NAKASH AZIZ, who has sung songs like gandi baat and selfie le le re, talks to SHAlINI SAKSENA about his latest song naach meri jaan from Tubelight, among other things
Did you think this song would become so popularIJ
I was aware that it would garner some attention since it is picturised on Salman Khan and Sohail Khan — something that was not done before. What they have done, on the screen, adds to the overall lure to the song.
Had Salman Khan not sung it on screen, would the song not have been just as popularIJ
It is difficult to comment on it. I am still trying to figuring it out. A lot of good songs have failed to grab attention due to lack of star power. But the music has been composed by Pritam da and he is known to give great music making the songs a hit.
Is there a hit formula for a songIJ
It depends on how it is marketed. I don’t know about a hit song but I know what a good song is. I know a lot of good songs that have not been hits. I try and ensure that every song I sing is made better.
What’s the secret of you delivering such hitsIJ
I try to be honest with what I am doing. The kind of songs I do are looked down upon by certain sections — they don’t think that it is music. But for me, everything is music. When I was singing naach meri jaan.... I brought my personal experience into it. I have a great bonding with a cousin which I brought in while singing this song on brotherhood.
You have worked with AR Rahman, How does he bring out the best in youIJ
He doesn’t do anything, except setting the bar very high. He is a musician you want to put your best for and impress. When you are with him, you don’t think of the audience's reaction, only his. You want to push yourself when your are working with him.
Why are songs all about beat and not so much about lyricsIJ
This is not totally true. There are some really good lyrics in songs from Bajrangi Bhaijaan, Raabta and MS Dhoni: The Untold Story. But the audience doesn’t have the time and patience to go deep into a song. Since they are stressed, they look for something light and enjoyable.
Why are there so many singers in one filmIJ
It is great to have multiple singers since it means there is hope for others to better themselves. It creates healthy competition. When we meet other composers and singers, we discuss our work and get to learn a lot.
What are the challenges that face singers like youIJ
First, it is about performance. I always want to better what I do. We have our problems in life but when in the studio we have to forget our worries and just sing with our heart.
You breathe music all the time. How do you unwindIJ
Music is woven into my life so much and it shapes how I deal with life. Since I have been given this gift by God, I need to bring in happiness in others lives through it. To unwind, I watch cricket and root for India. I love Dhoni. I wish we could all be as calm and composed as he is.
Who or what motivates youIJ
Everything around me motivates me. When I come home, and the watchman smiles at me, that inspires me too. Though he is not as moneyed as I am, yet he is happy.