Meet Hareem Rashid, a multifaceted talent who embarked on her journey during the challenging times of the COVID era. Initially pursuing a degree in International Relations, Hareem seamlessly transitioned into the realm of Media Studies for her master’s, demonstrating her versatility and passion for diverse fields.
What sets Hareem apart is her musical prowess, which she has cultivated over the past five years. Starting as a budding artist, her breakthrough came when one of her songs went viral on platforms like Instagram and TikTok. This success propelled her to launch her own YouTube channel, where she showcases a blend of cover songs and original compositions. Among her notable projects are hits like “Pathar Dil,” “Dil Hariyan,” and “Scar” “Aag” each resonating with a growing audience.
Hareem Rashid’s talent extends beyond her captivating voice; she’s making waves with upcoming tracks and exciting collaborations with fellow artists, renowned brands, and platforms like Spotify. As she navigates the intersection of academia and music, Hareem Rashid stands as a testament to emerging talent, captivating listeners with her unique musical creativity. Keep an eye on this rising star as she continues to make waves in the music industry.
Hello Hareem! For those who still don’t know you, could you tell us a bit more about yourself, your background?
I’m a singer, composer, and lyricist. My musical journey started during school and college, where I performed passionately. Amid the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, I began sharing my music online during my BS in International Relations.The response was incredible, leading me to release original tracks like ‘Pathar Dil,’ ‘Scars,’ ‘Dil Hariyaan,’ and ‘Nah Keh Diya.’ Currently, I’m working on exciting collaborations and new originals.Outside of music, I’m pursuing my MS in Media Studies at Bahria University. I’ve also ventured into entrepreneurship with my online platform ‘New Grid’.
Can you take us back to the beginning of your musical journey? How did you discover your passion for music?
I’ve been singing since I could speak, spending my school and college days on stage, even leading the Singing Society. When COVID hit, I used the time at home to teach myself the guitar and share my music online. The response was beyond expectations, and since then, my musical journey has been unstoppable. Music, for me, is not just a creative outlet; it’s the fuel for my emotions, allowing me to connect with others on a profound level
Your breakthrough came when one of your songs went viral on platforms like Instagram and TikTok. Can you share the story behind that moment and how it impacted your musical career?
It happened on TikTok and Instagram. With zero music background, I thought, why not share my stuff online? And boom, some short covers on TikTok went viral. The feedback was insane, and suddenly, I had this growing audience. It wasn’t just about likes; it was about people vibing with my music. That vibe gave me the courage to stand up for my passion, even with my family. That moment on social media? It wasn’t just a boost; it was the green light to fully dive into this music journey of mine.
Launching your own YouTube channel was a significant step. How do you curate the content on your channel, and how would you describe your musical style to those who may be discovering your work?
launching my YouTube was a total game-changer. Started with me and my guitar doing some covers, and now I’ve thrown in my own tracks. The channel got so much love; I even snagged a silver play button. Oh, and peeps wanted vlogs, so I dropped a couple in there to spice it up. It’s mainly about the tunes, the covers, and the tracks I’m putting my heart into.
“Pathar Dil,” “Dil Hariyan,” and “Scar” are some of your notable projects. Can you shed light on the inspiration behind these songs and the creative process involved in bringing them to life?
“Pathar Dil’’: Got this ukulele as a birthday gift, hit my rooftop to play it for the first time, and bam—’Pathar Dil’ was born. I wanted something ‘ME,’ a peek into the life of an average girl acting strong but really just wanting love.
“Aag”: This fiery track is a departure into a more intense energy. In “Aag,” I personify myself as fire, conveying a sense of control and danger. The lyrics express a solo and ruthless nature, highlighting the strength that comes from within. The creative process? Think intense vibes and a beat that matches the heat.
“Scars”: Time for the feels. “Scars” was literally the first ever song I wrote. It is the soundtrack for heartbreak warriors. Crafting this one meant diving deep into the sadness, wrapping it up in lyrics, and topping it with a melody that hits you right in the gut.
“Dil Hariyan”: ‘Dil Hariyan’ is all about that rollercoaster where when you’re into someone, but they’re just chillin. The lyrics spill the beans on the heart-flutters, and the melody? Well, it’s as unpredictable as love. Just like that.
What can your fans expect from your upcoming tracks, and are there any exciting collaborations in the pipeline with fellow artists, brands, or platforms?
There is some cool stuff in my upcoming tracks! Been working on some original tunes with awesome producers, trying out different vibes to keep it interesting. Got some exciting collaborations in the works with fellow artists and all. Also Spotify Equal chose me as an ambassador, and you might spot my face on NY Times Square soon, pretty surreal!
Balancing academia and a thriving music career is no small feat. How do you manage to navigate these two worlds, and do you find any synergy between your academic pursuits and musical creativity?
Juggling the academic hustle and a music career is definitely a challenge, but I’ve always been a smarty pants. Back in school, I was that kid acing exams while diving into all the co-curricular activities. It’s the secret sauce and that is good grades. My parents were cool with my music journey because of that. I’ve always been into reading since I was a kid, and that love for learning keeps my intellect sharp. Balancing both worlds comes down to productivity and interest. If you’re into what you’re doing, you can pretty much conquer anything.
Who are your musical influences, and how have they shaped your approach to creating music?
My music taste is like a mixed tape, pulling from all corners. From the soulful ghazals of Jagjeet Singh and Ghulam Ali, to the golden era of Bollywood with legends like Kishore Kumar and Lata Mangeshkar, all thanks to our reliable VCR. Then there was the Disney phase, where Demi Lovato, Selena Gomez, Taylor Swift, and Miley Cyrus took over my playlist. Demi, especially, still gets me in the feels. It’s not about mimicking a specific artist; it’s this broad musical journey that seeps into my creative process.
