Goher Mumtaz

Goher Mumtaz is a Pakistani musician, singer-songwriter, composer, guitarist and actor. Born in Lahore on 27 July 1983, he serves as the founder and lead guitarist of the renowned rock band Jal. His creative work encompasses lyrics, melodic structures and rhythmic arrangements.

Early life and education

Mumtaz began his musical journey as a young child. He first trained on a small keyboard received as a birthday gift. He later showed immense dedication to his craft. At the age of 11, he sold his bike to purchase his first guitar. This investment marked the start of his professional ambitions.

He lacks formal musical training. Instead, he spent incalculable hours teaching himself how to play the guitar, compose melodies and write songs. His songwriting is driven by personal and social themes. He seeks a balance between lyrical content and rhythm.

Career

Mumtaz met Atif Aslam while they were college fellows. The two musicians frequently performed together at college concerts. They eventually decided to form a band and released the song "Aadat" on the Internet. Mumtaz wrote and composed this track, while Aslam provided the vocals. The single became a massive hit across the subcontinent. Radio and TV stations began playing the song extensively.

Following the success of "Aadat," the duo officially named their band Jal. They performed numerous concerts as a pair. When Atif Aslam left the group to pursue a solo career, Mumtaz restructured the band. He recruited Farhan Saeed for vocals and Amir Sheraz on bass. This new lineup released the studio album Aadat in 2003. The album achieved significant success in both Pakistan and India.

Jal continued their momentum with the release of the album Boondh in 2007. The band also performed two songs during season 4 of Coke Studio Pakistan. In 2011, Farhan Saeed departed due to personal differences. Mumtaz subsequently took on the role of lead vocalist and added Saad Sultan as lead guitarist. This iteration of the band released the album Pyass in 2013. The album received nominations for best album of the year at both the Hum Awards and the Lux Style Awards.

Mumtaz has also ventured into acting. He made his big screen debut as a guest actor in the film Lahore Se Aagey. He appeared alongside Ali Zafar in this production. His musical influence extends to global brands as well. He became the first brand ambassador for the Gibson Guitar Corporation in the subcontinent.

Personal life

Mumtaz is married to Anum Ahmed. They wed in 2016. Ahmed is an actress who made her debut in the 2016 Hum TV drama Kathputli alongside him. She also maintains an interest in filmmaking.

Awards and recognition

The band Jal won various awards following the success of their 2003 album. Their 2007 release, Boondh, also earned them multiple accolades. The 2013 album Pyass received nominations at the Lux Style Awards and the Hum Awards.