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Patriotism is in the air since the start of August 2017 for obvious
reasons. Marking the 70 year of independence, Coke Studio kicked off
season 10 with the release of “National Anthem” featuring Pakistan’s
finest singers.
Unlike previous year’s “Aye Rah e Haq K Shaheedoon” which was a
heartfelt tribute to the martyrs of Pakistan, Coke Studio is not
convincing enough to win many hearts this time. Attempting to recreate
the national anthem is a difficult act, keeping in mind that it holds
sentimental value for Pakistanis. Coke Studio Season 10’s launch song
doomed due to flat tone and lack of enthusiasm.
Having said that, let’s rewind back and recall the “Moto Z – National
Anthem” tune that was created by Motorola to pay tribute to Pakistan
launched back in 23rd March 2017. No words spoken, and yet that tune was
successful in capturing the mind and hearts of millions of Pakistanis.
The question arises what exactly went wrong with the Coke Studio version
and what was so special about the Moto Z’s instrumental version? Stay
tuned to find out:
Sights & Sounds of “Different is Better” Clicked
the Right Nodes
The concept of Moto Z’s national anthem “Different is Better” was
innovative, showcasing the variety in our culture, customs, food, and
regional languages. In 1.21 minute instrumental video, this national
anthem covered the entire heritage of Pakistan in a heart touching
tribute.The love and enthusiasm for motherland was rightfully felt.
On the other hand, out of 40 renowned singers in the Coke Studio’s
version of National Anthem, hardly six of them were able to strike the
right node. We agree the high notes in National Anthem are hard to
perform, but this recreation by Strings was just terrible.
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Perfect Amalgamation of Cultural Touch is Missing
in Coke Studio Version
“Different is Better”was based on showcasing the rare beauty of Pakistan
in the background of a new rendition of National Anthem played with
various regional instruments like Tabla, Dhol, Sitar, flute etc. The
video is a roller coaster ride of our traditional colors, food, and
culture perfectly displayed. Use of only sounds and visuals in the video
was so beautifully done that it reached the heart of every Pakistani.
Coke Studio’s anthem lacks any form of cultural connection in the video.
Apart from the flat tone, the overall feel of the video is plain and
emotionless to connect hearts. From Ali Sethi's sequined tux to Rachel
Viccaji's black dress, the video looked more of a western jingle than a
national anthem. The wardrobe of the singers and aesthetics should be
given more attention and feel of the national anthem.
“Pakistan” is the Subject of Moto Z’s Anthem
version
The success of instrumental national anthem is due to gripping focus of
its subject i.e. Pakistan. The video was entirely based on beauty and
cultural diversity of Pakistan. Right from the snow covered mountains,
to Minar e Pakistan, the video gives you a quick overview of Pakistan
with the perfect ensemble of sounds of water, mobile phone tune, flute,
sarangi, tabla and up beat Bhanga tune, the video has captured the
beauty of Pakistan perfectly.
Unfortunately, Coke Studio did not utilize the artist’s full potential
in their version. The national anthem looked like an average song which
stresses more on vocals and less on instruments, and with such a
talented lineup, CS relied heavily on the mechanics which overpowered
the vocals and lyrics. There was everything in the video except
“Pakistan”.
Lack of Patriotism and Zeal in Coke Studio Version
Patriotism and love for your mother land needs no language to be
expressed. This idea was rightfully portrayed in the Motorola’s Anthem
version. Without any flashy Hi-Fi tunes, or any notable singer in the
video, yet it was able to create a stir among the nation due to enriched
patriotism and enthusiasm.
Coke Studio version lacks this patriotic connection with the nation. The
entire video was flat, and voices of the artists lack energy,
patriotism, and enthusiasm.
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Motorola’s Anthem Can Be Remembered for Long
Captivating glimpses of beauty of Pakistan and soulful sounds in the
video has made us remember this Motorola’s version since past one year.
We will surely remember and want to listen to it again and again for
long.
Coke Studio’s version is overall dull and flat. Everything associated
with this version seems forgettable. Let us ask ourselves honestly!
Would we give the song another listen? No! Would we remember it? No. |