Music is known as the universal language that preserves and showcases cultural traditions and languages. Similarly, history records that Balochistan is the only state where thousands of songs have been sung, creating a sense of unity and breaking boundaries among Balochs cross-culturally.

Communicating lyrically to hearts, Baloch singers are masters in soothing it with their rhythmic voices. Their contribution to promoting Balochi culture is always appreciated. Some renowned vocalists from Makuran division include Noorkhan Bezanjo, Shanjan Dawoodi, and Arif Baloch, who hold inspiring stories.

Noorkhan Bezanjo, son of Ghulam Sarwar Bezanjo, was a singer, instrumentalist, and poet from Pasni district, Gwadar. Born on December 4th, 1969, in Pasni, he completed his school education and later moved to Karachi for his high school. He acquired a master’s degree in Fine Arts from Balochistan University Quetta, becoming the first singer to hold a master’s degree in Balochi singers’ history.

Noorkhan’s interest in music led him to take classes from Abdul Sattar Baloch and Walim Baloch, who were idolized musicologists at the time. He also joined Ustad Omar Baloch’s club and embarked on his musical journey. Witnessing his rapid progress, his educators were amazed. Noorkhan released his first album, Sherkani Yaad (Lovely Memories), for which he was widely recognized as a leading performer.

However, despite his exceptional voice, Noorkhan faced disappointment when his songs didn’t reach a wider audience. Undeterred, he continued singing and received many poetries to sing. His breakthrough hit came when he sang “Zaheerani-Raazan” (Memories’ Secrets) by Mubarak Qazi. This song engaged a large audience and emerged as an admired and enduring song for Balochs.

Tragically, Noorkhan’s life was cut short on August 5, 2003. His legacy lives on, and every Baloch around the globe still holds the same love for his voice.

Another singer worth considering alongside the vocalists of Makuran division is Arif Baloch. He was born in Turbat district, Kech, and is currently living in Kushkalat. Arif’s singing career began accidentally when he contributed to a nasheed performance in a mosque. His friends, Rahman Tulla Shohaz and Waja Dost Muhammad, supported him, and he began learning music from Sattar Balochi.

Arif released his first album, “Zebi-e-Shapi” (Beautiful Night), and “Jambar-Sharaab-Noshi” (Clouds Sip Celestial Wine) by Mubarak Qazi. He also sang and composed songs of his favorite poet, Shohaz. With his melodious voice, he has taken a place in the hearts of Balochs.

Shahjan Dawoodi, from Turbat district, Kech, is another renowned singer. His father, Lal Baksk Dawoodi, is a well-known Balochi poet. Shahjan’s interest in music began in childhood, and he decided to study music instead of pursuing formal education. He was motivated by Arif Baloch and Noorkhan Bezanjo and made his way to Karachi to study music.

Shahjan’s first song, “Wafa-e-Dushag-e-Nama,” was released in 2001 and became a hit. Poets started approaching him for their work, and he sang many songs, including “Mni Hamarh Mna Go Pada Bar.” His contributions to advocating Balochi culture in terms of music are always cherished.

These singers have encouraged emerging singers to spotlight their talent. Folks like Bebager Ahmad, Mubarak Dad, and Waseem Baloch are influencers of these legends and future coming idols from Makuran division.