When Pakistan’s most celebrated director takes on music, the outcome is destined to be remarkable. Velo Sound Station’s third season proved just that, as Bilal Lashari, the filmmaker behind some of the country’s most memorable visuals, transformed the platform into something more than a music show. It became a musicverse.
From the very first note, it was clear that this season was distinct. Instead of sticking to tradition, it aimed to forge a new identity. While Coke Studio has long been tied to the “national sound,” Velo Sound Station’s third installment drew a bold new line. The music had a global and daring energy, while the visuals featured neon colors, advanced VFX, and futuristic sets designed for the Instagram generation. Each performance unfolded like a short film, demanding attention from both the ears and the eyes.
The lineup also contributed to its impact. Established names like Young Stunners, Atif Aslam, and Fawad Khan returned to showcase their lasting appeal, yet the true strength lay in the mix of icons with emerging voices. Fawad Khan’s return brought a wave of nostalgia, while new acts pushed boundaries with fearless experimentation. A rap and qawwali fusion underscored the platform’s willingness to innovate in a way that few others could attempt.
Beyond the individual performances, this was a broader cultural statement. VSS3 was not simply about producing tracks but about reshaping contemporary music culture in Pakistan. It served as a reminder that the country’s sound does not need to be confined to safety or nostalgia. It can be bold, cinematic, and unapologetically current. In doing so, it didn’t compete with Coke Studio but instead carved its own unique and prominent path.
Bilal Lashari created the stage, the artists brought the energy, and together they redefined what a music season could be.
