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THIS IS THE OFFICIAL SONU NIIGAAM FAN CLUB-8
SONU NIIGAAM the most versatile,soulful and multi-talented singer the country ever had.....It cant get better than dis......
This sur ke jaadugar was born on the 30th of July 1973 to Mr.Agam Kumar Nigam and Mrs.Shobha Nigam in Faridabad...His first live stage performance was at the age of 3 when he very enthusiastically went on stage and sang "kyaa Hua tera vaada..."He has had his tough times in life when he had to struggle to prove himself to the world..He had to act as a child actor in movies and do shows to make a living...he was shunned and refused and his eyes did fill up a few times...but never did his spirit die...he worked his heart and soul out and his sincerity and dedication paid off....God had sent him to earth with a purpose...
His first break in bollywood was the song Acha sila diya from Sanam Bewafa...Bless the soul of Gulshan Kumarji who recognized his talent...That song went on to become a huge hit..but he was then branded to be a singer fit for only sad occasions...he was not to accept that at such a young age...he worked to change his style..He was considered to be a Mohd.Rafi impersonation by most..but he had to prove himself..there is a lot more to Sonu Niigaam than that...Yes Rafi Saab is definitely his mentor and his biggest inspiration but he wouldnt confine himself...In just a few years he proved himself to be the most versatile singer ever... and the rest we all know is history...whether as boy next door..Mr cute and charming...or as the most respected and adored singer in the country...or one of the most talented and capable musicians in India...People absolutely love him..and that is his strength...Presently considered by all in the industry as the best singer in the country there is no stopping him any more..
He has become the best voice for all superstars and the safest choice for music directors to do justice to any song...He is undoubtedly one of the most vocally capable singers in the country...calling him Ustad Sonu Niigaam wudnt be a misnomer...He loves being on stage and anybody who has attended his concerts will most definitely agree that he is the best singer-performer the country has ever seen..his zeal,enthusiasm and more than everything total commitment and dedication to whatever he does makes him the role model and Icon of thousands of aspiring singers all over the country...He is also an accomplished TV Host, an awesome RJ and a mindblowing mimic..To add to his credits he is also a fabulous music director and very imaginative lyricist...His compositions in Chanda Ki Doli were distinct in style and class and definitely would give the topmost music directors in India a run for their money...So many talents and one human being.....
He is also a gem of a human being...In addition to his talent, major catalysts for his success has been his dedication,sincerity and his humility..He never assumes himself to be the best...He always believes in learning more and more and exploring himself..He will perform two hours non-stop on stage when he is running a high fever because he doesnt want to disappoint his fans or make the organizers incur losses...Thats Sonu Niigaam for u..He is one of the most amiable and loving human beings you will see..He has earned love and respect from whoever has interacted with him...
"yeh khuda ke roop me insaan hai yaa insaan ke roop me khuda"........
With millions and millions of fans and a coveted national award to his credit,here is presenting to u all the multi talented multifacteted and the absolutely charming and amiable SONU NIIGAAM..
Sonu Niigaam's Address
Sonu Nigam
1201,12th Floor
Amarnath Tower,Amarnath Lane,
J.P.Road,7 Bunglows,
Andheri(west)
Bombay - 400061
INDIA
website : sonuniigaam.in...is under construction
Private Albums
Sapne Ki baat
Kismat
Deewana
Mausam
Jaan
Yaad
Chanda Ki Doli(self composed)
Sanskar(devotional)
Kudi Mili Hai Kamaal(Punjabi)
Sonu composes for his new album!
After singing and trying his hand in acting Sonu is back with something new and different - music direction. Returning with a music album after almost four years, the singer has composed all the nine songs for his album titled 'Chanda Ka Doli'
The album has been produced by T-Series. On the album Sonu says, Bhushan (Kumar, owner of T-Series) caught me programming something at my computer in my home studio last year. He liked the stuff so much that he suggested that it should be made the opening song of my new album. I ended up composing 12 songs and we chose 9 from them.
Upcoming:A semi-classical album under the banner of Sare gama HMV which he has finished recording in his personally acquired studio..The music for the album has been composed by violinist Deepak Pandit..The album has 8 tracks...A treat for music lovers
The album is called Classically Mild and it is slated for worldwide release on Feb 11th 2008.
Sonu Nigam purchases a recording studio
Singer Sonu Nigam has purchased himself a recording studio in Mumbai. Sonu says that music industry has become a big business today and therefore he wants to make the most out of it. He has his own team of musicians and technicians to engineer the work. On asking whether he will rent his studio to other singers, Sonu replies that he would definitely allow other singers to record their albums there.
The singer is currently recording his solo album in his newly acquired studio in the Lokhandwala complex.
Rafi Resurrected
In a first of its kind recording in the world, the city of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra, an elite 80 member outfit, has joined hands with India's leading vocalist, Sonu Niigaam, to create a unique first of its kind album, 'Rafi Resurrected''
May 11, 2007 marked the 150th anniversary of the Revolt of 1857. And what better way to remember the event than through music, the food of life. Ghazal maestro Talat Aziz and king of Bollywood and pop Sonu Nigaam are coming together for an album on the celebrated poet Mirza Ghalib and his observations of the 1857 mutiny. Speaking of this rather unusual project, Talat explains, 'I wanted to do something that was traditional, yet had a new dimension to it. Ghazals being my forte, I thought of putting the works of Ghalib to music. But I wanted to focus on just one aspect of his life, the most significant of which were his experiences during the mutiny.'
Select letters and ghazals that the poet wrote during this period have been scripted and researched by noted theatre personality Salim Arif and composed by Talat. But it's not going to be a purely musical album; there will also be narrations (of Ghalib's letters) within the music. 'Being Ghalib, there is a touch of humour in the writing as well, which only adds to the overall effect,' says Talat.
What's more, Sonu and Talat will be singing the ghazals together. Sonu, who will once again experiment with this album (ghazals aren't exactly his forte), admits that he's doing the album because it's 'different, interesting and knowledgeable. I didn't know too much about Ghalib, and I'm sure most of the current generation doesn't know a lot about him either,' says Sonu. But will his fans accept him in a new light? 'Ghazals have been part of my music, but only a small part. This album is something fresh, something different. It's like old wine in a new bottle,' says Sonu.
