Renowned Pakistani music maestro Rahat Fateh Ali Khan has announced a change in management, parting ways with globally acclaimed music and concert producer Salman Ahmed, who managed the musician for 12 years. Rahat Fateh Ali Khan revealed that his Pakistan RFAK company will merge into NRK, which will be managed by his wife Nida Khan, her US-based brother Baqa Burki, his cousin Maroof Ali Khan, Asher Anwar, and Raja Umair Hussain. The decision comes after several issues between Khan and Ahmed, related to family matters, lobbying of music promoters globally, and disputes over live shows.
Also Read: Salim Merchant Unveils ‘Special Bond’ with Rahat Fateh Ali Khan
The press conference in Lahore, where Rahat Fateh Ali Khan made the announcement, was marked by the singer expressing grievances about the previous management company. While he did not name the company, he stated that payments were made without his knowledge and urged clients to make payments only when he personally signs for the receiving end. There are reports of potential litigations arising from the separation.
Salman Ahmed, responding to the allegations, rejected them and emphasized the strong professional relationship he had with Rahat Fateh Ali Khan for over a decade. He mentioned that they had always conducted business through legal means and that he had documentation for every financial transaction. Ahmed also highlighted their successful partnership, contributing to over $22 million worth of international business and a local business of over Rs1.2 billion.
The separation between Rahat Fateh Ali Khan and Salman Ahmed marks the end of a significant chapter in the musician’s career. Under Ahmed’s management, Rahat became a household name, attracting a global audience and earning accolades such as a music doctorate degree from the University of Oxford. The decision to part ways raises questions about the future trajectory of Rahat Fateh Ali Khan’s career and the dynamics of his future projects and collaborations.
