Shafin Ahmed, renowned as a Bangladeshi rock luminary, embodies a multifaceted career as a bassist, singer-songwriter, record producer, and even a politician. Born on February 14 in Kolkata, India, he hails from a lineage steeped in musical tradition, being the youngest scion of the illustrious musicians Kamal Dasgupta and Feroza Begum. Their relocation to Dhaka in the late 60s set the stage for Shafin’s musical odyssey, commencing at a precocious age of 9 with lessons in Nazrul Sangeet.
His trajectory into the realm of rock and roll burgeoned during his stint in London for higher education, where he and his elder brother, Hamin Ahmed, imbibed the quintessence of Western musical ethos. This immersion paved the way for their pivotal role in shaping the Bangladeshi rock landscape.
In 1979, the brothers joined forces with the seminal band, Miles, initially as an acoustic guitarist. However, destiny had loftier plans as Shafin transitioned into the role of lead singer and bassist in 1991, steering Miles through the tumultuous currents of the 90s Bangla rock resurgence. His indelible imprint graces the band’s discography, with compositions that resonate with generations.
Though beset by intermittent departures from Miles due to internal discord, Shafin’s artistic spirit remained undimmed. In 2010, he embarked on a new venture, founding the ensemble Rhythm of Life, only to reunite with Miles later that same year.
Beyond the stage, Shafin Ahmed’s foray into politics underscores his commitment to societal change. His journey traverses the realms of melody and governance, leaving an indelible mark on Bangladesh’s cultural and political landscape alike.