Popular Bangladeshi musician SI Tutul has launched a poignant artistic initiative dedicated to safeguarding the memory and musical legacy of the late rock icon Ayub Bachchu. Tutul has officially unveiled a four-member outfit titled ‘AB King’, a moniker that directly expresses his reverence and affection for his late mentor.
The bond between SI Tutul and Ayub Bachchu spans several decades, deeply rooted in the foundational history of modern Bangladeshi rock. Tutul was a key founding member of Love Runs Blind (LRB), the pioneering band formed by Bachchu in 1991 that dramatically reshaped the region’s audio landscape. Together, their work pioneered the Bengali guitar-driven rock movement, introducing complex melodic arrangements, blues-infused solos, and deeply emotional lyricism to millions across South Asia. Given this shared history, AB King represents an organic continuation of that creative brotherhood. The group formally inaugurated its journey on 16 August, intentionally aligning its launch with Ayub Bachchu’s birth anniversary.
Every musician recruited for AB King shares a history of personal mentorship and professional guidance under the late maestro. SI Tutul leads the ensemble on keyboards and vocals. He is joined by drummer Nafiz Al Amin, lead guitarist Iftekhar Ifti, and bass guitarist Akash Ahsan. Demonstrating notable versatility, all four instrumentalists will contribute vocal performances during their live appearances, creating a layered, multi-voiced stage presentation.
Reflecting on the emotional motivation behind the initiative, Tutul noted that each member harbors a private sanctuary of affection for their guru within their hearts—an emotion they intend to channel directly through live performance. While AB King plans to write and record original compositions, their setlists will regularly feature classic LRB hits alongside celebrated tracks from other foundational figures of Bangladeshi music.
Beyond operating as a standard touring group, AB King is structured to function as a broader, collaborative cultural platform. Alongside live stage appearances, the venture plans to organise musical workshops, charity showcases, and collaborative events designed to mentor emerging young talent. To govern these expansive initiatives, the band intends to appoint a dedicated advisory panel composed of respected music industry figures, with further details expected to be announced in due course.
Following its initial domestic unveiling, AB King is preparing to take its performance abroad for an international debut in the United States. Their inaugural overseas concert is scheduled for 19 September in Houston, Texas, hosted by the Sonar Bangla Foundation. Tutul confirmed that additional appearances across several American states are currently being finalised as part of an extended North American tour.
By combining new songwriting with tribute renditions, Tutul and his fellow bandmates hope to bridge generational divides, introducing Bangladesh’s rich rock heritage to younger audiences both domestically and within the global diaspora. For Tutul, AB King stands as far more than a typical recording project; it is a solemn commitment to ensure that Ayub Bachchu’s pioneering spirit continues to resonate on stage for years to come.
