Shalmali Kholgade, singer, songwriter & composer has recently released her new single Spark A Fire. She speaks with SHAlINI SAKSENA about the reason behind the song

What is the song Spark A Fire aboutij

When you get an objective of finishing a project, you actually get down to doing it seriously. This was the beginning of Spark A Fire. In the process of learning these different aspects and employing them to create a song, we realised that the song we were writing was for music and what it does. The song itself has five different takes on what music has done for the team.

What was the inspiration behind itij

I have always wanted to invest more in writing songs — writing words, coming with a song, melody. But for some reason, I strayed from this dream. But recently, I started more time and effort into song writing. I have beautiful young girls with whom I spend time — who are part of my live shows. I asked them if they would be interested in song writing and do this with me. When they showed eagerness, I went ahead.

You have had several Bollywood chartbusters. Why get into independent songs nowij

I wished to be an indie artist before getting into Bollywood. But fate took me in another direction. I am happy that it took me where it did. I never expected to get into Bollywood. But I the beautiful song Pareshaan from Ishaqzaade marked my entry into the industry. After that, I sang several other songs which did well. But I never wanted to do this as the thing that would shape me as a musician. I always wanted to be an indie artist. This song makes me happy that despite a Bollywood history, I am putting my foot into indie music and doing what I always wanted to do. Independent music gives you the freedom to express yourself.

What do you love most — playback, composing or lyricsij

It is like asking what is your favourite song. We never have an answer for it. We are always listening to so many of them, to pick one is not easy. There is no one thing that I love. I just know what these three give me in return — they enrich me and are an integral part of the person I am today. At this point in life, I am enjoying writing and composing because I have been doing playback for the last five years.

You’ve integrated dance into your video. Do you love dancingij

Yes, I have always envisioned myself doing a big show with dancers and me singing like Bruno Mars, Justin Timberlake or Beyonce when it comes to stage shows. This is lacking in India and I want to change this.

What nextij

I have had too many things on my plate. I am a Maharashtrian and you know what our thali looks like — too busy. My life is pretty much like that because this is how I like to live. At the moment, I am invested in independent music, some of which is in English. I am collaborating with producers and song-writers in Hindi. I am also working on my new set which I just recorded with my band. I am working on Season 2 of a Marathi music reality show on Colors. As far as film songs are concerned, it is always a surprise which is good. I am happy where I am going.