Natasha Baig has always aimed high, and aspired to be what she describes as “an extraordinary performer on stage.” Whilst the road has been windy and obstacle ridden, the privilege of having a platform to perform on has not gone unnoticed. Natasha is passionate about using her stage to convey important messages and the adversity she has faced continues to fuel her fire.
“As an artist in a country like Pakistan, every day presents a challenge, especially where art is still underappreciated,” she explains. On top of this, “being a female artist adds even more obstacles to navigate.” However, these obstacles were not going to deter the musician: her way of coping with the frustrations of her journey was to just create more music. She continued her journey of turning passion into a career and discovered what helped maintain her focus and discipline.
“My faith in Allah and belief in myself have helped me overcome every challenge,” Natasha also confided. “One of my biggest initial challenges was becoming the first-ever female singer from Hunza Valley.” What presented itself as a struggle was also an incredible milestone. She endured criticisms, including from those close to her, but eventually emerged stronger and has quickly become a renowned Pakistani singer and songwriter.
Through her increased confidence, Natasha has discovered what makes her unique as a performer. “I try to listen to the audience and put my own flavour into my work and bring a mix of both where I’m happy and the audience is happy too.”
Natasha has continued evolving as an artist, discovering ways to use her platform to spread meaningful messages. Featuring on the popular Coke Studio made her realise there were more depths of her artistry to explore. “When I performed Shikwa Jawab-e-Shikwa, it dawned on me that I now carried a significant responsibility as an artist—to offer something meaningful.”
Her dedication towards this remains strong. A few of Natasha’s well-known songs are her recent single, Oh Yaara, a heartfelt melody about misplaced trust. In honour of the Diamond Jubilee in 2017, Natasha performed Ya Maula which also gained her significant recognition. Additionally, in 2017 the artist was nominated for a Lux Style Award for her song Jhoom Le featuring in the movie Janaan. Earlier this year, Natasha had the incredible opportunity to sing her country’s national anthem at the Pakistan Super League Opening.
Natasha continues to stand by wanting to deliver meaningful content. “I want to spread a message of love and peace,” she says. In the future, she explains her goal is “to promote tolerance and highlight all the good that exists in the world.”
Despite the difficulties she has faced, Natasha remains an inspiration to continue pursuing one’s dreams, regardless of what might be thrown your way. As she aptly outlines, “life is still filled with hurdles, but without them, what would life be?”