Social media played a pivotal role in your success. How do you think platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube have changed the landscape for emerging musicians, and what advice do you have for aspiring artists looking to make a mark online?
Absolutely, social media has been a game-changer for me. Platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube offer a sea of opportunities, especially for someone like me with no musical background or local connections. They’ve given me a chance to be heard on a global scale. For aspiring artists, my advice is to evolve with them, connect with your audience, and stay true to your unique style. Here’s a golden rule: nobody who’s gained recognition on these platforms got lucky. It’s all about consistency and staying motivated, no matter what. Success might take time, but if you’re passionate and consistent, nothing can stand in your way.
As your fan base continues to grow, what message do you have for your supporters, and how do they contribute to your artistic journey?
Big shoutout to my online family, this isn’t just a fan base; it’s a family. Each one of you is the reason I’m where I am today, and I genuinely thank you for pushing me to be better. On those off days, a quick peek into my DMs fills my heart with love. Your messages overwhelm me with warmth and give me the motivation to get up and do what you all support me for. Massive love to each and every one of you; you’re the heartbeat of my artistic journey.
Can you walk us through your creative process when working on a new song, from initial inspiration to the final production?
Every time is a unique journey. Sometimes, it starts with a raw emotion I’m going through—I hold onto that feeling and craft a composition around it, adding the lyrics. Other times, I might stumble upon a music track that sparks inspiration, and I build the song based on someone else’s situation. The next step is collaborating with different music producers who can carry the vibe of that track to its full potential.
What challenges have you faced in the music industry, and how have you overcome them?
I feel like the music industry of Pakistan hasn’t developed yet. All the emerging new artists are using social media for their music. We all know there is no music education here or in-fact there are no music institutes so when I started my journey, I had to do it all on my own starting from literally scratch but Thank God for the internet and social media platforms which connected me to music communities and I got the guidance I needed. To develop understanding of things
Among your own songs, do you have a favorite to perform? If so, what makes it special to you?
I think ‘Pathar Dil” has been the closest to my heart as that song is just “ME”.
If you could collaborate with any artist, dead or alive, who would it be and why?
Demi Lovato because she has always been kinda my inspiration.
How do you approach live performances, and what do you enjoy most about connecting with your audience in a live setting?
I love performing live, a passion that goes back to my school days. The connection with the audience is everything for me. The energy, the adrenaline, and that incredible feeling when the crowd sings along, it’s pure magic. That shared experience is what makes live performances so special and memorable
What advice would you give to aspiring musicians who are just starting their journey in the industry?
Two key words: “patience” and “consistency.” In this journey, it’s crucial to keep a thick skin and stay humble. Showing gratitude is essential; what you have today can easily be taken away, so appreciate every step of the way.
If you could collaborate with any artist, dead or alive, who would it be and why?
Demi Lovato because she has always been kinda my inspiration.
How do you approach live performances, and what do you enjoy most about connecting with your audience in a live setting?
I love performing live, a passion that goes back to my school days. The connection with the audience is everything for me. The energy, the adrenaline, and that incredible feeling when the crowd sings along, it’s pure magic. That shared experience is what makes live performances so special and memorable
What advice would you give to aspiring musicians who are just starting their journey in the industry?
Two key words: “patience” and “consistency.” In this journey, it’s crucial to keep a thick skin and stay humble. Showing gratitude is essential; what you have today can easily be taken away, so appreciate every step of the way.
Beyond your vocals, do you play any musical instruments, and if so, how do they contribute to your compositions?
Started with teaching myself guitar, now own a ukulele and keyboard. While not a pro, they add depth to my compositions. “Scars” was born on the guitar, and “Pathar Dil” on the ukulele.
What is one of your favorite memories or moments from your musical career so far?
Singing the OST for the ARY digital TV drama “Wo Pagal Si” was a standout experience. The drama was trending, and the love I received for the song was overwhelming. From that high to receiving a silver play button on YouTube and being chosen as Spotify’s Equal Ambassador of the Month, each step in my journey has been filled with unforgettable moments.
Do you sing in the shower? What songs?
Who doesn’t? LOL. “heart attack” by Demi Lovato.
Looking back, how do you reflect on your success, and what lessons have you learned along the way?
It’s been an overwhelming journey, and I’ve learned that good intentions and hard work truly pay off. One crucial lesson I’ve embraced is that creating art is not just about reaching the goal; it’s equally about enjoying the journey. If you’re not savoring the process, you’re doing it wrong.
The COVID era has been challenging for many. How did the pandemic impact your artistry, and did it shape your approach to creating music?
Honestly, it was a breakthrough for me. The pandemic provided a rare opportunity for self-reflection and spending time with myself, a luxury often missed in normal routine life. As people turned to social media for connection, I utilized that time to showcase my talent online. The pandemic became a turning point, giving me the platform to share my art and connect with a broader audience
What are your long-term aspirations as a musician, and where do you see your musical journey taking you in the future?
Honestly, I just want to keep making music that people can connect with. It’s all about the vibes and emotions. As for the future, I’m leaving that to life, wherever the melody takes me.
How do you maintain a connection with your fans, and what role do they play in influencing your artistic decisions?
I feel like the music industry of Pakistan hasn’t developed yet. All the emerging new artists are using social media for their music. We all know there is no music education here or in-fact there are no music institutes so when I started my journey, I had to do it all on my own starting from literally scratch but Thank God for the internet and social media platforms which connected me to music communities and I got the guidance I needed. To develop understanding of things.
