Bangladeshi rock band Artcell has announced that its long-time frontman Lincoln is stepping away from the band’s regular activities for personal reasons, with musician Bakhtiar Hossain joining as the band’s touring vocalist during his absence.
For generations of rock music fans, Artscell has been synonymous with Lincoln, whose voice has defined songs such as ‘Dukkho Bilash’, ‘Onubhuti’ and ‘Oniket Prantor’ over the past 27 years. However, the singer has now temporarily stepped back from the band’s regular activities, according to a video message shared by the band on social media.
Lincoln, who is currently in Canada, said it was the first time in nearly three decades that he had been away from both the band and its fans for an extended period.
“In my life, this is the first time I have been away from the band members and fans for so long. In the last 27 years, I have never been absent from Artscell’s class. But there are situations in life that cannot be avoided. It is the demand of time,” he said.
The singer explained that he would need to remain abroad for some time due to personal reasons but stressed that the move was only a temporary break.
“I’m taking a short break. But I will return,” Lincoln said.
He added that the decision to appoint a touring vocalist had been made in consultation with the other band members. According to Lincoln, ensuring the continuation of the band’s journey and performances for fans was more important than any individual member.
During his absence, Bakhtiar Hossain will perform Artscell’s songs on stage. Praising the musician, Lincoln said: “Bakhtiar is an outstanding vocalist and musician. He understands Artscell’s emotion and legacy.”
He also urged fans not to compare the two singers.
“When Bakhtiar sings on stage, appreciate him for his own abilities and qualities. Even though I am away, I am always with Artscell,” he said.
Artscell guitarist Kazi Faisal Ahmed said the band had never imagined operating without Lincoln but acknowledged that certain decisions become necessary in life.
“We never thought of anything without Lincoln. We have not been performing stage shows for the past six or seven months. But the fans need us too,” he said.
Fellow guitarist Iqbal Asif Jewel said Lincoln himself had wanted the band to continue moving forward rather than remain inactive during his absence.
“We needed someone who could not only sing but also carry the emotion and philosophy of Artscell’s 27-year journey. That is why Bakhtiar was chosen,” he said.
Bakhtiar described the opportunity as an emotional moment in his career.
“Artscell is a legacy. I do not have the audacity to take Lincoln bhai’s place. But Artscell has always been an emotional part of my musical journey. I will do my best,” he said.
Bakhtiar was previously the lead vocalist, guitarist and lyricist of the band Bay of Bengal. He officially left the group in January this year.
Founded in 1999, Artscell is regarded as one of Bangladesh’s most influential rock and metal bands. With songs including ‘Dukkho Bilash’, ‘Onubhuti’, ‘Pothchola’ and ‘Oniket Prantor’, the band has built a devoted fan base across generations.