He is also doing an infectious dance track single...he promises to make India dance...Its the first time in India something of this sort is being done
Sonu Niigaam-The best singer in the country
He has sung over in over 10000 films for almost all the actors in the country from Big B to Shahid Kapoor..King Khan to Sallu Mia....the songs are too many to name.....So here are a few of my favs in no particular order
Kal Ho Na Ho
Saathiya
Baawri Piya(Baabul)
Tanhayee(DCH)
Tujh Sang Bandhi Dor(Dev)
Tu Mila De(Saawan the love season)
Do Kadam aur Sahi(Meenaxi)
Rang De Basanti chola(LOBS)
Piya Bole,Bhaaee Bhor(Dharm)
Dheere Jalna(Paheli)
Tumse Milke(Main Hoon na)
Songs of Parineeta(all the three)
Sarfaroshi ki tamanna(LOBS)
Desh ki mitti,Ekla Chalo(Bose)
Bande me tha Dum(Lage raho Munnabhai)
Mere Haath Me(Fanaa)
Dekho Naa(Fanaa)
Kismat Se Tum(Pukar)
Ishq Bina(Taal)
Kuch tum kaho(Shararat)
Panchi Nadiyan(Refugee)
Main Agar Kahoon(Om Shanti Om)
Ishq Hua,Is Pal(Aaja Nachle)
Kabhi Alvida Na Kehna(KANK)
Tumhi Dekho Na(KANK)
Ek saathi aur(LOC)
Songs of Refugee(Panchi Nadiyan,Aisa Lagta hai,Mere Humsafar,Taal pe jab ye)
Satrangi re(Dil Se)
Behka Diya Humein(Umrao Jaan)
Chup chup ke(BnB)
Sun Zara(Lucky)
Kitni Narmi Se(Dil Jo Bhi Kahe)
Sooni Hawa(Bollywood Hollywood)
Zindagi maut na(Sarfarosh)
Jaana Nahi tha(Blackmail)
Tere Dil ka(Koi Aap Sa)
Tu Jahan(Salaam Namaste)
Koi Aisa Alam(Karam)
Leti Hai Yeh Zindagi,Tumhe jitna(Shukriya)
Ajnabi Shehar,Sau Dard,Humko Maloom Hai(Jaan-E-Mann)
Haath se Haath Mila
Suraj hua Maddham(K3G)
Dholna(Hey Baby)
Nanhe Yaar(Nanhe Jaisalmer)
Tera Jadoo Chal Gaya
Do Pal(Veer Zaara)
Apne title track
Kyu Hawa(Veer Zaara)
Pal pal(Lage Raho Munnabhai)
Thirak Thirak,O re Paakhi,Yeh Nigahein(Khoya Khoya Chand)
Ae chand teri( Tera Jadoo Chal Gaya)
Pehli pehli baar(Sangharsh)
Aa mujhe raat din(Sangharsh)
Tu Fiza Hai(Fiza)
Bol Sajni(Doli Sajake Rakhna)
Yaar Mangiyasi(Kaante)
Anisuthide Yaako Indu(Mungaru Male)
Sandese Aate Hai(Border)
Mujhse naaraz(Papa Kehte hai)
Teri Noorani(Unns)
Bolo to,Khoya Khoya sa(Shabd)
U r my sonia(K3G)
Pyar Ki Ek Kahani(Krissh)
Koi Tumsa Nahin(Krissh)
Yeh Dil Deewana(Pardes)
Chori chori chupke se(Lucky)
Aate Jaate(HDJPK)
Songs of Salaam E Ishq
Banke Tera Jogi(PBDHH)
Main Hoon Naa(Main Hoon na)
Jeene Ke hai Char Din(MSK)
Songs from Dil Maange More
Ruki Ruki,Aasman kehta hai rab se(Mast)
Rang Daalo,Ishq me Dilko(Banaras)
Aaj Ki Raat(Don)
Title track,Mujhko Khuda ne,Ku Ku Ku(Pyar Tune Kya Kiya)
Khamoshiyan(One 2 ka four)
Javed Bhai So re le(Jaani Dushman)
Nachle Ve(Ta Ra Rum Pum)
Marhaba Marhaba(Deewaar)
Gori Tore Nain(Rules)
Pyar se pyare tum ho(Deewaangee)
Yeh Bekhudi Deewanagi(Tumko Na Bhool Paayenge)
Jaagte Raho(Just Married)
Kitni Der Tak(delhi Heights)
Bolo Kyaa Khayal Hai(Love in Nepal)
Title track,chalte chalte,mera hindustan hai,shaava pardesiyo(Kaash Aap Hamare Hote)
Columbus,Kehne ko Dadi(Jeans)
O Mahive(Kyaa Yahi Pyar Hai)
Shehar ka Jadoo,Mujhe tune,Holi Re(Mumbai se Aaya mera dost)
I am in Love(Neil N Nikki)
Just Chill(MPKK)
Halka Halka(Chocolate)
Aaja Soniye(MSK)
Jal Jal Ke Dhuan(Ek Khiladi Ek Haseena)
Saamne Aati Ho,Cham se(Dus)
Jaane dil me kabse(Mujhse Dosti Karoge)
Jaage Jaage(Mere Yaar ki Shaadi Hai)
Mujhe Pyar Do,title track(Ab Tumhare Hawale Watan Saathiyo)
Rabba Ishq na Hove(Andaaz)
Meri Zindagi me Aaye ho(Armaan)
Tumpe Lo aa ruka hai(Uff Kya Jadoo Mohabbat Hai)
Naiyyo Naiyyo(Soldier)
Bole Chudiyan(K3G)
Gumshuda(Chalte Chalte)
Adaa(Garam Masala)
Chak De(Hum Tum)
Chal Pyar Karegi(jab Pyar Kisise Hota Hai)
Chale Bhi Aao(Madhoshi)
Bhangra Pale(Anthony Kaun Hai)
Humse Rahoge Kyaa(Aur Pyar Ho Gaya)
Pyar Aaya(Barsaat)
Yeh Un Dinon Ki(Tumse Accha Kaun Hai)
Pardesi(Kahin Pyar Na Hojaaye)
Dil Ne yeh Kaha Hai(Dhadkan)
Chain Ho,Dil me Jo Baat(Run)
Sabhi Andaaze(Sshhhh)
Kuch Meetha Ho Jaaye
Dil Vich Lagiya Ve,Mausam hai(Chup Chup Ke)
Dhalne Lagi Hai Raat(Intehaa)
Life Banjaayegi(Humraaz)
Chaahe Zubaan se,O Sahiba(Dil Hai Tumhara)
Vizhiyil(Kireedom)
Chori Chori,Pyar ka matlab.happy days(Om Jai Jagdish)
Kacchi Kaliyan(Laaga Chunari Me Daag)
Sonu Niigaam the Actor
Besides singing he has also tried his hand at acting
Movies released
Jaani Dushman
Kaash Aap Hamare Hote
Love in Nepal
He has signed another film Aankhon aankhon mein where he plays the role of a blind singer..The film is being directed by his friend Akashdeep..The shooting hasnt begun yet
Awards
Sonu Niigaam and Television
Sonuji has also captivated the small screen over the past 10 years.He successfully hosted Zee TV's musical Sa Re Ga Ma for 5 years...Then he went onto host the playful musical Quiz Kismey Kitna Hai Dum..Now he is known as the best judge of the Trimurti panel of INDIAN IDOL I and II
Sonu Niigaam and Radio
Sonu is presently playing the role of a radio Jockey for a show "life ki Dhun with Sonu Niigaam" a two hour show aired on Radio City 91 FM
RJ Sonu 'Niigaam' hits the waves
THE NEW RJ: After singing, doing films and being a jury member, Sonu Nigam will now RJ for a show in Radio City FM channel.
Mumbai: Sonu Nigam has a new career and a new name. After singing for films, acting in them, releasing his own albums and being a jury member on Indian Idol, Nigam will next try out radio jockeying. And the Nigam from now is Niigaam.
The star will be a radio jockey (RJ) on a 30-minute weekly show Life Ke Dhun With Sonu Nigam on Radio City FM channel. It's not a new career move, he says.
Adding letters to names is the latest fad among celebrities, who believe that do so will bring them good luck. 'I sign my name as Niigaam, for myself I am Niigaam but the public can call me whatever they want to,' Nigam confesses.
Nigam is a firm believer of numerology and claims he was instrumental in getting music composer Anu Mallik to change his name as well.
"When you meet Anu Mallik ask him about the spelling of his name, I got him to change his name from Annu to Anu. I don't want to take credit but Anu Mallik's life took a changed for good after changing his name," he quips.
Singing, acting, judging reality shows, now radio jockeying Nigam's done it all and is now readying him for a novel venture and may be add another feather to his cap.
Interviews of Sonu Niigaam-a few of his thoughts in his own words
Sonu Niigaam: You Can Be Good at Everything
Today he is a global icon, and yet behind the warmth, mischief and prodigious talent, you find a man who is a pretty straight shooter.
