Mahadi Faisal returns after five years

About 20 years ago, the reality show Close Up One talent show 'Tomakei Khujche Bangladesh' launched, quickly becoming a cultural phenomenon that brought families together to watch fresh singing talent emerge nationwide. 

The show achieved remarkable success, introducing audiences to notable performers of the coming years like Rumi, Ritu Raj, Salma Akhter, Nolok Babu, Rajib, Nishita Barua, and Mahadi Faisal, among others. 

Mahadi Faisal stepped into Bangladesh's music scene more than a decade ago through the very Close Up One talent hunt competition. His potential was evident during the contest and in 2007, he gained widespread recognition with the song 'Tumi Boruna Hole Hobo'. He further went on to lend his voice in duets with the likes of  Elita Karim, and Prince Mahmud with songs written by Asif Iqbal. 

After nearly a decade away from music, the former Close Up One star made his comeback last week with his first track in five years. Titled 'Koto Kache Tomar', the song is written by Asif Iqbal, composed by Emon Chowdhury, and released under Gaanchill Music.

Since the beginning of his career, he has been known for singing songs with refined lyrics, and his song selection reflects his keen artistic sensibility.

"The song was composed some time ago," the singer revealed. "Asif Iqbal Bhai plays a key role in selecting my songs—he writes most of them and puts the most thought into them. Once we start working on a song, we exchange ideas and shape it together."

Although Mahadi's music is well-received, he deliberately stays out of the spotlight, avoiding excessive promotion and sticking to his preferred creative process.

"People often assume I'm reclusive, but that's not the case. I just like to take my time with music and don't enjoy working under strict targets, collaborating with people I'm not comfortable with" he explained.

While talent hunt programs continue in Bangladesh's music industry, fresh faces are becoming less common, and these initiatives have sparked debates. Many artistes also rise to prominence outside of competitions, and Mahadi has his own take on the evolving talent discovery process.

"The talent discovery process is now more open. Previously, experts judged artistes, but with the digital revolution, public opinion determines success. Virality now drives opportunities, often prioritising popularity over essential qualities. When the masses act as judges, emotional appeal can overshadow true talent," he explained.

One of the persistent challenges in the music industry is song royalties, with disputes frequently arising between singers, lyricists, and composers. Despite decades of independence, a proper resolution remains elusive, causing frustration among industry professionals. Mahadi also reflects on possible solutions to this ongoing issue.

"The royalty problem needs urgent attention," he emphasised. "While our country faces many challenges, this matter is often overlooked. Yet, neighbouring countries resolved it long ago."

He also highlighted the limitations of music education, noting that academic institutions mainly focus on singing, harmonium, and tabla, neglecting modern musical instruments and their production.

In his nearly two-decade-long music career, Mahadi has released fewer songs than expected. He has sung in four solo and duet albums—'Bondona', 'Onnorokom', 'Antohin', and 'Antohin 2'—and has contributed to five mixed albums. Though the number is small, each of his songs has been crafted with high quality. Mahadi has his own plans regarding his music career and activities.

Mahadi concluded, "I will keep making music in the future. Single-track releases are the current trend, and digital platforms are the most effective medium. Since full albums are rarely released nowadays, I plan to adapt by putting out an album through single releases."