HRIDAY gattani, speaks with SHALINI SAKSENA about his latest song for Gurinder Chadha’s film
How did music happen?
I grew up watching a lot of concerts because of my father. He has produced and directed concerts with some of the best musical artists in the country like Lataji, Ashaji, Daler Mehndi, Hariharan and AR Rahman sir to name a few. That stemmed the whole inspiration of wanting to be on stage and performing like one of them. But I decided pretty late that I wanted to be a musician and learnt guitar and piano by myself.
How was the experience of being mentored by AR Rahman?
In 2012, I did my first cover on YouTube with a brilliant singer, Suchismita Das. We happened to send the link to Rahman sir and he replied: ‘You have a great voice, should study and learn music further’. I packed my bag and came to KM Music Conservatory, Rahman sir’s music school in Chennai. Every step of the way he has been helpful. I send all my original songs to him before releasing them to get a feedback frm him.
How did this mentoring change your music?
A lot has changed — just the outlook towards music being pure and speaking about one’s personality. Like every musician, I too have been influenced by his music and have always tried to adopt his structuring of songs. I have been blessed to work closely with him and see his entire process from start to finish, which is mind-boggling because apart from the melodic brilliance with him there are no boundaries to music and there’s certainly no holding back when it comes to trying new things.
What is your latest release about?
The song, For You My Love, is a fusion in English and Punjabi that brings both the worlds together even in the story of the film. Sir wanted a light-hearted soulful song which would connect both worlds. I got the opportunity to sing the English part of the song and as luck may have it because of Rahman sir’s generosity got to be a part of the video. The song is a part of Gurinder Chaddha’s film Blinded By The Light.
How is it different to work with other music directors?
Music is a universal language. Its beauty lies in variety and what I enjoy is bringing in my honesty and creativity to any song I sing. I’ve had the opportunity to sing for Vishal-Shekhar sir for Udanchoo from Banjo. The experience was amazing becomes easy to work with them.
Is it tough to survive in the industry?
It is extremely difficult to survive in the industry as just a playback. Therefore, I focus on my independent music and production for other artists as well. Today, you have to be self-sufficient and be a wholesome artist; one who writes, composes, sings and maybe plays an instrument too.
Do you have a mission as far as music is concerned?
My mission is to make music from my personal experiences, to help people overcome what I have tried to overcome and also bring joy to my listeners.
What next?
For me my focus for the next few months is my independent music, an announcement is due soon as there is going to be loads of content that I have worked on for over a year that will surface and start releasing.
