Quratulain Balouch – The mystical folk charm from Coke Studio, Season 4

Mesmerizing vocals, gorgeous looks and a down to earth nature. This is not a regular one-song pop-star of the present era. In a relatively short period of time, Quratulain Balouch (popularly known as QB) has established herself as a trendsetter. A trendsetter who intends to stay and promote the most appealing part of the eastern culture – The Folk Music.

So, who is this girl anyway and where did she suddenly appear from? Youth Correspondent tried to uncover more of what she has yet to tell others on a one-on-one session with QB.

Happy Reading!

1. What’s your Date of Birth and Zodiac Sign?
   4th March 1988 – Pisces.
2. How many siblings are you?
   Well we are 3 siblings! I am the eldest one, then a sister and the youngest, a brother. Both of them are busy achieving their goals in life.
3. Where have you completed your education from?
   I have done my Bachelors from George Mason University, DC.
4. What’s your favourite food?
   Daal Chawal and Palak Paneer.
5. Your favourite colour?
   Black.
6. One thing you cannot live without?
   My iPod.
7. Something you hate the most?
   Waiting….
8. Something you’re very conscious about?
   My hair!
9. What was the last book you read?
   Love’s Choices by Penny Jordan.
10. Three words that describe you?
    Compatible, Passionate and Propitious.
11. Gatherings you like the most?
    Anywhere I can find down to earth people.
12. Your biggest fear?
    To be all about myself.
13. Two songs on your cell phone’s playlist that you listen very often to?
    Yaar ko Humne – by Abida Parveen and Open Arms – by Gary Go.
14. How do you make your Sundays’ special?
    If I ever realize its Sunday….
15. Any celebrity crushes?
    “Neal” from White Collar.
16. Something you’d like to change about Pakistan?
    The President! LOL
17. Do you have any interest other than music to pursue in life?
    Not for now.
18. What was it like to be invited and to have performed at Coke Studio? Please share your experience.
    I was very honored when I was being approached for CS because I considered myself a new comer and getting a shot for CS right away was firstly little shocking and over-whelming and secondly I beared in mind that it will be quite a big learning process for me since I am just taking off with my career and thanks to Jal and Rohail Hyatt for believing in me. The house band was amazing, admirably welcoming and co-operative. I had alot of fun as well. One of the best experiences in my life.
19. What encouraged you to choose folk music over other genres?
    First of all it compliments my voice and second folk genre is soulful.
20. How has the response been over the tribute song ‘Akhiyan Nu Raen De’?
    Oh the best thing ever happened to me! The cover fixed my Identity. Response was *KILLING* I must say.
21. When can we expect your album?
    iA end of this year with the grace of Allah Almighty.
22. Who are your inspirations?
    My mom and Reshma Ji.
23. If you could perform with anyone, in the future, who would that be?
    Strings and Rahat Fateh Ali Khan.
24. What’s your favorite song to belt out in the car?
    Jalebi Bai! LOL just kidding! ahmm… Any song by Pitbull.
25. Ten years from now, you will be…
    I dont plan. I go with the flow. Because I believe God has better plans for me than what I would plan for myself.
26. Do you write the lyrics of your songs and what influences you the most?
    Yes I do sometimes and my life is a better influence for it.
27. Do you deem yourself a better live artist or a studio musician?
    Oh I LOVE Performing Live. Makes me ALIVE all over again.
28. You’re labeled as the Meesha Shafi of Coke Studio Season 4, how do you feel about it?
    Well I would not like to be compared but I’ll take it as a compliment. ( :) )
29. Your message to your fans/the youth?
    One thing I always wanna tell the youngsters of this country; Appreciate what you have. Try to set goals and TRY focusing. I hate it when I hear young kids talking rubble about how their life sucks and how this country has nothing to offer but trust me this is your country, OUR country and we are here just because of Pakistan and Pakistan is here just because of you, us! and YES! How can I forget, THANK YOU for the unconditional love and support! And I mean it when  I say, I am nothing without your love and appreciation.
30. Alas, we couldn’t resist asking this – What would you like to say about your experience with Youth Correspondent?
    Love the space of questions I was given! Felt Free. LOL. Keep it up and Good Luck.