For Gazipur singer Laboni Akter, music is more than a career. It is a way to fulfil her father’s long-held dream. With a sweet, melodious voice and a growing collection of original songs, she is among a new generation of Bangladeshi artists working to enrich the country’s music scene with fresh creations.
Laboni’s first lessons in music came from her father, Billal Hossain, who knew how to play the flute. However, life’s demands prevented him from turning his musical skill into a profession. He always dreamed that his daughter would one day become a singer.
Laboni trained at several music academies in Gazipur. She also learnt from the late folk singer Mannan Dewan. In 2020, she reached the final of Banglar Gayeen, a reality show organised by RTV. From then on, Laboni, affectionately known as Labu within her family, gradually began winning the hearts of listeners as well. She later turned her attention to original music.
Her first released original song was Aula Jhaula, written by A Mizan and composed by Shawkat Ali Emon. Actress Dighi appeared as the model in the song’s music video. It remains the most talked-about release of Laboni’s musical career.
She has since released several other songs, including Jonmo Jonmo Bhalobashio, Chupichupi, Tor Lagiye Dile Lage Tan and Bolini Bhalobashi.
Laboni has yet to get an opportunity to sing playback for a film. She hopes to make her playback debut with a beautiful song in a good film.
A few days ago, she formed her own band, The Mirror. Raihan plays lead guitar, Nayan plays bass guitar and Mrityunjay Setu handles the drums. Bullet Shamim and Lincoln play keyboards, while Palash Acharya performs on tabla and percussion.
Laboni said the band would focus on Sufi music while also exploring Nazrul songs, modern music, folk and other genres. She plans to perform songs from these traditions at stage shows as well.
Her favourite singer is Runa Laila, whom she describes as an ornament of Bangladesh’s music scene. Among Laila’s songs, Laboni particularly loves Ami Tomaderi Gaan Shonabo, Jokhon Thamবে Kolahol and Buke Ache Mon.
Laboni’s first and, so far, only show outside Bangladesh took place in Singapore. Her personal life has also brought profound grief. Her sister Liza died prematurely after contracting dengue.
Born on 9 June, Laboni completed a master’s degree in economics at Titumir College. Alongside pursuing music, she has also completed this chapter of her education.
Speaking about her musical journey, Laboni said her father’s unrealised ambition continues to inspire her.
“My father used to play the flute, but he could not pursue it professionally. That is why he dreamed of seeing me become an artist. To fulfil his dream, I have kept music close to my heart and continue to practise and sing with dedication,” she said.
Laboni has ambitions of her own. “I want to become internationally known through my music. I want my songs to keep me alive even after my death, so that people remember me through my music,” she said.
She also asked everyone to pray for her father, her mother, Runa Begum, her sister Sumaiya and her brother Alif.
