ISLAMABAD, October 22, 2026: Coke Studio Nu.WAV has released its fourth track, Shabnam, featuring Maanu and Zoha Waseem, with production by Talal Qureshi. The song explores the complexities of love, doubt and suspicion, presenting two contrasting perspectives of the same relationship.Originally developed as an unfinished collaboration between Talal Qureshi and Maanu, the track evolved with the addition of Zoha Waseem. Named after morning dew, which is fleeting and difficult to hold on to, Shabnam captures the fragile nature of relationships through two distinct musical perspectives.
Maanu’s vocals convey uncertainty and suspicion, while Zoha responds from a different emotional standpoint. Rather than resolving their differences, the song allows both perspectives to coexist, portraying how two people can experience the same relationship in entirely different ways.The music video, directed by Fida Moin, complements the song’s themes through a surreal and playful portrayal of domestic life. Ordinary objects and everyday interactions gradually take on exaggerated meanings, reflecting the growing distance between reality and imagination. The narrative culminates in a chaotic birthday gathering, where celebration gives way to pandemonium.
The video’s visual identity draws inspiration from Brutalist architecture and German Expressionism. Production Design and Art Direction by Tanya Mirza feature imposing concrete structures, cool grey tones and theatrical interiors, creating an atmosphere that feels both familiar and unsettling.Speaking about the release, Kamal Khan, Executive Producer of Coke Studio Nu.WAV, said the track’s underlying tension had been present from the beginning. He noted that the collaboration brought together two different interpretations of the same story, while the music video translated the song’s paranoia into a distinctive blend of humour and unease.Maanu has established himself in Pakistan’s independent music scene through a blend of indie, pop and hip-hop. His releases include Melancholic, Khwaab, Kidhar? and Sweetu. His collaboration with Annural Khalid on Coke Studio Season 15’s award-winning track Jhol further expanded his audience. His recent album Thikaana also features collaborations with Asim Azhar and Talha Anjum.Zoha Waseem brings classical and ghazal influences to contemporary pop, combining traditional vocal techniques with modern production and songwriting. She initially gained recognition through performances honouring Madam Noor Jehan at Alhamra in Lahore and later reached wider audiences through releases including Majboor.Talal Qureshi, a prominent figure in Pakistan’s electronic music scene, has worked across independent electronic music and mainstream pop for more than a decade. His previous Coke Studio contributions include producing Peechay Hutt in Season 14, alongside projects such as AAG, Cricket Khidaiye and TURBO.
The track is produced by Talal Qureshi and co-produced by Maanu. Written by Maanu and Zoha Waseem, it is composed by Maanu and arranged by Maanu and Talal Qureshi. Talal also handled mixing, while Sean Tallman mastered the track. Recording took place at Sounds Good Studios, with Shayaan Siddiqui serving as Recording Engineer.The music video was produced by Gali Films, with Fida Moin directing and Salaar Yousufzai serving as Director of Photography. Tanya Mirza led Production Design and Art Direction, while Faraz Sheikh and his team handled wardrobe design and styling.Shabnam is the fourth of six releases under Coke Studio Nu.WAV, following Dil, Rangeen and Maheya. Two further releases are expected in the coming weeks as the platform continues to showcase diverse voices and creative approaches within Pakistan’s contemporary music scene.
