Renowned Pakistani playback singer Humera Channa has stated that the growing culture of nepotism and favoritism in the country’s music industry is slowly but surely damaging its very roots.
‘This situation is certainly sad, but it is the reality,” she said, stressing that the music industry must move toward inclusivity and prioritize genuine talent over personal connections.
Speaking during a recent podcast, Humira Channa said that the industry has increasingly confined opportunities to a small circle of preferred names, while many talented and seasoned singers continue to be ignored.
She remarked that favoritism has become common practice, with producers repeatedly working with the same artists and pushing others into the background.
The veteran singer acknowledged that she herself has been affected by this trend.
Reflecting on the treatment of legendary artists, Humira Channa noted that they are often praised in words but neglected in practice. ‘People call you a legend, but no one thinks whether these legends actually have work,’ she said.
She added that appreciation often comes too late, either after an artist has passed away or when someone returns from abroad and is suddenly celebrated as a star.
It was worth mentioned that Humira Channa rose to prominence in the 1990s through her powerful playback singing in Pakistani films. She is a recipient of the prestigious Nigar Award and has also earned acclaim for presenting folk and Sufi poetry, including the works of renowned poet Shah Abdul Latif Bhittai, on Pakistan Television.