By: Kavita Chhibber
The versatility, diversity, power and range of Sonu Niigaam's voice has catapulted him to the top of the Indian music scene. He spearheaded the blockbuster show Saregama Pa to dizzying heights as he hosted one stellar legendary musician after another to judge some incredibly talented contestants. Both as a TV and radio show host, he brought brand Sonu to the fore in a natural and hard to imitate style. Today he is a global icon, and yet behind the warmth, mischief and prodigious talent, you find a man who is a pretty straight shooter. In an exclusive interview with Little India the singing superstar talks life, music and the recent media frenzy for locking horns with a well known journalist.
Your father's journey has been very different from yours. He was too proud to ask for work and never went to Bollywood, and here you are, the biggest singing superstar to emerge out of India in recent times.
My father's story is that of loneliness, isolation, poverty and hunger and of not having the support of his middle class family who were essentially government servants and couldn't understand his passion. My life began under his protection and we didn't live hand to mouth by then. If my parents ever fell short of money, we would just go out and do shows to make some. So his journey was more rigorous, mine was more emotional.
He chose not to go to Bollywood, because he had a lot of pride and wouldn't ask anyone for work, though he did ask for me.
My father gave me two pieces of advice when I headed for Bombay as a teenager to try my luck. He said, if you have to succeed you have to remain in the eye of those who you want to work with. Follow them, bug them constantly, show them you are a hard worker and available, and that you will deliver. Secondly, he said, either you can have fun in your youth and then labor in your middle and old age, or you work hard in your youth and enjoy your middle age and old age.
I'm glad I decided to do the latter and now as I turn 34, I am very secure both financially and emotionally.
You sang many cover versions of popular songs of the legends of yesteryear. What did you learn from that?
Well it was my father who made me look at what each singer brought to the table. So unlike some singers who would look at the song and lyrics and sing it their own way, I would study each singer and try to sing the song as close to the original, even breathing at the same spot where the legend had taken the breath. Studying stalwarts like Rafi ji, Manna Dey ji, Kishore ji and others gave me a very good understanding of how each voice functioned and because of that I have been able to constantly improve and change my voice, upgrading it to new levels and adapting it to different genres of music. When I sing, I can visualize the song in the voice of ten different singers, and then I blend the best of those voices to create a song. I know the day I stop trying to improve myself, is the day I will be left behind. In music you can never say even in a life time, "Oh I know everything."
You have been deeply influenced by Rafi and had said that you had come to the industry to fill the void left by him, and today you are doing something very special that you were hand picked for.
Yes I'm singing 18 of Rafi ji's most memorable songs with the Birmingham Symphony orchestra. When I was approached, I was a bit skeptical and wanted to make sure it was not a remix or cover version. But when I heard the tracks they were mind blowing. The symphonic sound gives a different dimension to Rafi ji's voice. I have done so much research on Rafi ji's voice that I don't think even Rafi ji could have analyzed his voice to that extent and those songs are known to me much more than they could be to anyone else. I think it will be a treat for listeners to hear a symphonic interpretation as grand as this is, of his music. I have finished 16 of the sings and two remain.
Hopefully that will be done soon.
You have sung both in the South and North Indian music industry. What sets them apart?
The gayaki ang, which is so appreciated in the South. You take a harkat (move your voice) and they appreciate it. In the North, you'll often run into conservative people, who have perhaps never heard of a harkat and they get intimidated and will say-yeh harkat kyon le rahe ho-seedha seedha gao (why are you creating inflections? Sing in a flat voice). I usually do what is best for the song without listening to them.
People keep talking about the golden period of Indian music that has gone by.
There were good musicians and bad musicians in every era. So it is not fair to say that. Music is a hreflection of the society we live in, and caters to the need of the times. Technology and marketing have changed the way music is presented today. And it is also easy to turn a mediocre artist into a star, because computer technology has made it very easy to take each word, sing it many times and keep deleting, cutting and pasting each word to create a perfect song. The tremendous respect Lata ji, Asha ji, Rafi ji and others commanded was because they sang each song in one take in real time. I recently did two songs for Pyare babu (Lakshmikant Pyarelal) in one take, but I also see so many composers who are clueless about where they want the song to go, so I will sing it ten different ways and then they choose what they like best.
A few days ago, you mentioned to me that you were harassed by a journalist who has made sexual advances at you for ages. When you rebuffed him he started writing derogatory stuff about you constantly. You finally named Subhash K Jha, a prominent veteran journalist, and outed him as a homosexual man. Your letter to his employer Times of India has made front page news and now I hear you are receiving death threats. Why give this man prominence by talking about him?
There are several reasons why I decided enough is enough. Subhash K Jha is someone who had constantly written positive things about me, but when he started making sexual innuendos in his conversations I told him I was not interested and to back off. I have all his messages saved. When he persisted I hrefused to give him any interviews and also told him to stay away from me. After that he went on a rampage where every two weeks I would see something nasty about me in print. I kept quiet thinking he will get tired of Sonu-bashing some day, but he has been relentless. The last article he wrote he said some things that were just so totally false while making another musician seem like the greatest star. I don't care if you don't like me or my music - you have every right to your opinion, but you cannot write blatant lies about me. I can still handle it but my parents, my sisters, and loved ones have been very upset by all this.
The media in India, until now, would boycott you if you say anything against any member of their fraternity and this man took full advantage of it writing damaging and derogatory things about anyone who hrefused to give him an interview. The legal recourses take forever, so many people just let things slide. I just decided I had had enough and wrote to the Times of India. I cannot believe why Amit ji, Shahrukh Khan, and others have not come forward to speak up against this man.
What really surprised me was the reaction of the media. I was very sure my letter won't be published, and that they were going to blacklist me. Instead not only was it published, but there were hour long discussions on CNN-IBN, Aaj Tak, and Mumbai Mirror, the big Times of India supplement in Mumbai has fired him from their paper.
I'm also pleasantly surprised at the number of celebrities from the film fraternity who have come forward and spoken in my support. The press and the industry in Bombay know what a terrible human being this man is, but he has sucked up to some important people. I hear that a legendary actor pays him a hefty sum to do his publicity and may be there are others he has latched on to, but I felt it was time his readers knew what he really was.
Yes I received death threats on my phone here in the US, and the police has been informed. I feel safe here, and I think things will have been resolved by the time I return to India.
One of the prime reasons I did this was to warn youngsters who are coming into this industry, to be very careful of who they talk to. If someone like me, an established member of the industry, can be sexually harassed and maligned, they can easily be intimidated into giving into predators like this man.
So many music shows have sprouted and so many singers are being turned into stars overnight and at such young ages. What do you make of all this. You are also a youth icon and so many kids imitate you and want to be like you, what tips would you give them?
The world has changed and marketing is playing a big role in music economics. These days there is lesser and lesser focus on integrity, talent and hard work. If you can market yourself well, you can be a star. But I'm a firm believer that in the long run the only way you will feel fulfilled and proud is if you have achieved success on the merits of your hard work and talent. So that is the path to take. And surround yourself with good people. I have a very small group of sensible and sensitive friends who allow me to take the time to hone my skills, surround me with positive energy and don't waste my time. If you stay true to yourself and work hard you will reach the top and even if someone manipulates their way in front of you, you will always be the one to earn the respect of others in the long run because of your integrity. The truth always comes out.
What are the exciting things in the work?
I first have a pure classical album coming out in 3-4 months and this is my toughest and most exciting project. It is an album composed by violinist Deepak Pandit who is like a brother to me and produced by Ajay Jhingan. We have done some very good work in it. Then there is the Rafi Album. I have also done a single, the first ever in the history of Indian music, a dance track. The project is being promoted by corporate houses like Reliance. It will be something you haven't seen before.
You have sung so many beautiful numbers, which would be your top five favorites?
