SHILPA RAO | The Grammy nominee released her first duet with Darshan Raval. The singer speaks with Shalini Saksena about how the collaboration happened, the secret behind some of her hit songs and upcoming projects
What is Tere Siva Jag Mein about?
Well, the most beautiful thing about this song is the melody itself. There is something in the song that really draws you towards it. It’s sung in raag Yaman. That’s one of my favourite raags and I feel that’s like a cherry on the cake. The lyrics are so simple and yet so relatable to everyone, so these things attracted me towards this song.
How did the song/collaboration happen?
It is so much fun when it’s a new song and very different from the stuff I have done before. I love to be in front of the mic and try out new things and put my mind to it. Also, Pritam was keen to try something new this time and I love this quality about him. He pushes you to do even better than what you can think and I think that's what I love about doing these music recordings.
It’s your first duet with Darshan Raval. How was the experience?
Darshan has a huge youth fanbase and people really love him. I have heard some of his music before and it was great to jam with him on this one. I really wish him all the best in all the music he does in the future. My best wishes.
How tough is it to sing for different artists?
It is nice and interesting to collaborate with different musicians. It is always a fun thing to do. Trying new things and doing different projects that you have never done before.
You and Pritam have given so many hits. What’s the secret?
Well, it always starts with Pritam having an idea or the vision of the song and in this case he wanted to blend a beautiful melodic structure and into very modern format which is very relatable and he has done it so well. When you hear the song, it’s catering to someone who loves melody and also catering to someone who loves a beautiful groove. People are able to relate to these songs. You can connect with the song and different people at the same time. I think that’s a quality that every beautiful song has.
What are your upcoming projects?
I have planned lot of collaborations and lot of songs coming on the way. You'll be hearing alot from me in coming time.
How has Covid impacted your work?
At one side obviously we are not working as we used to. I work in mostly performance-based but again there are times in your life where more than your work a sense of community and safety for your fellow citizens matter. So, I think all the artists have taken that one step back. In times of crisis obviously the farmers are keeping us alive with food and it is the artists job to keep people happy in their minds with art. All the artists are doing the same but yes, I am really happy that things are getting better and I hope things stay like this. We will get back to the stage very soon and I am hoping for that.