James, Hasan mesmerise audience at ‘Rock N Rhythm 5.0’

Two legendary figures of Bangladesh’s band music scene, Nagar Baul frontman James and Ark vocalist Hasan, mesmerised the audience with their powerful vocals and electrifying stage presence at “Rock N Rhythm 5.0: No Limits in the Zone”, held at Carnival Arena in Jamuna Future Park in the capital on Friday.

The celebrated rock stars brought a wave of nostalgia to the venue, captivating music lovers with their signature singing styles and energetic performances. Their appearances added a special charm to the evening, celebrating the enduring appeal of Bangladeshi rock music. Organised by Adventor Communications, the much-anticipated concert also featured performances by some of the country’s leading rock bands, including Warfaze, Aurthohin and Shunno.

Adding to the excitement, celebrated guitarist Oni Hasan performed alongside Warfaze. The event also featured a special appearance by AK Rahul, making it a memorable occasion for rock music enthusiasts.

James and Hasan have played significant roles in shaping Bangladesh’s band music industry, particularly during the 1990s, when rock music gained immense popularity among younger audiences. Widely known as the “Nagar Baul”, James is one of the most influential figures in Bangladeshi rock music. Rising to prominence as the frontman of Feelings, later renamed Nagar Baul, he helped popularise a distinctive style of rock that blends powerful vocals, emotional storytelling and elements of folk music. His timeless hits, including “Ma”, “Baba”, “Pagla Hawa” and “Taray Taray”, have resonated with generations of listeners.

Beyond Bangladesh, James also gained international recognition through his playback singing in Bollywood films, introducing his distinctive voice to a wider South Asian audience. His contributions have helped establish Bangladeshi rock as a powerful and enduring musical genre.

Similarly, Hasan, the iconic vocalist of Ark, made a remarkable contribution to the evolution of Bangladeshi band music. With his distinctive high-pitched voice and energetic performances, he became one of the defining voices of the country’s rock scene in the 1990s.

Songs such as “Sweety”, “Eto Koshto Keno Bhalobashay” and “Jare Ja” earned widespread popularity and helped Ark establish a lasting place in the hearts of music lovers. His vocal style and stage presence have influenced numerous aspiring rock singers over the years.

The appearance of these two celebrated musicians at the same concert offered a nostalgic experience for longtime fans while highlighting the rich legacy of Bangladeshi rock music for a new generation of listeners.