Joker by Harrdy Sandhu

There is an honesty to Joker that separates it from most Punjabi songs released around the same time. B. Praak's arrangement gives the track a layered quality that rewards repeated listening.

Harrdy Sandhu brings a warmth to Joker that no production choice could manufacture — it has to be felt, and here it is. a talented ensemble cast gave the film its soul, and Joker is the song that most directly channels that feeling into music.

By the end of 2014, Joker had moved well beyond its original audience and into everyday playlists. The emotional register of Joker is wide enough to fit celebration and solitude equally well.

At 5:17, the track does not overstay its welcome — it says what it needs to say and leaves the listener wanting more. The song continues to find new listeners, which is the surest sign that it was made with something genuine at its core.