Hasan Raheem and Faheem Abdullah have emerged as two of the most compelling voices in the evolving landscape of South Asian independent music, each carving a distinct identity through innovation and cross-cultural appeal.
Hasan Raheem, a Pakistani artist with a medical degree, blends smooth R&B, hip-hop, and indie pop with effortless charm. His music, marked by catchy Urdu hooks and mellow rhythms, has earned him recognition not only across Pakistan but also internationally. Rolling Stone India spotlighted his role in Nayel’s 2025 music video “Roop” and his collaboration with Indian electronic producer Ritviz on “Mehrbaan,” signaling his growing influence across borders.
On the other hand, Faheem Abdullah, an Indian singer-songwriter and filmmaker from Kashmir, offers a more introspective and experimental sound. His debut album Lost;Found was exclusively streamed by Rolling Stone India in 2024, featuring a blend of dream pop, blues, Sufi rock, and Kashmiri folk. With poetic lyricism and a cinematic sensibility, Faheem has cultivated a reputation for pushing creative boundaries while honoring cultural roots.
Though Rolling Stone has not yet featured a joint profile of the two, both artists are redefining what it means to be indie musicians from South Asia—bridging tradition and modernity, local sound and global influence.