Music Review: G.O.A.T by Diljit Dosanjh

This week saw the launch of Punjabi Superstar, Diljit Dosanjh’s highly anticipated latest album ‘G.O.A.T’ (Greatest Of All Time). After accomplishing critical acclaim in Bollywood and joining the 100 crore club with his last film, ‘Good Newwz’ (2019), Diljit is back to doing what he does best.

The 16-track album begins with an intro, in which Dosanjh lists his previous achievements – from record-breaking albums and super-hit films to sold out international concerts and becoming the first ever turban wearing Sikh to have his statue at the world renowned Madame Tussauds wax museum. In the end he dedicates all his success to his fans whose “love and constant support” has made it all possible.

The album itself consists of various collaborations with prominent vocalists, lyricists and producers – combining traditional folk beats with the western hip-hop swag Dosanjh has come to be known for.

The title song ‘G.O.A.T’, penned by Karan Aujla, trended worldwide on Spotify and YouTube and hit over 20 million views within days of being released. G-Funk’s music on the song forces heads to move in elation with its solid upbeat flavour – a perfect combination with the energetic and dynamic video.

Whilst the tracks ‘Clash’ and ‘Navi Navi Yaari’ (composed by The Kidd and Desi Crew respectively) continue with the trend of western influenced beats dominating the songs, ‘Peed’ composed by the award winning producer Gupz Sehra, has a more conventional folk song feel to it – almost reflecting an era gone by. The heartfelt lyrics from Raj Ranjodh makes ‘Peed’ a song destined to become one of the greatest of Dosanjh’s career.

Another worthy mention is the song ‘Track Suit’ – Dosanjh’s duet with popular Punjabi vocalist Nimrat Khaira. ‘Track Suit’ is one of the two duets on the album – the other being ‘Patola’ featuring Kaur B. Reminiscent of old-school jodi’s such as Mohammed Sadiq – Ranjit Kaur, Didar Sandhu- Amar Noorie and Chamkila – Amarjot, this Dosanjh – Khaira song does a fantastic job in recreating the magic of yesteryear’s superstars.

Other songs on the album including ‘Faraar’, ‘Akh Laal Jatt Di’ and ‘Pyaar’ all bring something from the path less travelled – something Dosanjh has become accustomed to. After all you don’t accomplish what he has by staying within the boundaries.

‘G.O.A.T’ is another feather in the superstar’s Turban. And maybe that is why he is known as one of the greatest of all time!

By Kirat Raj Singh