Azadi Records presents the debut album by Srinagar-based artiste Ahmer Javed, produced in collaboration with critically acclaimed producer Sez On The Beat. Titled Little Kid, Big Dreams, the album is an acute representation of the situation in Kashmir, from the beginning of the independence struggle and the call for Azadi, to the crackdown on its citizens and the creation of an nvironment where society stands desperate, without hope and bereft of unity. By diving deep into his family history, Ahmer manages to introduce people to the complexities of the Kashmiri people and provides a more holistic view of their society.
Ahmer is a prolific rapper and producer from Srinagar, Kashmir. Since a young age, Ahmer has been acutely aware of the violence that plagues that valley, and his lyrics reflect a self-critical and self-aware artist that is trying to make sense of one of the most complex issues of our time. By diving deep into his and his family’s history in the valley, Ahmer manages to introduce people to the complexities of the Kashmiri people and provides a more holistic view of their society.
The narrative sees Ahmer walking a tightrope as his mind and heart are constantly pulled in different directions regarding what he should do. Heavily influenced by the legacy of his uncle, Shaheed Aijaz Ahmad Dar, who is officially considered the first martyr in the armed struggle, constantly looms over Javed and how he views the chaotic situation. Tracks such as Uncle, Elaan and Kasheer pay tribute to his legacy, while tracks such as Akh, Galat and Little Kid, Big Dreams confront his own personal demons and the trials and tribulations faced by artists in the region. The influence of iconic Kashmir artiste Roushan Ilahi aka MC Kash is also clear to see in Javed’s writing - acutely capturing the pain and helplessness felt by Kashmir’s youth.