Satrangi Re, Mera Rang De Basanti Chola, Soona Soona, from my new classical album which is easily my toughest song ever, Kal Ho Na Ho and Sandese Aaatey Hain, which is very close to my heart.
So is there anything else that you dream of doing? Also, you have managed to excel in so many things with such energy and dedication. How do you do that?
From the time I was a child, I have wanted to do one thing and I don't know if I will achieve all that I can in that area. I want to help the hijra (transgender) community in India. They receive no help from anyone and we shun them when they are in dire straits financially.
As for multi tasking, I believe in the mantra, you don't have to be successful in everything, but if you try, you can be good at everything!
SONU NIIGAAM THE PERFORMER
He is undoubtedly the best singer performer the country has seen.When most playback singers take the easy way out and use karaoke to perform..he maks it a point to give his listeners raw muzic..he takes a full band with him wherever he goes and entertains the listeners to the max..His endearing nature clicks perfectly with the audience and his music will leave anyone thirsty for more..He is in his own world when he is on stage and those 3 hours will be the best 3 hours for any muzic lover..Because what follows is better experienced tha explained...
Review on one of Sonu's soul-stirring shows
ON A GRAND MUSICAL JOURNEY Singing sensation Sonu Nigam performing at the concert. The crowd enjoying every moment of the show (below)
He kept the audience captivated with his rocking performance as he breathed new life into songs that you have heard a million times before. The venue was packed as thousands of fans gathered at the Andhra University Engineering College grounds to listen to the high-energy singer. Sonu Nigam, who was in the city for the first time for a concert organised by Idea Cellular Ltd., held the audience spell-bound with his magical voice giving new twists and turns to familiar songs.
The tickets got sold out a day before the event and the seats got filled an hour before the show. At 7.30 p.m., a dashing Sonu came on stage with his soul-stirring 'Kal Ho Na Ho...' as his brilliant band added the grand musical effect giving the melody, a slow emotional touch.
And there was the singing sensation at his best. "Thank you everyone for the wonderful welcome," he greeted the crowd as they screamed and waved at him and then added, "this evening will be the most memorable one for you all!"
It started off with the romantic numbers like 'Suraj Hua Madham...'adding a nostalgic effect to the mood of the evening. Then came the first gear shift of the evening. 'Rafta rafta...' he went and the crowd sprang to its feet. They hummed with the rocking Rehman track of 'Saathiya...' and to the melodious 'Chanda Ki Doli Mein...' that followed.
As he sang, Sonu went back to the memories of his struggling days. "After my first hit song 'Achha Sila Diya...', I used to get to sing only sad songs in films with tragic scenes. People thought that I was a depressed old man," he chuckled.
Indeed, for this talented singer, it was a tough and patient climb to the top of the charts. With stars in his eyes, he moved from Delhi to the city of dreams, Bombay, where he was to be hailed as the voice of the immortal Rafi Saheb. "I worship Mohd. Rafi. But with the changing times, I had to bring some improvisation in my voice," he said.
As he moved on with the musical evening, he involved the audience into dialogues, taking them with him in every moment of the trip.
Sometimes he just paused in between the song, prompting the audience to complete the song, always making sure that the audience remained captivated with his tasteful improvisations.
Keeping the crowd thoroughly entertained for two hours, he took them to an extraordinary musical journey sandwiching the modern fast numbers with an old melody or by announcing that he was going to sing a bhajan and breaking into the rocking 'Ghum Shuda...'.
Girls turned into cheerleaders as he sang 'Just chill...'. And in between, he entertained everyone with his jokes and amusing narration of incidents of his life. Giving him company was Indian Idol finalist Meenal who belted out a few fast numbers providing some break to Sonu.
The showman singer won many a heart as he ended the memorable musical evening with 'Kal Ho Na Ho...' leaving the audience asking for more
Social work
Main Hoon Na: Sonu Nigam to hearing impaired students
Sonu Nigam might have crooned his way up through commercial singing, but on Thursday afternoon at the Lion's School for the Hearing Impaired, Nigam matched duets for a cause - and giving him competition were the 30 odd speech and hearing impaired students. Not only did he entertain the students, but he also decided to present them a unique New Year gift - a set of 10 sophisticated hearing aids. An NRI from London also made a donation of 20 pieces of hearing machines.
'The donation will help our institute, since most of the students hail from poor homes. We had in fact given digital hearing equipment to a girl three months ago and it worked for her. She made huge progress. These new donations will be utilised in the best possible way,' remarked a teacher of the school.
Meanwhile, Nigam has been stationed at Rajkot for a series of stage shows that he is doing for a cellular brand and in fact came on the venue directly from the airport. He was invited by friend and actor Kunika. 'I thought it might be for cancer patients or some other cause, because Kunika is always involved in social work. It is strange that my audience are these children, because they can't hear properly. Yet in a way they are my audience,' he says. The singer, who also handed over some other gifts to the kids, kept them entertained throughout. He sang songs from 'Kaho Na Pyar Hai' and 'Main Hoon Na' for the children. Needless to say, they seemed impressed. Evidently, he turned out to be as popular with the kids, as with the music connoisseurs.
SPIRITUAL INCLINATION
He is a very spiritually inclined person and his trust in God and faith in himself has made him what he is today.
His trip to the Himalayas
The fast-paced life of Bollywood has a way of taking its toll on people. The most recent is playback singer Sonu Niigam who went to Nandadevi Parvat, in the Himalayas, in search of peace and tranquility.
FAMILY
His near family consists of his dad Mr.Agam Kumar Nigam and mom Mrs.Shobha Nigam...Sisters Meenal Nigam and Neekita NIgam..Meenal Di is married to Ravi Bhaiyya..they have a son whom hez very fond of..Lama..his wife Madurima Nigam..His manager and a brother 2 him Ben Thomas..
And NEWS...SONU BHAIYYA AND MADHU BHABHI HAVE BEEN BLESSED WITH A LIL BABY BOY....NEVAAN NIIGAAM...Nevaan is an Irish word which means holy...Like bhaiyya has been a dutiful son,a loving brother,a very caring and considerate husband..I am sure he'll make a wonderful dad too...God bless the lil angel...
Anyone who wants to join..anyone who has true respect and love for this maestro.. can contact me.....thts SHYAMA.....
Last Ink Drop
I have been a huuuuge follower of his muzic for over 13 years now..No song he sings escapes me..He is my Guru,my Idol,role model,my brother,my musical father...my God..I call him bhaiyya...and he is the biggest inspiration of my life..I love him more than my life...I pray to God that he is always happy..safe and sound..always smiling...God bless him and his wonderful family always..
MEMBERS LIST
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SONU NIIGAAM the most versatile,soulful and multi-talented singer the country ever had.....It cant get better than dis......
This sur ke jaadugar was born on the 30th of July 1973 to Mr.Agam Kumar Nigam and Mrs.Shobha Nigam in Faridabad...His first live stage performance was at the age of 3 when he very enthusiastically went on stage and sang "kyaa Hua tera vaada..."He has had his tough times in life when he had to struggle to prove himself to the world..He had to act as a child actor in movies and do shows to make a living...he was shunned and refused and his eyes did fill up a few times...but never did his spirit die...he worked his heart and soul out and his sincerity and dedication paid off....God had sent him to earth with a purpose...
