Shilpa Rao
After giving hits like Khuda Jaane (Bachna Ae Haseeno), Ishq Shava (Jab Tak Hain Jaan), Jazba (ladies vs Ricky Bahl), Manmarziyan (lootera) and Malang (Dhoom3), Shilpa Rao has carved a niche for herself in Bollywood. She speaks with Sangeeta Yadav about her plans for 2014
‘Difficult to impress my dad’
How was 2013 for youIJ
It was quite satisfying because I got to sing a huge variety of songs. In 2013, I explored a different shade of me. lootera’s Manmarziyan, was a difficult song which I had tried for the first time in my life and it came out very well. Then came Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani’s Subhanallah which was also liked by the audience. But Malang, the sufi number from Dhoom 3, was the perfect icing on the cake for me in 2013. Both Subhanalla and Malang required me to sing in a high pitch which I had not tried before so it was difficult. The kind of songs that I got to sing this year gave me a new high. It made me push my capabilities and potentials to another level.
How was your experience working with some of the best music directors and singers of Bollywood...
I feel fortunate and blessed that I got the opportunity to work with legends like Gulzar sahab, Pritam, Rehman and the works. It was great learning experience for me. No matter how talented they are, when it comes to work, they are very honest and always stick to their principles. It inspires me when I see such veterans put in their heart and soul for any performance. Even at their age they put in a lot of effort for each and every song. That is very heartening to see.
Any memories from the recording sessionsIJ
When I first heard Rehman sir’s part of Ishq Shava song (Jab Tak Hain Jaan), I realised that it was the different sound which he created with every single project. He is a true creator of music and knows the nuances of the music very well.
How has your journey in the music scene been so farIJ
My father is also a singer and I started training in music at a very young age. He was always there to support me and because of him I’m at this position in Bollywood. It has always been a tough task and a challenge to impress my father. When it comes to music, he is very strict and cannot tolerate any nonsense. But he is the best guru that one could have asked for. We share a great bond.
How did music fare in 2013IJ
last year was good for music as we got some great hits — Tum hi ho and Sun raha hain naa tu from Ashiqui 2, Zinda from Bhaag Milka Bhaag, Maanjha from Kai Po Che, Balam pichkari and Badtameez Dil from Yeh Jawani Hai Deewani,Tum tak from Raanjhanaa.
What are your plans for 2014IJ
We are in the process of finalising the music of Bang Bang with Vishal Shekhar. The project has a lot of promises and the music is terrific. I just hope I continue to entertain my audience in the coming year as well. It is a difficult task to perform in each and every song but I will try my level best. In 2014, I am also looking forward to venturing out of my comfort zone. For me, music is itself satisfying and it feels great when my work gets appreciated. I will never be complacent about my work.