Karachi: Spotify has announced Murtaza Qizilbash as its RADAR Pakistan artist for the second quarter of 2026, spotlighting his unique blend of traditional and contemporary musical influences. The Lahore-born artist is gaining rapid recognition, with listenership and streams significantly increasing since April, marking his growing impact on both local and international audiences.
According to Spotify, Qizilbash's music draws heavily from the cultural and historical tapestry of Lahore, particularly his ancestral home, Mubarak Haveli. This connection is explored in a mini-docuseries produced by Spotify, which delves into how the city informs his creative work.
Qizilbash's tracks, such as "Hum" and "Bhool," are experiencing notable growth in popularity, with streams rising sharply. His latest collaboration, "Har Baar" with Samar Jafri, has reached number 3 on Spotify's "Top 50 - Pakistan" chart. The artist's music is resonating globally, with significant streaming activity in Bangladesh, the US, and the UK. A significant portion of his audience is aged 18-24, indicating a strong appeal among Gen Z listeners.
Rutaba Yaqub, Spotify's Artist and Label Partnerships Manager for Pakistan and the UAE, stated, "Murtaza's ability to blend Lahore's cultural influences, poetry, and contemporary storytelling makes him one of the most exciting emerging voices in Pakistan today." Through the RADAR program, Spotify is committed to supporting artists who are shaping the future of music and culture in the country.
Murtaza Qizilbash expressed his excitement about being selected as the RADAR Pakistan artist, describing it as a milestone in his artistic journey. His work, characterized by its poetic depth and versatility, has been featured on over 200,000 user-generated playlists and key editorial playlists like "Hot Hits Pakistan."
Spotify's RADAR initiative continues to support rising talent, providing artists with a platform for global discovery and growth. Qizilbash follows in the footsteps of previous RADAR Pakistan artists such as Hasan Raheem and Shae Gill, representing the next wave of musical innovation in Pakistan.