Before we dive in, we’re excited to introduce Sofar Voices, where we spotlight different members of the Sofar community — or the Sofam, as we like to call it. In each edition, you’ll get to know fans, artists, crew, curators… you name it. If they’re involved in creating the Sofar magic, they’ve got a story to tell and we’re here to share it. Enjoy!
With Valentine’s Day on the horizon, we’re celebrating a love story with Sofar woven into its journey. Meet Anisa and Binit, a couple whose cross-continental journey brought them together through music, meaningful experiences, and lasting memories. This past November, Anisa recreated a special memory for Binit’s 40th birthday: a Sofar show featuring the Ganda Boys, the very artists who made their first date so special.
Let’s start from the beginning. How did you and Binit meet?
Anisa: Binit and I were introduced during the COVID-19 pandemic, while we were living thousands of miles apart. Binit was living just outside of London and I was in Philadelphia. There was no end of the pandemic in sight when we both met (in December 2020), so we continued to speak online every day for 10 months.
How did Sofar become a part of your story?
Anisa: When it was finally possible to meet in person, we decided to plan a day of fun for each other. As part of my day for Binit, I surprised him with tickets to a Sofar Sounds show since I knew about his appreciation of arts and music through his volunteering work with LIFEbeat, an organization which promotes community through creativity.
Anisa: I had also been to my first Sofar show in Austin, TX and loved the concept from the get-go. Binit and I loved our first show together. We got to see the Ganda Boys and Michael Sebastian, and were touched by their music and warmth.
Incredible! Fast forward to today, what role does music play in your relationship?
Anisa: We are a year into our marriage and after attending a few more Sofar shows together, we brought friends and family along for the journey for Binit’s milestone 40th birthday. Music continues to be an important connector for us whether through karaoke, dance, or going to a concert. Thank you for helping us celebrate and recreating that magic that brought us together from the very beginning!
That’s truly heartwarming! Now onto some quickfire questions. What’s the soundtrack to your life?
Anisa: At our wedding, we danced to a song from a Hindi movie that we both grew up separately listening to. It’s called “Kuch Kuch Hota Hai” and it translates to “something something happens,” like the butterflies-in-your-tummy moment where you see someone and hold their hand for the first time. We danced to the song at our wedding reception, and it’s a song we love listening to. Very nostalgic!
What would your dream venue be for a Sofar Sounds show?
Binit: On the beach in a beautiful sunny location in Mombasa, Kenya.
What’s your best Sofar moment?
Binit: This Sofar show here was beyond my wildest dreams and expectations. It was so lovely to see everyone enjoying this music that meant a lot to us.
Anisa: It’s with our nearest and dearest which is hard to recreate–it really feels like we’re in one of our homes, with all our loved ones, and a much bigger living room.
Thank you so much for sharing your story, Anisa and Binit! We’re honored to be part of your journey and hope to continue creating beautiful memories together. 💛
