Rock band Warfaze will celebrate the music and legacy of Michael Jackson at a special concert in Dhaka on 31 July while also marking the band’s 42-year journey.
The concert, titled Tribute to Originals, will take place at the Hall of Fame of the Bangladesh-China Friendship Exhibition Centre.
The 31 July concert was unveiled at a press conference in Dhaka on Saturday. The event was attended by all members of Warfaze, along with organisers including Brandmyth Founder Rakibul Azam, Mars & Co. Chairman Mahbubul Akram, and representatives of Chuti Resort Cox’s Bazar ltd Managing Director Md Mizanur Rahman, Director Tamanna Mim and other directors.
The show comes shortly after Warfaze received the Ekushey Padak. Organisers said the production will combine a tribute to Michael Jackson with the band’s first commercial solo concert since receiving the national honour.
Drummer Tipu said the idea emerged after the release of the biopic Michael renewed global interest in the late pop icon. Although Warfaze is known for rock and metal, he said the band members enjoy music across different genres. He added that Jackson’s songwriting, groove, basslines, vocal style and stage performances have inspired them since childhood.
Tipu said discussions with vocalist Palash Noor and organiser Brandmyth gradually developed the concept into a full-scale production. He added that the band will complete its UK tour before returning to Bangladesh for final rehearsals.
Keyboardist Shams Mansoor Ghani described the concert as one of the most demanding projects Warfaze has undertaken. He said Jackson’s layered musical arrangements require extensive preparation.
Lead guitarist Ibrahim Ahmed Kamal said performing songs associated with one of the world’s greatest entertainers carries immense responsibility. He said the band aims to remain faithful to Jackson’s musical standards.
Palash Noor said the concert has created an unusual level of pressure for the band. However, he said members continue to rehearse every day and hope to offer audiences a unique experience. He described Michael Jackson as an era in music, adding that songs such as Heal the World and Earth Song continue to inspire him.
The concert will also mark a milestone for lead guitarist and backing vocalist Samir Hafiz, who will sing on stage for the first time alongside his guitar performance.
Brandmyth Founder Rakibul Azam said the three-and-a-half-hour concert will dedicate nearly two hours to Michael Jackson before an interval, with Warfaze performing its own set during the second half.
Rakibul also said Brandmyth plans to introduce ticket insurance for future concerts, allowing refunds if organisers cancel an event. He said discussions with an insurance provider are underway, although the service may not be ready before Tribute to Originals.
Organisers said the production will feature live music, choreography, theatrical visuals and advanced lighting. They also plan enhanced security, controlled audience capacity and multiple viewing zones for audiences.