His first break in bollywood was the song Acha sila diya from Sanam Bewafa...Bless the soul of Gulshan Kumarji who recognized his talent...That song went on to become a huge hit..but he was then branded to be a singer fit for only sad occasions...he was not to accept that at such a young age...he worked to change his style..He was considered to be a Mohd.Rafi impersonation by most..but he had to prove himself..there is a lot more to Sonu Niigaam than that...Yes Rafi Saab is definitely his mentor and his biggest inspiration but he wouldnt confine himself...In just a few years he proved himself to be the most versatile singer ever... and the rest we all know is history...whether as boy next door..Mr cute and charming...or as the most respected and adored singer in the country...or one of the most talented and capable musicians in India...People absolutely love him..and that is his strength...Presently considered by all in the industry as the best singer in the country there is no stopping him any more..
He has become the best voice for all superstars and the safest choice for music directors to do justice to any song...He is undoubtedly one of the most vocally capable singers in the country...calling him Ustad Sonu Niigaam wudnt be a misnomer...He loves being on stage and anybody who has attended his concerts will most definitely agree that he is the best singer-performer the country has ever seen..his zeal,enthusiasm and more than everything total commitment and dedication to whatever he does makes him the role model and Icon of thousands of aspiring singers all over the country...He is also an accomplished TV Host, an awesome RJ and a mindblowing mimic..To add to his credits he is also a fabulous music director and very imaginative lyricist...His compositions in Chanda Ki Doli were distinct in style and class and definitely would give the topmost music directors in India a run for their money...So many talents and one human being.....
He is also a gem of a human being...In addition to his talent, major catalysts for his success has been his dedication,sincerity and his humility..He never assumes himself to be the best...He always believes in learning more and more and exploring himself..He will perform two hours non-stop on stage when he is running a high fever because he doesnt want to disappoint his fans or make the organizers incur losses...Thats Sonu Niigaam for u..He is one of the most amiable and loving human beings you will see..He has earned love and respect from whoever has interacted with him...
"yeh khuda ke roop me insaan hai yaa insaan ke roop me khuda"........
With millions and millions of fans and a coveted national award to his credit,here is presenting to u all the multi talented multifacteted and the absolutely charming and amiable SONU NIIGAAM..
Sonu Niigaam's Address
Sonu Nigam
1201,12th Floor
Amarnath Tower,Amarnath Lane,
J.P.Road,7 Bunglows,
Andheri(west)
Bombay - 400061
INDIA
website : sonuniigaam.in...is under construction
Private Albums
Sapne Ki baat
Kismat
Deewana
Mausam
Jaan
Yaad
Chanda Ki Doli(self composed)
Sanskar(devotional)
Kudi Mili Hai Kamaal(Punjabi)
Sonu composes for his new album!
After singing and trying his hand in acting Sonu is back with something new and different - music direction. Returning with a music album after almost four years, the singer has composed all the nine songs for his album titled 'Chanda Ka Doli'
The album has been produced by T-Series. On the album Sonu says, Bhushan (Kumar, owner of T-Series) caught me programming something at my computer in my home studio last year. He liked the stuff so much that he suggested that it should be made the opening song of my new album. I ended up composing 12 songs and we chose 9 from them.
Upcoming:A semi-classical album under the banner of Sare gama HMV which he has finished recording in his personally acquired studio..The music for the album has been composed by violinist Deepak Pandit..The album has 8 tracks...A treat for music lovers
The album is called Classically Mild and it is slated for worldwide release on Feb 11th 2008.
Sonu Nigam purchases a recording studio
Singer Sonu Nigam has purchased himself a recording studio in Mumbai. Sonu says that music industry has become a big business today and therefore he wants to make the most out of it. He has his own team of musicians and technicians to engineer the work. On asking whether he will rent his studio to other singers, Sonu replies that he would definitely allow other singers to record their albums there.
The singer is currently recording his solo album in his newly acquired studio in the Lokhandwala complex.
Rafi Resurrected
In a first of its kind recording in the world, the city of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra, an elite 80 member outfit, has joined hands with India's leading vocalist, Sonu Niigaam, to create a unique first of its kind album, 'Rafi Resurrected''
The album originated from a discussion that composer / arranger for the Orchestra, Tim Pottier had with an Indian friend over two years ago. This got Tim interested in Indian film music and Mohammad Rafi in particular and over the course of the next one year, Pottier listened to dozens of Rafi songs in search of material that would work when played by a symphony orchestra. He finally chose the 18 songs that appear on this album and these were performed at a show in Birmingham early April, last year.
The CBSO then approached Sa Re Ga Ma with the vision of releasing an album. The company took the concept a step further by requesting the one person who does the best rendition of Mohammad Rafi and considers him his 'spiritual Guru', to bring his magic to the album ' Sonu Niigaam, the singer who has a karmic connection with 'His' Rafi Saab.
The CBSO parts were recorded in Birmingham and Sonu will now dub the resultant tracks Mumbai from April 18, at Empire Studios.
Sonu is as enthusiastic about the project as Sa Re Ga Ma, despite having refused to cover songs by Mohammad Rafi on several occasions in the recent past. 'I share Sa Re Ga Ma's vision of taking Indian music to a higher platform through endeavors like this,' says Sonu. 'It is time due recognition was given to Rafi Saab who is like my unseen father in the Heavens and whom I revere like a son does'.
Pottier is equally enthusiastic about having Sonu being the voice of the project. 'He is an astonishingly talented singer,' he says. 'I heard him sing two of the songs in 15 minutes flat when I visited Mumbai recently and was absolutely blown away. He is unbelievable!!'
'Rafi Resurrected...' is an 18 song extravaganza that for the first time combines a symphonic interpretation of Indian film music. The songs included such gems as the 1963 'Yaad Na Jaaye Beete Dinon Ki' from the film 'Dil Ek Mandir', the ever popular 'Tareef Karoo Kya Uski' from the film 'Kashmir Ki Kali', 'Pathar Ke Sanam' from the film of the same name to the absolutely brilliant 'Tum Jo Mil Gaye Ho' from the film 'Hanste Zakhm' which was composed by Madan Mohan and written by Kaifi Azmi.
Sa Re Ga Ma feels that the album could be the start of a series of Indian music collaborations between artists of different styles and help to put Indian music on the global platform. 'Rafi Resurrected...' is scheduled for worldwide release in July this year.
and the third album which u can expect in future is...
Remembering 1857 in 2007
Talat Aziz and Sonu Nigaam come together for a ghazal album on the mutiny of 1857
May 11, 2007 marked the 150th anniversary of the Revolt of 1857. And what better way to remember the event than through music, the food of life. Ghazal maestro Talat Aziz and king of Bollywood and pop Sonu Nigaam are coming together for an album on the celebrated poet Mirza Ghalib and his observations of the 1857 mutiny. Speaking of this rather unusual project, Talat explains, 'I wanted to do something that was traditional, yet had a new dimension to it. Ghazals being my forte, I thought of putting the works of Ghalib to music. But I wanted to focus on just one aspect of his life, the most significant of which were his experiences during the mutiny.'
Select letters and ghazals that the poet wrote during this period have been scripted and researched by noted theatre personality Salim Arif and composed by Talat. But it's not going to be a purely musical album; there will also be narrations (of Ghalib's letters) within the music. 'Being Ghalib, there is a touch of humour in the writing as well, which only adds to the overall effect,' says Talat.
What's more, Sonu and Talat will be singing the ghazals together. Sonu, who will once again experiment with this album (ghazals aren't exactly his forte), admits that he's doing the album because it's 'different, interesting and knowledgeable. I didn't know too much about Ghalib, and I'm sure most of the current generation doesn't know a lot about him either,' says Sonu. But will his fans accept him in a new light? 'Ghazals have been part of my music, but only a small part. This album is something fresh, something different. It's like old wine in a new bottle,' says Sonu.
