A long-lost album by the renowned singer Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan, titled “Chain of Light,” is set to be released more than three decades after its original recording. Recorded at Real World Studios in April 1990, the album features four Sufi Islamic devotional songs known as “qawwals,” including one track that has never been heard before. This album, discovered in 2021 during an archive relocation at Real World Records, will finally be available to listeners on September 20.
Peter Gabriel, who signed Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan to Real World Records in 1989, expressed his enthusiasm for the album’s upcoming release. Gabriel praised Khan as one of the greatest singers he had ever worked with, highlighting Khan’s ability to evoke deep emotions with his voice. He emphasized the significance of rediscovering the forgotten tapes and described the album as showcasing Khan at his peak, a testament to his extraordinary talent and global appeal.
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During the recording of “Chain of Light,” Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan was concurrently working on another notable album, “Mustt Mustt,” in collaboration with guitarist and producer Michael Brook. This period marked a pivotal phase in Khan’s career, where he skillfully combined traditional qawwali music with contemporary elements, thereby expanding his influence to a wider international audience.
Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan, who passed away in 1997 at the age of 48 due to a heart attack, left an indelible mark on the world of music. His unique vocal prowess captivated diverse artists and fans alike, including prominent figures such as Eddie Vedder, Madonna, Jeff Buckley, and The Rolling Stones. Buckley, in particular, revered Khan as “my Elvis,” underscoring Khan’s enduring influence and legacy in music history. In recognition of his remarkable talent, Rolling Stone magazine honored Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan by ranking him 91st on their prestigious list of the 200 Greatest Singers of All Time in 2023.
