Pakistani singer and composer Humail Rajpoot recently took to Instagram to express disbelief and disappointment at Gen Z’s apparent unfamiliarity with iconic Indian playback singer Shaan.
In the video, Humail is passionately defending Shaan’s legacy and criticizing the younger generation’s lack of musical knowledge.
Humail recounted an event where he was asked about his favourite singer, where he mentioned Shaan, only to be met with the question: “Who is Shaan?” He said he was shocked and responded by singing some of Shaan’s notable songs, including Kash Ek Din Aisa Bhi Aaye from the film Showbiz and the title track from Don.
“If I start singing his songs, we’ll still be here tomorrow,” Humail said agitatedly. “Beta, itni aap ki umar nahi jitney ganay hain Shaan ke (You’re not even as old as the number of songs Shaan has sung). What sort of kids are they?”
In the caption, Humail further expressed his frustration: “Disturbed to my core. Had to make a reel and share with all of you! I honestly don’t have anything against new singers. I really enjoy new music but when it comes to singers, these guys need a lot of knowledge! How are they satisfied going in front of a mic with vocals so heavily treated and tuned?”
Humail also used the post as a reminder about the importance of respecting artists, particularly those who have laid the foundation of modern music: “This video is for awareness that artists deserve respect, and legends deserve each and everything.”
Shaan himself responded to the video with a heartfelt comment featuring a red heart emoji and the joined hands emoji, a gesture of gratitude and mutual respect.
Shaan, born Shantanu Mukherjee, is widely regarded as one of India’s most versatile and beloved playback singers. Dubbed the “Golden Voice of India,” his career spans decades with a repertoire that includes timeless hits such as Chand Sifarish, Aaj Unse Milna Hai, Deewangi Deewangi, Behti Hawa Sa Tha Woh, Chaar Kadam, Dus Bahane, and Main Hoon Don, among many others.
He has also hosted several music-based reality shows and remains a respected figure in the Indian music industry.