17 Best Urdu Songs of All Time: Urdu Music’s Finest

Now, I don’t usually stray from my regular groove, but today, I’m diving headfirst into the melodious universe of Urdu music.

I’m going to share my top 17 Urdu songs of all time, a blend of timeless classics and modern masterpieces. Why, you ask?

Because music is a universal language, and Urdu songs have a rhythm and poetry that are intoxicatingly unique. This list is my love letter to these masterpieces.

So, let’s shake up our playlists, open our ears, and explore this rich musical heritage together!

Here are the top Urdu tunes that you can check out:

List Of Best Urdu Songs

Best Urdu songs in a list format:

1. ‘Aaj Jaane Ki Zid Na Karo’ by Farida Khanum

‘Aaj Jaane Ki Zid Na Karo’, sung by the legendary Farida Khanum, is an iconic ghazal that has been on repeat for decades. From the album “Farida Khanum In Concert”, this track was released in 1965 under EMI Pakistan. Khanum’s stirring and emotional vocal performance truly sets the standard for how ghazals should be performed. This song is a constant reminder of how music can transcend language and culture. It’s chosen for its timeless lyrics, deep meanings, and the ethereal charm of Khanum’s voice.

2. ‘Tum Ek Gorakh Dhanda Ho’ by Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan

One of the most profound and thought-provoking pieces of music, ‘Tum Ek Gorakh Dhanda Ho’ by Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan, is from the album ‘Gorakh Dhanda’, released in 1989 by Oriental Star Agencies. This song is an exploration of spirituality, faith, and life’s paradoxes. The beauty of this song lies in Khan’s powerful vocal range and the philosophical depth of its lyrics. It has been chosen for its mesmerizing qawwali style and the existential introspection it prompts.

3. ‘Mann Kunto Maula’ by Abida Parveen

The soul-stirring track, ‘Mann Kunto Maula’, from the album “Mystic Sufi”, was delivered by the queen of Sufi music, Abida Parveen, in 1991, released under the record label Saregama. This spiritual rendition is a perfect fusion of traditional Sufi poetry and Parveen’s powerful vocals. Selected for its divine music and the magical aura it creates, this song showcases how music can be a pathway to spirituality.

4. ‘Woh Humsafar Tha’ by Qurat-ul-Ain Balouch (QB)

An entry from this century, ‘Woh Humsafar Tha’, is the title track of the famous drama series ‘Humsafar’, sung by Qurat-ul-Ain Balouch. Released in 2011 under the record label Hum Network, this song blends contemporary style with classical music elements, making it a unique addition to the Urdu music sphere. QB’s melodious voice, coupled with the heartbreaking lyrics, earned this song a spot on the list.

5. ‘Chupke Chupke Raat Din’ by Ghulam Ali

A ghazal that speaks to the soul, ‘Chupke Chupke Raat Din’ is from the album “Awargi” by Ghulam Ali. Released in 1981 under the record label EMI Pakistan, this track is a testament to Ghulam Ali’s mastery of ghazal rendition. The magic of the song lies in its expressive lyrics and mesmerizing musical arrangement, chosen for its emotional depth and soulful delivery.

6. ‘In Se Nain’ by Runa Laila

“In Se Nain” by Runa Laila is a gem from her self-titled album released in 1972 under the label EMI Pakistan. Known for her passionate and vibrant vocals, Runa Laila sets the stage on fire in this track. The playful and romantic lyrics coupled with the high-tempo music make this song an energetic addition to our list.

7. ‘Disco Deewane’ by Nazia Hassan

From the pop music era of the 80s, ‘Disco Deewane’ by Nazia Hassan, from her album “Disco Deewane”, was released in 1981 under the record label Saregama. This catchy song made waves across South Asia and redefined the pop music scene. This song earns its place on this list for being a cultural phenomenon and a game-changer in the music industry.

8. ‘Tajdar-e-Haram’ by Atif Aslam

A fresh and soulful rendition of the classic qawwali, ‘Tajdar-e-Haram’ by Atif Aslam, was released in 2015 in the TV show Coke Studio Season 8. With his unique voice and emotional delivery, Atif Aslam made this song an anthem for the new generation. It is chosen for its fusion of traditional and modern musical elements, earning it a prominent place in Urdu music.

9. ‘Bibi Sanam Janem’ by Zeb and Haniya

This folk-pop fusion, ‘Bibi Sanam Janem’ by Zeb and Haniya, was released in 2008 under Fire Records. This song from their debut album, “Chup,” showcases the duo’s harmonious vocals and the rich Pashto cultural heritage. It earns a spot for its unique style, toe-tapping rhythm, and the beautiful blend of traditional and contemporary sounds.

10. ‘Ranjish Hi Sahi’ by Mehdi Hassan

‘Ranjish Hi Sahi’ by Mehdi Hassan, from the album ‘Kehna Usey’, was released in 1972 under EMI Pakistan. Known as the ‘King of Ghazal’, Mehdi Hassan’s voice is the soul of this classic. This ghazal stands out for its heartbreaking lyrics and the remarkable vocal performance by Mehdi Hassan. It’s chosen for its timeless appeal and the pure essence of ghazal it embodies.

