Khalid

Khalid (1963/1964 – 18 March 2024), born Khalid Anwar Saifullah, was a Bangladeshi singer and one of the pioneers of Bangladeshi pop music in the 1980s and 1990s. Hailing from Gopalganj, he began his musical career in 1981, inspired by legendary singer Bhupen Hazarika’s songs "Ganga Amar Ma" and "Padma Amar Ma".

Early life and career As a child, Khalid won a gold medal in an Azan competition in Gopalganj. During his university years at Dhaka University, he collaborated with artists like Fahmida Nabi and recorded duets such as "Ghumao Tumi Ghumao Re Jaan". Chime's breakthrough came with the 1987 hit song "Nati Khati Bela Gelo", which became a generational anthem.

He was known for beginning rehearsals with an emotionally resonant Azan, praised by his bandmates as "ethereal".

Solo career Khalid also gained popularity as a solo artist, with hit songs such as "Shorolotar Protima", "Jodi Himaloy Hoye", "Kono Karonei", "Tumi Nei Tai", and "Akashtake". He collaborated extensively with composer Prince Mahmud on various mixed albums that shaped Bangladesh's pop-rock sound in the 1990s.

Legacy Khalid is widely regarded as a foundational figure in modern Bangladeshi pop music. His songs continue to be celebrated, and fellow musicians have called for preserving and promoting his musical legacy for future generations.