He is also doing an infectious dance track single...he promises to make India dance...Its the first time in India something of this sort is being done
Sonu Niigaam-The best singer in the country
He has sung over in over 10000 films for almost all the actors in the country from Big B to Shahid Kapoor..King Khan to Sallu Mia....the songs are too many to name.....So here are a few of my favs in no particular order
Kal Ho Na Ho
Saathiya
Baawri Piya(Baabul)
Tanhayee(DCH)
Tujh Sang Bandhi Dor(Dev)
Tu Mila De(Saawan the love season)
Do Kadam aur Sahi(Meenaxi)
Rang De Basanti chola(LOBS)
Piya Bole,Bhaaee Bhor(Dharm)
Dheere Jalna(Paheli)
Tumse Milke(Main Hoon na)
Songs of Parineeta(all the three)
Sarfaroshi ki tamanna(LOBS)
Desh ki mitti,Ekla Chalo(Bose)
Bande me tha Dum(Lage raho Munnabhai)
Mere Haath Me(Fanaa)
Dekho Naa(Fanaa)
Kismat Se Tum(Pukar)
Ishq Bina(Taal)
Kuch tum kaho(Shararat)
Panchi Nadiyan(Refugee)
Main Agar Kahoon(Om Shanti Om)
Ishq Hua,Is Pal(Aaja Nachle)
Kabhi Alvida Na Kehna(KANK)
Tumhi Dekho Na(KANK)
Ek saathi aur(LOC)
Songs of Refugee(Panchi Nadiyan,Aisa Lagta hai,Mere Humsafar,Taal pe jab ye)
Satrangi re(Dil Se)
Behka Diya Humein(Umrao Jaan)
Chup chup ke(BnB)
Sun Zara(Lucky)
Kitni Narmi Se(Dil Jo Bhi Kahe)
Sooni Hawa(Bollywood Hollywood)
Zindagi maut na(Sarfarosh)
Jaana Nahi tha(Blackmail)
Tere Dil ka(Koi Aap Sa)
Tu Jahan(Salaam Namaste)
Koi Aisa Alam(Karam)
Leti Hai Yeh Zindagi,Tumhe jitna(Shukriya)
Ajnabi Shehar,Sau Dard,Humko Maloom Hai(Jaan-E-Mann)
Haath se Haath Mila
Suraj hua Maddham(K3G)
Dholna(Hey Baby)
Nanhe Yaar(Nanhe Jaisalmer)
Tera Jadoo Chal Gaya
Do Pal(Veer Zaara)
Apne title track
Kyu Hawa(Veer Zaara)
Pal pal(Lage Raho Munnabhai)
Thirak Thirak,O re Paakhi,Yeh Nigahein(Khoya Khoya Chand)
Ae chand teri( Tera Jadoo Chal Gaya)
Pehli pehli baar(Sangharsh)
Aa mujhe raat din(Sangharsh)
Tu Fiza Hai(Fiza)
Bol Sajni(Doli Sajake Rakhna)
Yaar Mangiyasi(Kaante)
Anisuthide Yaako Indu(Mungaru Male)
Sandese Aate Hai(Border)
Mujhse naaraz(Papa Kehte hai)
Teri Noorani(Unns)
Bolo to,Khoya Khoya sa(Shabd)
U r my sonia(K3G)
Pyar Ki Ek Kahani(Krissh)
Koi Tumsa Nahin(Krissh)
Yeh Dil Deewana(Pardes)
Chori chori chupke se(Lucky)
Aate Jaate(HDJPK)
Songs of Salaam E Ishq
Banke Tera Jogi(PBDHH)
Main Hoon Naa(Main Hoon na)
Jeene Ke hai Char Din(MSK)
Songs from Dil Maange More
Ruki Ruki,Aasman kehta hai rab se(Mast)
Rang Daalo,Ishq me Dilko(Banaras)
Aaj Ki Raat(Don)
Title track,Mujhko Khuda ne,Ku Ku Ku(Pyar Tune Kya Kiya)
Khamoshiyan(One 2 ka four)
Javed Bhai So re le(Jaani Dushman)
Nachle Ve(Ta Ra Rum Pum)
Marhaba Marhaba(Deewaar)
Gori Tore Nain(Rules)
Pyar se pyare tum ho(Deewaangee)
Yeh Bekhudi Deewanagi(Tumko Na Bhool Paayenge)
Jaagte Raho(Just Married)
Kitni Der Tak(delhi Heights)
Bolo Kyaa Khayal Hai(Love in Nepal)
Title track,chalte chalte,mera hindustan hai,shaava pardesiyo(Kaash Aap Hamare Hote)
Columbus,Kehne ko Dadi(Jeans)
O Mahive(Kyaa Yahi Pyar Hai)
Shehar ka Jadoo,Mujhe tune,Holi Re(Mumbai se Aaya mera dost)
I am in Love(Neil N Nikki)
Just Chill(MPKK)
Halka Halka(Chocolate)
Aaja Soniye(MSK)
Jal Jal Ke Dhuan(Ek Khiladi Ek Haseena)
Saamne Aati Ho,Cham se(Dus)
Jaane dil me kabse(Mujhse Dosti Karoge)
Jaage Jaage(Mere Yaar ki Shaadi Hai)
Mujhe Pyar Do,title track(Ab Tumhare Hawale Watan Saathiyo)
Rabba Ishq na Hove(Andaaz)
Meri Zindagi me Aaye ho(Armaan)
Tumpe Lo aa ruka hai(Uff Kya Jadoo Mohabbat Hai)
Naiyyo Naiyyo(Soldier)
Bole Chudiyan(K3G)
Gumshuda(Chalte Chalte)
Adaa(Garam Masala)
Chak De(Hum Tum)
Chal Pyar Karegi(jab Pyar Kisise Hota Hai)
Chale Bhi Aao(Madhoshi)
Bhangra Pale(Anthony Kaun Hai)
Humse Rahoge Kyaa(Aur Pyar Ho Gaya)
Pyar Aaya(Barsaat)
Yeh Un Dinon Ki(Tumse Accha Kaun Hai)
Pardesi(Kahin Pyar Na Hojaaye)
Dil Ne yeh Kaha Hai(Dhadkan)
Chain Ho,Dil me Jo Baat(Run)
Sabhi Andaaze(Sshhhh)
Kuch Meetha Ho Jaaye
Dil Vich Lagiya Ve,Mausam hai(Chup Chup Ke)
Dhalne Lagi Hai Raat(Intehaa)
Life Banjaayegi(Humraaz)
Chaahe Zubaan se,O Sahiba(Dil Hai Tumhara)
Vizhiyil(Kireedom)
Chori Chori,Pyar ka matlab.happy days(Om Jai Jagdish)
Kacchi Kaliyan(Laaga Chunari Me Daag)
Sonu Niigaam the Actor
Besides singing he has also tried his hand at acting
Movies released
Jaani Dushman
Kaash Aap Hamare Hote
Love in Nepal
He has signed another film Aankhon aankhon mein where he plays the role of a blind singer..The film is being directed by his friend Akashdeep..The shooting hasnt begun yet
Awards
- 2005, Swaralaya Yesudas Award, for his outstanding performance in Music.
- 2005, MTV Immies - Best Pop Album, for his self-composed album titled "Chanda Ki Doli".
- 2005, Star Screen Award Best Male Playback, for the song "Dheere Jalna", from the film "Paheli"
- 2004, MTV Immies - Best Male Singer, for the song "Main Hoon Na", from the film "Main Hoon Na"
- 2004, National Film Award for Best Male Playback Singer, for the song "Kal Ho Naa Ho", from the film Kal Ho Naa Ho
- 2004, IIFA Best Male Playback Award, for the song "Kal Ho Naa Ho", from the film Kal Ho Naa Ho
- 2004, Star Screen Award Best Male Playback for the song "Main Hoon Na" from the film Main Hoon Na
- 2003, Filmfare Best Male Playback Award, for the song "Kal Ho Naa Ho", from the film Kal Ho Naa Ho".
