P R O F I L E
dream come true. That statement was like
an Oscar Award for me.
You have won numerous awards but
found your big break at MTV India
Challenge of Talents 1999. What are
the challenges you faced while trying to
break into the industry and after gaining
recognition?
Oh boy! I remember the organiser of the
show “MTV India, Rhythms 1999, A
Talent Show” called me over the phone.
He came over to my house sat with me
and said “I have witnessed Michael’s live
concert in LA. I heard you do good. If
you can do better, I will get you awarded
by MTV for sure.” I didn't know how he
had come to know of me. I replied “I will
not do better. I will do justice. Let you
and the audience be the judge for it.”
There were 50 more participants including
groups from schools, colleges and
universities. It was in Dubai Creek Park
Amphitheater. More than 7 thousand
audiences were gathered. It was hosted
by Nikhil and Mini Mathur from “MTV
Chillout”segment.
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I was jittery. I was worried as well as I
was the only one for Michael’s tribute
performance. I performed 3 tracks, Jam,
Ghosts and Billie Jean. The stage was
carpeted and I had to get on and off the
stage because of that. However, by the end
of the show, when the organiser went on
stage to announce the award, I couldn't
believe I had won. I was shuddering with
nervousness. I still cherish that moment.
There were countless challenges and
troubles during that time but I was able
to prove that our nation is far more
talented than what people think. We
need to channelise our talents in the right
direction and stay put in our shoes.
What makes you different from other
tribute artists who also imitate MJ?
I sing live either on backing tracks or with
musicians, singers and dancers. I try to
justify my performance. I live Michael’s
moments when I am performing and if I
can’t make people happy, I would happily
get off the stage. That’s where I feel, I am
different. Also, I don’t do self-acclamations
unlike others stating “world’s best, world’s
No. 1 and recognized by Jacksons.” I have
the trophies and I state them publicly
with pride.
How long does it take for Mudassar to
turn into Michael Jackson and what
steps do you take to get into character?
The transformation from myself to
Michael Jackson getup can take from
45 minutes to 1 hour 15 minutes max.
That includes the wardrobe and makeup.
I wear a wig which gives that final touch
of looking like Michael. I don’t do face
painting that many artists do. I prepare
with a lot of rehearsals. I eat carefully.
I listen to music very closely. I get the
dresses custom made and make sure when
I put them on, they should replicate
Michael Jackson, on or off stage.
Being a Pakistani, how has it been
representing that aspect of your life
while interacting with others and the
many shows that you have done?
It’s challenging. I am the only Pakistani
tribute artist of Michael Jackson. I have
faced many problems because of my
nationality in this field. Especially when