Pakistani songwriter and guitarist Aamir Zaki passed away on Friday after suffering cardiac arrest, his family confirmed to Geo News. He was aged 49.
Aamir's brother Shahid Zaki told Pakistani media that he was ailing for quite some time. He will be laid to rest at the Steel Town graveyard in Karachi on Saturday.
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Aamir began his career in the music industry when he was just 14. Pakistani singer Alamgir, who is one of the pioneers of Urdu pop music, discovered Aamir. Later, Alamgir got in touch with Aamir for his tour in different countries, including India, Dubai, England and the US.
During his career, Aamir also joined Vital Signs rock band as the lead guitarist in 1994 for a brief period. In 1995, he released his debut solo album, Signature, from the same album that had his most popular song, Mera Pyaar.
Watch the song Mera Pyaar below:
Aamir, who is considered one of the most influential guitarists of the nation, made his Coke Studio debut in 2014.
Watch his Coke Studio Season 7 performance below:
Several celebrities, including a former member of Vital Signs, paid tribute to Aamir. "I must say that he was the most talented guitarist I ever came across in Pakistan. Not just as a musician, but even as a person, he was likeable and humble," Vital Signs alumnus and guitarist Asad Ahmed told The Express Tribune.
"We have been honoured to play with him several times. He was such a great mentor and a great person to hang out with as well, and it's just sad to hear this news," Fuzon band member Imran Momina said.
Mahira Khan tweeted: One of the first people I met in this industry.. the best conversations.. what an artist!! Rest In Peace genius #AmirZaki
Bilal Khan tweeted: life's so short - RIP #AmirZaki arguably the best guitar player from Pakistan
Humaima Malick tweeted: #AmirZaki you'll be missed, loved and cherished
