Hindi film music is changing, and many lesser-known artistes from music bands of different genres are finding their voice in the mainstream. Akshata Shetty tunes in to the music world to know more
Bollywood music is currently going through an interesting phase. It's no longer the fiefdom of a few singers and music directors. The industry has opened its doors to new voices and different styles, and it has let in a gust of fresh air that's causing quite a stir on the music scene. Musicians and singers from different bands, whose music was otherwise restricted to a niche audience, are now finding newer opportunities in the mainstream. And their appeal is not only being recognised, but also lapped up by listeners. There's variety and experimentation in the recording studios of Mumbai, like never before. So, what's driving this revolution? Money, the need to do 'something different', a more mature audience or the breed of willing-to-experiment music directors? We find out from those, who are basking in the newfound spotlight.Pappu Can't Dance Sala became every café's anthem, even before Jaane Tu Ya Jaane Na released. This A R Rahman composition definitely did wonders for Benny Dayal, the voice behind Pappu. Well, if Pappu made you groove, then the strumming of the guitar in the beginning of the track Kabhi Kabhi Aditi…, also did wonders for the song and also the man with the guitar, Sanjeev Thomas, who is also the vocalist of Rainbow Bridge. We wonder if adapting to different styles is tough, especially when language becomes a barrier, and Sanjeev says, "I don't see that as a hindrance. Why shouldn't we opt for something even if it's not in our language," he wonders. It matters a lot who the music director is, in such experimentations. "I have been working with A R Rahman since a very long time and the best part of working with him, is that he gives you creative space to showcase your talent," Sanjeev adds. Musicians, today, are calling artistes, who practise different genres of music, to be a part of their group. "Of course. I didn't go to anybody. A R Rahman called for me. After Jaane Tu…, I have played for a song in Ghajini. I have done a solo guitar piece," Sanjeev says. But things are not as rosy as they look. As far as the Indian rock scene is concerned, money is one of the major reasons that is driving talent towards Bollywood. Suraj Jagan, who sang the track Zeherile from the film Rock On!!, says, "I sang in my own style in the film, like I would in my band Dream Out Loud." But he doesn't deny the commercial compulsions. "I have been in the music scene for about 20 years and we have to survive. I started off with jingles. All I can say is that musicians like Vishal-Shekhar and A R Rahman are bringing in a lot of change. I don't know how much Rock On!! has done for me but yes, Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy have done a lot to change music from the typical. There have been members from various bands trying their luck in Bollywood since a very long time. It's only now that they are being recognised," he adds. http://www.sakaaltimes.com/2008/11/24130330/Bollywood-rocks-on.html -- regards, Vithur
