Popular Bangladeshi singer Imran has reflected on an 18-year journey in music, describing the milestone not as an ending but as the beginning of another chapter in his career.
Imran began his journey in the music industry through the Channel i Sera Kontho competition in 2008. On 1 September that year, he was named the first runner-up, earning an early recognition that helped launch his career as a professional singer. Eighteen years later, he returned to that defining moment in a social media post, sharing his memories and expressing gratitude to the listeners who have supported him throughout his career.
Writing about the anniversary, Imran said that he still hopes to spend the years ahead surrounded by music.
“Eighteen years is not the end; it is simply the beginning of another new chapter,” he wrote. “As long as there is music in my voice, I want to keep singing. I want to continue this journey with your love.”
Looking back on the ambitions that first brought him to the competition stage, the singer described how a modest dream had gradually developed into a long and eventful career. Over the past 18 years, he said, his journey has included numerous songs, stage performances, successes, disappointments, affection, frustration and countless memories.
Yet, in his view, the most valuable achievement has been the affection of his audience.
“That small dream of that day has now become a great journey of 18 years,” Imran said. “During these 18 years, I have received countless songs, stages, successes, failures, love, hurt and thousands of memories. But the greatest gift has been your love.”
The singer also acknowledged the role played by listeners, supporters and even critics in shaping his career. He said he could not judge for himself how many good songs he had been able to offer his audience, but insisted that he had always approached every song, melody and stage performance with sincerity and commitment.
Expressing his gratitude, Imran thanked those who have listened to his music, sung his songs, shared them with others and remained by his side over the years. He also extended his appreciation to those who have criticised his work, recognising that a long artistic journey inevitably includes both praise and criticism.
His career has grown considerably since the competition that first introduced him to a wider audience. Over the years, he has remained active in Bangladesh’s music industry through recorded songs and live performances, building a sustained connection with listeners.
Imran is currently on a concert tour in the United States, performing in several cities as part of his musical programme. The tour is scheduled to continue until the first week of October.
For the singer, the anniversary has offered an opportunity to look back on nearly two decades of music while keeping his focus firmly on the future. His message was clear: after 18 years, he still sees the road ahead as one filled with songs, performances and the continuing support of his audience.
