Shae Gill on Art, Identity, Coke Studio & Building a Career in Pakistan | Karak With Mahreen

Description

A deep, heartfelt conversation with Shae Gill on global fame, identity, faith, and navigating Pakistan’s music industry as a young woman. From the viral explosion of Pasoori and the magic of Coke Studio to growing up Christian in Pakistan, financial independence before marriage, and breaking gender barriers in the industry, this episode explores both the personal and professional layers of her journey. Shae also opens up about her Punjabi roots, her new song Insecurity, upcoming music projects, industry realities, and what the future holds for Pakistani music. Plus, reflections on culture, representation, and the responsibility artists carry today. Follow Karak With Mahreen for more real stories and voices from across the world. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/karakwithmahreen TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@karakwithmahreen YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@KarakWithMahreen Our incredible guest: Shae Gill Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shaegilll Timestamps: 0:00 – Introduction 3:00 – Life in Dubai with Shae Gill 3:35 – Why Pasoori became a sensation 4:39 – Her favorite part of Pasoori 7:30 – Why Coke Studio Pakistan is unique 9:00 – Pasoori as a cultural representation of Pakistan 9:50 – Growing up Christian in Pakistan 11:53 – What she loves about Pakistan 13:00 – Entering the Pakistani music industry 17:12 – Music industry infrastructure in Pakistan 18:37 – Her family’s reaction to her career 21:28 – Financial independence for women before marriage 22:19 – Gender bias in the Pakistani industry 27:10 – Her new song Insecurity 29:30 – Inspiration behind Insecurity 37:45 – Upcoming music projects 38:22 – Punjabi identity influencing her lyrics 42:06 – Future of Pakistani music 55:00 – Lessons from Pakistani & Punjabi culture 57:30 – Surprising industry realities 59:12 – Coke Studio vs independent production 1:08:04 – Reacting to the music video response 1:09:25 – Styling and dressing for music videos 1:11:39 – Outro