Tulsi Kumar, winner of IIFA award for Soch Na Sake and sung the Goggle pa ke number, tells SHAlINI SAKSENA that music is her only passion
Did you think that the Google song (Mubarkan) would become so popularIJ
When I was singing it, I knew that it is a party song and that every wedding in India would be playing it. Though it is difficult to say which song will work and which won’t but some songs give vibes.
What is Gulabi 2.0IJ
It was a song from the movie Noor back in April. It is not a recreation of the song Gulabi Ankhen — just carries the hook from the song. While the original was a romantic song, this one was a party song, a total EDM — very youth friendly. The makers didn’t want to make a recreation and hence the name Gulabi 2.0.
Do you have a problem with recreationsIJ
No, not at all. I have done a lot of recreations. In fact, my first single was a recreation in collaboration with my sister Kushali — Mainu Ishq Da lagya Rog from the movie Dil Hai Ki Manta Nahin. But we had a different arrangement and lyrics, we only took the hook. The same was true for Aye Mere Humsafar from the film Qayamat Se Qayamat Tak for the movie All Is Well. So I have been part of several recreations. There is no harm in making such songs since the youth also wants to hear what has been created in the past. But these songs should not be tampered. Remixes are different from recreations.
For example, my song Soch Na Sake that won the IIFA for the Best Playback Singer. We have completed recreated it. We just retained some aspect of the original.
You have won awards earlier as well. How does winning another feelIJ
Each award that one wins brings in lot of satisfaction and IIFA Awards are very reputable; winning an IIFA is very gratifying and a great feeling. Each time your work is recognised and awarded, it makes you want to work even harder; it encourages you.
Has there a lot of pressure because you are Gulshan Kumar’s daughterIJ
When one is a daughter/son of a singer or an actor, initially your talent is under scanner and is questioned. It is a mindset. But once the daughter/son has proved one’s mettle like Alia Bhatt has done, you make place for yourself and prove your talent. If you ask anybody in the industry, including me, I too would feel that the person was getting it on the platter. But it’s about doing work regularly and being appreciated. I was not a one-song wonder. I have worked hard; I started learning when I was seven and done my homework before entering the industry.
Where do you want to take music through T-SeriesIJ
I have seen a lot of music during my dad’s time in the 90s. Producers, directors and lyricists coming and talking about music and not just Bollywood. Now, my brother does this. I too visit our Delhi office. T-Series is part of every genre — whether devotional songs or Bollywood — we are one label that caters to all kinds of music. Our focus has always been and will always be on melody.
Your father revolutionarised the way people listened to songs. Are you working towards changing music of todayIJ
My father used to go for personal sitting for all the projects. Giving personal touch has given us an edge and made T-Series a part of some great work that you hear today. We also give opportunity to newcomers; they are always welcome. We sing in a lot of singers. A lot of work is being done in this regard; it is something that we have carried on from my father’s days.
Is there a definition of a perfect songIJ
There is no such thing as a perfect song. Every song has something perfect in it. Some songs have a great melody, some have great lyrics, some songs have great instrument arrangement and some have soulful voice. A perfect song will depend on the mood you are in.
What does music mean to youIJ
Music is within me. It has always been a part of me, it is my passion and made it my profession and hence love doing what I am doing today. My father brought in a lot of work at home back then and would talk about music all the time. We have always had music around us and this has shaped me and my music.