A History of Qayaas

Formation and Rise to Fame (2008–2010)

Qayaas emerged from the vibrant music scene of Islamabad, Pakistan in 2008, founded by the visionary lead guitarist Khurram Waqar. The band's lineup solidified with the addition of powerhouse vocalist Umair Jaswal, along with talented musicians Sarmad Abdul Ghafoor, Shaheryar Ghayas, and Salman 'Fifu' Rafique. With a unique blend of progressive rock and alternative metal, Qayaas quickly made waves with their single 'Tanha' in 2009, captivating audiences and earning a cult following.

Building on their early success, Qayaas released the impactful song 'Umeed' and continued to showcase their musical prowess through electrifying performances. The band's dedication to their craft and innovative sound caught the attention of critics and fans alike, setting the stage for their meteoric rise to fame in the Pakistani music scene.

Debut Album and International Recognition (2011)

In 2011, Qayaas reached new heights with the release of their debut studio album 'Uss Paar'. Recorded at Root Gate Studios and released by BIY Records, the album received critical acclaim and solidified the band's position as pioneers of progressive rock in Pakistan. Tracks like 'Pukaar' showcased Qayaas' ability to blend powerful music with meaningful lyrics, resonating with audiences worldwide.

The success of 'Uss Paar' catapulted Qayaas onto the international stage, earning them a coveted invitation to perform at the prestigious SXSW music festival in America. With their innovative sound and captivating live shows, Qayaas proved that they were a force to be reckoned with in the global music scene.

Awards and Recognition (2010)

Qayaas' groundbreaking music and electrifying performances garnered them numerous awards and accolades, including the prestigious 'Best Rock Band' award at the Rolling Stones-Jack Daniels awards in 2010. The band's song 'Inquilaab' also made waves internationally, reaching the Semi Finals of the International Songwriting Competition (ISC) among thousands of entries from around the world.

By pushing the boundaries of progressive rock and alternative metal, Qayaas solidified their place as trailblazers in the music industry, inspiring a new generation of musicians to explore innovative sounds and fearless creativity.

Qayaas' legacy as a pioneering force in Pakistani progressive rock and alternative metal endures, with their groundbreaking music and fearless creativity continuing to influence and inspire musicians worldwide. Their unique blend of powerful lyrics and electrifying performances has left an indelible mark on the metal scene, cementing their status as legends in the music industry.