KARACHI, October 20, 2026: Coke Studio Nu.WAV has released Shabnam, a new track featuring Maanu and Zoha Waseem, produced by Talal Qureshi. Released on October 18, the song explores love, doubt and suspicion through two people who see the same relationship differently.

Rather than resolving the tension between them, the track allows both perspectives to unfold. As a result, listeners are left to consider the uncertainty and misunderstandings that can shape relationships.

A Song About Fleeting Relationships

Shabnam began as an unfinished collaboration between Qureshi and Maanu before Zoha Waseem joined the project.

The title means morning dew, which disappears before anyone can hold on to it. This image reflects the song’s central theme: the fragile and uncertain nature of human connections.

Maanu approaches the relationship with suspicion and unanswered questions. Meanwhile, Zoha presents her own perspective, creating a musical exchange that leaves their differences unresolved.

Music Video Blends Reality and Imagination

Directed by Fida Moin, the accompanying music video brings the song’s uncertainty into a surreal domestic setting.

Everyday objects and familiar gestures take on exaggerated meanings through Maanu’s perspective. Gradually, the video blurs the boundaries between reality and imagination.

The tension eventually spills into a birthday gathering that descends into chaos. Meanwhile, Qureshi appears as a DJ who arrives at a party only to find himself in a household consumed by suspicion.

The visuals draw inspiration from Brutalism and German Expressionism. Production design and art direction by Tanya Mirza reinforce the unsettling atmosphere through concrete structures, cool grey tones, imposing interiors and carefully arranged objects.

Together, these elements make the setting feel familiar yet uncomfortable.

Coke Studio Nu.WAV Highlights Creative Collaboration

Coke Studio Nu.WAV Executive Producer Kamal Khan said the tension between the characters shaped the project from its early stages.

According to Khan, the collaboration developed into a story told from two different perspectives. He also highlighted Moin’s direction, which balances humour and strangeness with the underlying sense of paranoia.

The track brings together artists with distinct musical backgrounds.

Maanu has established a presence in Pakistan’s indie, pop and hip-hop scenes through projects such as Melancholic, Khwaab and Thikaana. His appearance alongside Annural Khalid on Coke Studio Season 15’s Jhol also brought him wider recognition.

Zoha Waseem combines classical and ghazal influences with contemporary pop. She first attracted attention through performances honouring Madam Noor Jehan at Alhamra in Lahore. Later, releases such as Majboor helped her reach wider digital audiences.

Qureshi, meanwhile, is known for his work in Pakistan’s electronic music scene. His previous projects include Coke Studio Season 14’s Peechay Hutt, as well as AAG and TURBO.

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Fourth Release in Six-Song Series

Maanu and Zoha Waseem wrote Shabnam, while Maanu also co-produced the track. Maanu and Qureshi jointly handled the arrangement.

The release marks the fourth of six songs planned for Coke Studio Nu.WAV. It follows Dil, Rangeen and Maheya, with two more releases expected in the coming weeks.

With its contrasting vocal perspectives and unsettling visuals, Shabnam continues the series’ exploration of contemporary musical expression through collaborations between Pakistani artists.