11. ‘Saiyyan’ by Kailash Kher

A beautiful fusion of Sufi lyrics and modern rhythm, ‘Saiyyan’ by Kailash Kher, from the album “Kailasa,” was released in 2006 under Sony Music. Kher’s powerful and rustic voice brings out the deep emotions hidden in the lyrics. Chosen for the rawness of its emotions and its transcendent vocals, this song has a universal appeal.

12. ‘Sammi Meri Waar’ by Umair Jaswal and Quratulain Balouch

‘Sammi Meri Waar’ by Umair Jaswal and Quratulain Balouch is a spirited rendition of a traditional Punjabi song, released in Coke Studio Season 8, 2015. The electrifying chemistry between the artists and their powerful vocals make this folk song come alive. The song earns its place for its raw energy and for reviving a traditional melody in a modern context.

13. ‘Mera Pyar’ by Shuja Haider

A contemporary romantic track, ‘Mera Pyar’ by Shuja Haider, is from the album ‘Balu Mahi’, released in 2017 under Elements Media. The song is a perfect blend of modern beats, classical strings, and Shuja’s soulful voice. It is chosen for its refreshing style and the emotion that the lyrics carry.

14. ‘Dil Dil Pakistan’ by Vital Signs

‘Dil Dil Pakistan’ by Vital Signs from their self-titled album was released in 1987 under EMI Pakistan. This patriotic song resonates with every Pakistani and is known as the second national anthem. The upbeat music and inspiring lyrics make this song an unforgettable part of the Urdu music landscape.

15. ‘Lagi Bina/Chal Mele Noon Challiye’ by Saieen Zahoor & Sanam Marvi

An enchanting Sufi fusion, ‘Lagi Bina/Chal Mele Noon Challiye’ by Saieen Zahoor & Sanam Marvi, was released in Coke Studio Season 9, 2016. The song is a beautiful blend of folk melody and Sufi poetry. The passionate vocals of the singers make this song a spiritual experience and hence its place on the list.

16. ‘Aitebar’ by Vital Signs

Another gem from the band Vital Signs, ‘Aitebar’, is from their album “Vital Signs 2”, released in 1989 under EMI Pakistan. The soft rock music combined with Junaid Jamshed’s deep and soulful voice makes this song a classic of the 90s. This track earns its spot for its enduring popularity and the nostalgia it evokes.

17. ‘Afreen Afreen’ by Rahat Fateh Ali Khan & Momina Mustehsan

A modern take on a classic, ‘Afreen Afreen’ by Rahat Fateh Ali Khan & Momina Mustehsan, was released in Coke Studio Season 9, 2016. The song is a delightful mix of Khan’s strong vocals and Mustehsan’s sweet voice. It was chosen for its ability to redefine a classic song while preserving the original’s spirit.

Fun Facts: Best Urdu Songs of All Time

‘Aaj Jaane Ki Zid Na Karo’ by Farida Khanum

Fun Fact: This soulful ghazal was not originally sung by Farida Khanum. It was written and composed by Fayyaz Hashmi and Sohail Rana, respectively, and was first sung by Habib Wali Muhammad. Khanum’s version, however, gained more popularity and has since been covered by various artists globally.

‘Tum Ek Gorakh Dhanda Ho’ by Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan

Fun Fact: Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan was a maestro of the Qawwali genre, a musical tradition that dates back over 700 years. Interestingly, the term ‘Gorakh Dhanda’, used in the title, is a complex Urdu phrase. It’s often used to describe a situation so complicated that it’s hard to find a way out.

‘Disco Deewane’ by Nazia Hassan

Fun Fact: Nazia Hassan, fondly known as the “Queen of Pop” in South Asia, was only 15 when she recorded this iconic track. “Disco Deewane” was a record-breaking album, becoming the best-selling Asian pop record at the time.

‘Tajdar-e-Haram’ by Atif Aslam

Fun Fact: Atif Aslam’s rendition of ‘Tajdar-e-Haram’ on Coke Studio became the first video from Pakistan to cross one hundred million views on YouTube. The original song is a classic qawwali composed by the famous Sabri Brothers.

‘In Se Nain’ by Runa Laila

Fun Fact: This song is a part of the timeless repertoire of Runa Laila who holds the record for being the first Asian singer to have a sell-out concert at London’s Albert Hall.

‘Sammi Meri Waar’ by Umair Jaswal and Quratulain Balouch

Fun Fact: While many appreciate this track for its engaging rhythm and folk touch, not everyone knows that ‘Sammi Meri Waar’ is a traditional Punjabi folk song. The song has been performed by many folk artists over generations, each adding their unique flavor to it.

‘Dil Dil Pakistan’ by Vital Signs

Fun Fact: The song ‘Dil Dil Pakistan’, fondly called the unofficial national anthem of Pakistan, was originally written as a ballad. It was Junaid Jamshed’s idea to make it a more upbeat track, which eventually contributed significantly to its popularity.

‘Afreen Afreen’ by Rahat Fateh Ali Khan & Momina Mustehsan

Fun Fact: The original ‘Afreen Afreen’ was sung by Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan, Rahat’s uncle, and a legend of Qawwali music. The rendition by Rahat Fateh Ali Khan & Momina Mustehsan included an additional verse, which was not part of the original song.

And that’s the end of our melodious journey through the lanes of Urdu music. From timeless ghazals to soulful Sufi renditions to modern masterpieces, we’ve danced our way through the best. This is DJ TBone signing off, hoping that these songs have resonated with you just as they have with me.

Thanks for reading.

TBone