, composure, and sincerity in her style that enchants listeners.

Tarab’s voice is not just a voice – it’s an emotion. Sometimes it rises like a wave of joy, and at other times it awakens a sweet ache deep within the heart. The purity of her notes, the honesty of her emotions, and her love for music are evident in every performance. This talent is part of her heritage – her mother, Iram Nafees, is deeply connected to music and has guided her, refining her voice and style.

Tarab is not only a singer but also a dedicated student, determined to pursue both her education and music side by side. Her personality reflects humility, hard work, and a passion for turning dreams into reality. For her, Pakistan Idol is not just a competition but a journey that has built her confidence, given wings to her dreams, and provided her with a new identity.

Q: Tell us about yourself. What is your education and what have you achieved so far?
A: I’ve completed my A-Levels and plan to join university soon. I studied Business Studies and Economics and will continue in the same field. Initially, my academic performance wasn’t great, but after COVID things improved, and now I’m working hard to do even better. I’ve always participated in competitions and extracurricular activities, especially singing contests. I’ve also appeared in some TV programs and, with my family’s prayers, have achieved success – and this journey continues.

Q: Have you been singing since childhood?
A: Yes, I’ve loved singing since childhood. My family has a musical background, so I’ve been listening to and learning music from an early age.

Q: Did music affect your studies?
A: No. Before COVID, I balanced both well. During online classes, I had to focus more on studies, so music took a backseat. But now I’m focusing equally on both again.

Q: What role did your parents play in your musical journey?
A: My mother, Iram Nafees, is associated with music and has been a music and Urdu teacher. She taught me everything. She would write songs for us to memorize and practice. My father is quite busy, but whenever needed, he also guided us.

Q: Any special remedy to take care of your voice?
A: I avoid cold and sour foods. I don’t follow any special remedy – just drink a cup of tea before performing, and it really enhances my voice.

Q: How many siblings do you have?
A: We are four sisters – Simul, Sajar, me (Tarab), and our youngest sister, Saman.

Q: How did you decide to join Pakistan Idol?
A: It wasn’t my idea initially. My elder sister found out about the auditions and encouraged me. My mother also insisted, so I went for it.

Q: How has your experience been so far?
A: It’s been amazing. I’ve made great memories, new friends, and gained a lot of confidence. We’re all still in touch.

Q: What are your expectations?
A: I’m trying my best to reach the finals.

Q: Do you hope to win?
A: Of course, but I don’t think too much about winning – I’ve left that to God.

Q: Who guides your practice?
A: Shuja Haider oversees music, and Tanveer Afridi selects songs. We mostly practice ourselves and also help each other.

Q: Do people recognize you now?
A: Yes, especially in Lahore and Islamabad. It feels nice, though a bit unusual, since I’m not used to it yet.

Q: What about your classmates?
A: They’re very supportive. My teachers and classmates congratulated me and prayed for my success.

Q: How did you get into the ISPR song?
A: They first contacted my father. Initially, I thought it might be a scam, but after confirmation, I participated. It was my first music video and an unforgettable experience.

Q: Future plans – music or business?
A: I want to pursue both, but if I had to choose, I’d pick music – it’s my passion.

Q: Who manages your social media?
A: My sister and I handle it ourselves.

Q: If you win Pakistan Idol, what will you do?
A: I haven’t thought about it yet, but the joy would be indescribable.

Q: Who else would you like to see win?
A: We’re all very close – anyone winning would make us all happy.

Q: Which contestant’s voice do you like?
A: Nabeel bhai – he has great variety in his voice.

Q: Which artists inspire you?
A: I love Asim Azhar, and among classic singers, Noor Jehan.

Q: Is it easier to copy songs or create your own?
A: Copying is easier since everything is already composed – you just add your own variation.

Q: Do you write or compose songs?
A: Not yet.

Q: Did you ever feel discouraged?
A: Yes, after one performance I felt I might not move forward, but thankfully I did. During eliminations, it was always emotional.

Q: Who is your true teacher?
A: My mother.

Q: Do all your sisters sing?
A: Yes, we all love singing.

Q: If you competed among yourselves, who would win?
A: (laughs) Probably none – we’re all equally good.

Q: How are the judges?
A: All are very kind. Rahat Fateh Ali Khan is especially compassionate and always gives helpful feedback and encouragement.

Special Box
Q: If Tarab wins Pakistan Idol, what will happen?
A: (Father, Nafees Khan): Years ago, she won a competition on March 23 and received 100,000 rupees. When she came home, she hugged the walls, saying she’d buy a new house, then hugged the fridge saying she’d buy a bigger one. We all laughed at her innocence. Even today, remembering her joy fills me with happiness.