Setting the tone with a layered Spanish guitar soundscape with a textured ad lib and and immersive beat, Himmat Singh and Betu open their collaborative single, a cover of the iconic Punjabi song AKH KASHNI, with a divine vocal from Betu and a dimensional and refined energy from Himmat Singh‘s exquisite production.
Speaking on the release of AKH KASHNI, Himmat confesses, “The song is a playful old Punjabi folk song, now modernized, talking through the ups and downs of marriage the people the bride has to deal with.”
The song itself narrates the emotional turmoil of a woman. The phrase “ek meri akh kashni” metaphorically expresses her being partially blinded by love, indicating her deep affection and obsession. The sleepless nights suggest her distress and longing. The woman also shares her grievances about her in-laws—her mother-in-law’s constant complaints and her sister-in-law’s vanity.
Despite her struggles, she reflects on her love for her husband, who has been spoiled by his mother. The recurring theme of seeing a glimpse in the mirror symbolizes moments of clarity or realization amidst her emotional struggles.
The way that Betu brings this to life is charming, timeless and sublime, laced with a high emotional quotient. We learn that Betu is indeed Himmat Singh‘s mother. He tells us, “My mom raised me to love music, trained my vocals, and made me the singer I am today. To repay her I recorded her vocals on this old Punjabi folk song and worked with a professional studio in San Francisco, California to make the ultimate Mother’s Day present!”
We love the intention behind the release, and the familial and wholesome creative process. We cannot wait to hear the song on all major streaming platforms soon, in the meantime, make sure to listen to it on SoundCloud, and explore Himmat Singh‘s wider discography below!