- 2003, Zee Cine Award Best Playback Singer- Male, for the song "Saathiya", from the film "Saathiya"
- 2003, IIFA Best Male Playback Award, for the song "Saathiya", from the film "Saathiya"
- 2003, MTV Immies - Best Male Singer, for the sing "Saathiya" from the film "Saathiya".
- 2002, Filmfare Best Male Playback Award, for the song "Saathiya", from the film Saathiya.
- 2002, Zee Cine Award Best Playback Singer- Male, for the song "Suraj Hua Maddham", from the film "Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham"
- 2002, IIFA Best Male Playback Award, for the song "Suraj Hua Maddham", from the film "Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham"
- 2001, Star Screen Award Best Male Playback, for the song "Tanhayee", from the film "Dil Chahta Hai"
- 1998, Zee Cine Award Best Playback Singer- Male, for the song "Sandese Aate Hai", from the film "Border"
Sonu Niigaam and Television
Sonuji has also captivated the small screen over the past 10 years.He successfully hosted Zee TV's musical Sa Re Ga Ma for 5 years...Then he went onto host the playful musical Quiz Kismey Kitna Hai Dum..Now he is known as the best judge of the Trimurti panel of INDIAN IDOL I and II
Sonu Niigaam and Radio
Sonu is presently playing the role of a radio Jockey for a show "life ki Dhun with Sonu Niigaam" a two hour show aired on Radio City 91 FM
RJ Sonu 'Niigaam' hits the waves
THE NEW RJ: After singing, doing films and being a jury member, Sonu Nigam will now RJ for a show in Radio City FM channel.
Mumbai: Sonu Nigam has a new career and a new name. After singing for films, acting in them, releasing his own albums and being a jury member on Indian Idol, Nigam will next try out radio jockeying. And the Nigam from now is Niigaam.
The star will be a radio jockey (RJ) on a 30-minute weekly show Life Ke Dhun With Sonu Nigam on Radio City FM channel. It's not a new career move, he says.
Adding letters to names is the latest fad among celebrities, who believe that do so will bring them good luck. 'I sign my name as Niigaam, for myself I am Niigaam but the public can call me whatever they want to,' Nigam confesses.
Nigam is a firm believer of numerology and claims he was instrumental in getting music composer Anu Mallik to change his name as well.
"When you meet Anu Mallik ask him about the spelling of his name, I got him to change his name from Annu to Anu. I don't want to take credit but Anu Mallik's life took a changed for good after changing his name," he quips.
Singing, acting, judging reality shows, now radio jockeying Nigam's done it all and is now readying him for a novel venture and may be add another feather to his cap.
Interviews of Sonu Niigaam-a few of his thoughts in his own words
Sonu Niigaam: You Can Be Good at Everything
Today he is a global icon, and yet behind the warmth, mischief and prodigious talent, you find a man who is a pretty straight shooter.
By: Kavita Chhibber
The versatility, diversity, power and range of Sonu Niigaam's voice has catapulted him to the top of the Indian music scene. He spearheaded the blockbuster show Saregama Pa to dizzying heights as he hosted one stellar legendary musician after another to judge some incredibly talented contestants. Both as a TV and radio show host, he brought brand Sonu to the fore in a natural and hard to imitate style. Today he is a global icon, and yet behind the warmth, mischief and prodigious talent, you find a man who is a pretty straight shooter. In an exclusive interview with Little India the singing superstar talks life, music and the recent media frenzy for locking horns with a well known journalist.
Your father's journey has been very different from yours. He was too proud to ask for work and never went to Bollywood, and here you are, the biggest singing superstar to emerge out of India in recent times.
My father's story is that of loneliness, isolation, poverty and hunger and of not having the support of his middle class family who were essentially government servants and couldn't understand his passion. My life began under his protection and we didn't live hand to mouth by then. If my parents ever fell short of money, we would just go out and do shows to make some. So his journey was more rigorous, mine was more emotional.
He chose not to go to Bollywood, because he had a lot of pride and wouldn't ask anyone for work, though he did ask for me.
My father gave me two pieces of advice when I headed for Bombay as a teenager to try my luck. He said, if you have to succeed you have to remain in the eye of those who you want to work with. Follow them, bug them constantly, show them you are a hard worker and available, and that you will deliver. Secondly, he said, either you can have fun in your youth and then labor in your middle and old age, or you work hard in your youth and enjoy your middle age and old age.
I'm glad I decided to do the latter and now as I turn 34, I am very secure both financially and emotionally.
You sang many cover versions of popular songs of the legends of yesteryear. What did you learn from that?
Well it was my father who made me look at what each singer brought to the table. So unlike some singers who would look at the song and lyrics and sing it their own way, I would study each singer and try to sing the song as close to the original, even breathing at the same spot where the legend had taken the breath. Studying stalwarts like Rafi ji, Manna Dey ji, Kishore ji and others gave me a very good understanding of how each voice functioned and because of that I have been able to constantly improve and change my voice, upgrading it to new levels and adapting it to different genres of music. When I sing, I can visualize the song in the voice of ten different singers, and then I blend the best of those voices to create a song. I know the day I stop trying to improve myself, is the day I will be left behind. In music you can never say even in a life time, "Oh I know everything."
You have been deeply influenced by Rafi and had said that you had come to the industry to fill the void left by him, and today you are doing something very special that you were hand picked for.
Yes I'm singing 18 of Rafi ji's most memorable songs with the Birmingham Symphony orchestra. When I was approached, I was a bit skeptical and wanted to make sure it was not a remix or cover version. But when I heard the tracks they were mind blowing. The symphonic sound gives a different dimension to Rafi ji's voice. I have done so much research on Rafi ji's voice that I don't think even Rafi ji could have analyzed his voice to that extent and those songs are known to me much more than they could be to anyone else. I think it will be a treat for listeners to hear a symphonic interpretation as grand as this is, of his music. I have finished 16 of the sings and two remain.
Hopefully that will be done soon.
You have sung both in the South and North Indian music industry. What sets them apart?
The gayaki ang, which is so appreciated in the South. You take a harkat (move your voice) and they appreciate it. In the North, you'll often run into conservative people, who have perhaps never heard of a harkat and they get intimidated and will say-yeh harkat kyon le rahe ho-seedha seedha gao (why are you creating inflections? Sing in a flat voice). I usually do what is best for the song without listening to them.
People keep talking about the golden period of Indian music that has gone by.
There were good musicians and bad musicians in every era. So it is not fair to say that. Music is a hreflection of the society we live in, and caters to the need of the times. Technology and marketing have changed the way music is presented today. And it is also easy to turn a mediocre artist into a star, because computer technology has made it very easy to take each word, sing it many times and keep deleting, cutting and pasting each word to create a perfect song. The tremendous respect Lata ji, Asha ji, Rafi ji and others commanded was because they sang each song in one take in real time. I recently did two songs for Pyare babu (Lakshmikant Pyarelal) in one take, but I also see so many composers who are clueless about where they want the song to go, so I will sing it ten different ways and then they choose what they like best.
A few days ago, you mentioned to me that you were harassed by a journalist who has made sexual advances at you for ages. When you rebuffed him he started writing derogatory stuff about you constantly. You finally named Subhash K Jha, a prominent veteran journalist, and outed him as a homosexual man. Your letter to his employer Times of India has made front page news and now I hear you are receiving death threats. Why give this man prominence by talking about him?
