Ayesha’s Journey: Bringing Bangla Lyrics to Crystal Youth
When we started Crystal Youth, we wanted our music to be a bridge—something deeply personal yet universal, something that could connect us to each other and to our listeners. For Ayesha, one of the most meaningful ways to do that has been through language, with the forthcoming Shaharer Alo (City Lights) being partially in Bangla.
Bangla is more than words. In Bangladesh, it’s a lifeline to history, culture, and identity. The fight to protect it is woven into the nation’s fabric, from the Bangla Language Movement of 1952 to the global recognition of International Mother Language Day. For Ayesha, bringing Bangla lyrics into our music wasn’t just an artistic choice—it was a way to honour that legacy and keep it alive.
Why Language Matters in Bangladesh
Ayesha: “Bangla isn’t just a language in Bangladesh—it’s part of who we are. In 1952, people gave their lives during the Bangla Language Movement to ensure we could speak our mother tongue freely. That sacrifice became the foundation of our national identity.”
The events of 1952 were monumental. As part of Pakistan at the time, Bengalis faced suppression of their language. On February 21, 1952, protests in Dhaka turned tragic when several students were killed by police. Their bravery led to the eventual recognition of Bangla as an official language and inspired the creation of International Mother Language Day, celebrated worldwide to honour linguistic diversity.
Ayesha: “Every February 21st, we remember those who died so we could speak Bangla without fear. Singing in Bangla feels like my way of saying thank you to them, of carrying forward what they fought for.”
Connecting to the 2024 Bangladesh Uprising
Bangladesh’s history of resistance didn’t end in 1952. The 2024 Bangladesh uprising was a stark reminder of the country’s ongoing struggle for justice and equality. Though it wasn’t directly tied to language, it carried the same spirit of unity and defiance.
Michael: “When the uprising happened, we were both following the news constantly. It was heartbreaking, but also inspiring to see how people came together to demand change.”
The uprising sparked the idea for a song that might appear on our next album.
Ayesha: “We wrote a song about the uprising because it felt important to tell that story. It’s not just about politics—it’s about people, about their strength and their refusal to stay silent. It’s the same spirit that’s behind the fight for our language.”
Bringing Bangla to Crystal Youth
Incorporating Bangla lyrics into Crystal Youth’s music added a layer of authenticity and depth to our sound. It’s a way for Ayesha to share her heritage while creating something new and meaningful.
Ayesha: “When I sing in Bangla, it feels like I’m bringing a piece of home into the music. But it’s also nerve-wracking—there’s always that question of whether people who don’t understand the words will still connect to the emotion behind them.”
Michael: “Music is a universal language, and Bangla fits right into that. Even if you don’t understand every word, you feel it. When Ayesha sings in Bangla, it’s like the whole song comes alive—it’s raw, it’s real, and it’s her.”
Building Bridges Through Music
For us, language in music is more than just a tool—it’s a way to build bridges between cultures, experiences, and emotions.
Ayesha: “Bangla taught me how powerful language can be, but it also taught me that it’s not the only way to connect. Singing in Bangla feels deeply personal, but when I see people responding to it, it reminds me that music speaks to everyone, no matter the language.”
Michael: “That’s what Crystal Youth is about, isn’t it? Finding those universal emotions and creating something that connects us all. The Bangla lyrics aren’t just part of the music—they’re part of the story we’re telling.”
Looking Ahead
As we continue to explore new themes and stories in our music, we’re inspired by the resilience and richness of the Bangladeshi people. From Shahar-er Alo to our song about the 2024 uprising, we hope to honour the spirit of unity and defiance that runs through Bangladesh’s history.
Ayesha: “Bangladesh has taught me that voices matter—whether they’re speaking, singing, or resisting. That’s something we’ll always carry with us in our music.”
An Invitation to Reflect
We hope our music inspires you to reflect on your own roots, your own stories, and the connections that matter most. Language and culture are powerful tools for creating bridges—and music is where it all comes together.
Let the music guide you—no translation required.
Shaharer Alo (City Lights) will be released on January 15 as the second single from Horizons.