'Ganesh vandana made on a lark with tune in mind'

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'Ganesh vandana made on a lark with tune in mind'

Sunday, 14 October 2018 | Shalini Saksena

'Ganesh vandana made on a lark with tune in mind'

Hariharan who recently released his devotional song on Lord Ganesh, speaks to SHALINI SAKSENA about his accomplishments and life’s lessons

What is the devotional song that you have released on Ganesh Chathurthi about?

My son, Akshay and I were working on a song when a tune came up — dheen tananana. The tune was very festive and we decided to do a Ganpati song. Akshay gave the music and the song is in praise of Lord Vigneshwara. I always wanted to a song on Lord Ganesh. I am happy that this was possible.

How long did it take you?

Usually, the time is spent on getting the lyrics and the tune. It takes three-four days to finalise this. The entire process takes around two weeks.

What has been your biggest accomplishment?

That I have managed to keep my fans happy for 40 years and they have managed to keep me happy and the journey continues — that God gave me the strength to stay on. As long as I am able to sing well (for the listeners), I will continue to do what I do as long as I feel vibrant, energetic and content.

Can you share the struggles you faced in the industry?

I got my break in 1977 for Gaman in which I sang a ghazal. From there on, I went on to work with people like Laxmi-Kant Pyarelal, Naushad saheb and RD Burman. Also, each year I would bring out around 40 albums on ghazals. But commercially, the 80s-90s was a struggle — not a financial one but for my voice to be identified and accepted. My voice is very different. But once it got registered, it has been a great journey.

Is the industry kind to any artist?

The industry comprises of just a bunch of people who are reacting to the overall environment. To get a break and for it to click, you need hard work and luck. Every artist has to go through it, especially in playback where the movie has to do well and the song has to connect with the people as well.

What has life taught you?

There are so many. One has to work very hard in life; be ambitious. If things happen good, if not drop it. Creativity happens on a black board that is empty. Stay young at heart and you will get the energy to move forward.

What do you listen to?

I listen to a lot of classical and Blues music. Also, any good music that attracts me.

Tell us about your association with Hungama Spotlight.

I am a musician and had earlier released Afsaane (ghazal) as well. When I approached by Hungama Spotlight —  a live performance and conversation stage by Hungama Music — I agreed for the one-hour session.

Is there a format that you like to work with?

Yes, Urdu Blues. I would like to do this with a Blues artist; to do something funky.

Is it wrong if we want to hear the ‘good old’ songs?

There is no right or wrong. For a 60-year-old today, songs 40 years back puts him in a time-lock. When you hear them, it takes you back in time.

Who should be responsible for good music?

The most important are the people who bring the artists and the listeners together, the music companies and the media. They have the one responsibility — to propagate all kinds of music.

What are you future projects?

A single, a ghazal album and working with my son Akshay who has created a fusion album.

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