There are several reasons why I decided enough is enough. Subhash K Jha is someone who had constantly written positive things about me, but when he started making sexual innuendos in his conversations I told him I was not interested and to back off. I have all his messages saved. When he persisted I hrefused to give him any interviews and also told him to stay away from me. After that he went on a rampage where every two weeks I would see something nasty about me in print. I kept quiet thinking he will get tired of Sonu-bashing some day, but he has been relentless. The last article he wrote he said some things that were just so totally false while making another musician seem like the greatest star. I don't care if you don't like me or my music - you have every right to your opinion, but you cannot write blatant lies about me. I can still handle it but my parents, my sisters, and loved ones have been very upset by all this.
The media in India, until now, would boycott you if you say anything against any member of their fraternity and this man took full advantage of it writing damaging and derogatory things about anyone who hrefused to give him an interview. The legal recourses take forever, so many people just let things slide. I just decided I had had enough and wrote to the Times of India. I cannot believe why Amit ji, Shahrukh Khan, and others have not come forward to speak up against this man.
What really surprised me was the reaction of the media. I was very sure my letter won't be published, and that they were going to blacklist me. Instead not only was it published, but there were hour long discussions on CNN-IBN, Aaj Tak, and Mumbai Mirror, the big Times of India supplement in Mumbai has fired him from their paper.
I'm also pleasantly surprised at the number of celebrities from the film fraternity who have come forward and spoken in my support. The press and the industry in Bombay know what a terrible human being this man is, but he has sucked up to some important people. I hear that a legendary actor pays him a hefty sum to do his publicity and may be there are others he has latched on to, but I felt it was time his readers knew what he really was.
Yes I received death threats on my phone here in the US, and the police has been informed. I feel safe here, and I think things will have been resolved by the time I return to India.
One of the prime reasons I did this was to warn youngsters who are coming into this industry, to be very careful of who they talk to. If someone like me, an established member of the industry, can be sexually harassed and maligned, they can easily be intimidated into giving into predators like this man.
So many music shows have sprouted and so many singers are being turned into stars overnight and at such young ages. What do you make of all this. You are also a youth icon and so many kids imitate you and want to be like you, what tips would you give them?
The world has changed and marketing is playing a big role in music economics. These days there is lesser and lesser focus on integrity, talent and hard work. If you can market yourself well, you can be a star. But I'm a firm believer that in the long run the only way you will feel fulfilled and proud is if you have achieved success on the merits of your hard work and talent. So that is the path to take. And surround yourself with good people. I have a very small group of sensible and sensitive friends who allow me to take the time to hone my skills, surround me with positive energy and don't waste my time. If you stay true to yourself and work hard you will reach the top and even if someone manipulates their way in front of you, you will always be the one to earn the respect of others in the long run because of your integrity. The truth always comes out.
What are the exciting things in the work?
I first have a pure classical album coming out in 3-4 months and this is my toughest and most exciting project. It is an album composed by violinist Deepak Pandit who is like a brother to me and produced by Ajay Jhingan. We have done some very good work in it. Then there is the Rafi Album. I have also done a single, the first ever in the history of Indian music, a dance track. The project is being promoted by corporate houses like Reliance. It will be something you haven't seen before.
You have sung so many beautiful numbers, which would be your top five favorites?
Satrangi Re, Mera Rang De Basanti Chola, Soona Soona, from my new classical album which is easily my toughest song ever, Kal Ho Na Ho and Sandese Aaatey Hain, which is very close to my heart.
So is there anything else that you dream of doing? Also, you have managed to excel in so many things with such energy and dedication. How do you do that?
From the time I was a child, I have wanted to do one thing and I don't know if I will achieve all that I can in that area. I want to help the hijra (transgender) community in India. They receive no help from anyone and we shun them when they are in dire straits financially.
As for multi tasking, I believe in the mantra, you don't have to be successful in everything, but if you try, you can be good at everything!
The idol of many singers is about to expand his musical horizons
You've become a youth icon among singing aspirants.
I had not noticed this development until two to three years ago when Shaan told me that many of the songs that the contestants sang on Sa Re Ga Ma Pa were mine. Now, when I'm a judge on Indian Idol I do realise that the contestants tend sing my difficult songs like 'Tera jadoo chal gaya', 'Zindagi maut na ban jaye' and 'Satrangi re'. I've now begun to realise that good work always reaches people's hearts. So I just do my work. As a singer I'm far from perfect and maybe I'll never get there, but there is no harm in trying. I am 32 and hope to do a lot as a human and a singer in the years to come.
Are you being challenged enough as a singer?
I don't think the film industry is able to provide sufficient opportunities for me, so I have to create my own challenges. This year I have some great songs in Karan Johar's Kabhi Alvidaa Na Kehna, Shirish Kunder's Jaan-e-Man, Kunal Kohli's Fanaah, Nikhil Advani's Salaam-e-Ishq, Rakesh Roshan's Krisshh, J.P. Dutta's Umrao Jaan and Farhan Akhtar's Don. But the challenge I experience when I sing a classical song where I've to work on a particular harkat or an alaap is missing. Films don't provide me songs like that. All tracks today are deejay-designed and private albums are dead. The furthest I could go with a non-film pop album was Chanda Ki Doli where I showed some of my classical creativity . I've therefore decided to come out with a semi-classical album. I might as well do something I believe in and something I'd be proud of forty years from now.
Have you sung 'Khai ke paan Baneraswala' in the Don remake?
I wish I had. As a child I used to dance to that song on stage. By the time I asked Shankar-Ehsan-Loy whether I could do it, they had already asked Udit Narayan to sing it. With his North Indian background he's the right person to do it.
What do you feel about Himesh Reshammiya's sudden success as a singer?
It's easy to criticise someone's singing for being nasal. Who sets the rules for how a song should be sung? Times are changing and different voice types are entering the industry and being accepted. With Himesh, at least a distinctive voice from within the country has found acceptance. Otherwise we've lately had strange voices from outside India, no matter how besura (out of tune), becoming successful.
What did you think of all the singers who have come from Pakistan?
A few are good. But most of them are strictly okay. In a country that has been blessed with a Lata Mangeshkar and Mohd Rafi who wants these voices?
Are you happy with the state of film music in this country?
Although I had raga-based songs in Parineeta and Paheli, the songs didn't get any recognition. I don't have a problem with Himesh getting all the awards, but it's an insult to nominate Paheli and Aashiq Banaya Aapne in the same genre for popular awards. Our songs were from two different genres in Aashiq'. and Paheli. The genres have to be separated or our singers will stop doing riyaaz. They'll wonder why they need to work on their voices when they can get awards for relatively simple songs.
Mahesh Bhatt started the trend of introducing Pakistani music to Bollywood.
Everyone has the right to do their own thing. But if this trend continues, we as artistes need to tighten our seat belts. The music from Pakistan has a different flavour and colour to it.
What are your future plans for playback singing?
I'm doing too many things at the same time. I love the feeling of being in demand. I'm not passionate about anything except music. I'm blessed to have so much work. But I miss the glory attached to playback singing. I wish we had one good music company that could respect a good artiste.
How're your relations with your old company T Series?
We continue to maintain a cordial relation. But it isn't the same as before when Gulshan Kumarji was around. If I had contributed the same to any other music company there would have been lot more appreciation. I'm looking at a credible company for my classical album. I'm doing this for my own happiness.
Are you happy?
I've learnt to look for happiness within myself. People around me have changed. I've converted them into positive people. I don't allow anyone negative in my space. I'm surrounded by people who have love in their eyes.
Would you call yourself happily married?
Well, I am married and one can be happily married. Marriage is a very small part of life. And I'm saying this in the presence of my wife. There's a lot more to life.
'I want my name to be a trademark. If it is a Sonu Nigam song then it should be good lyrically, musically and vocally' ' Sonu Niigaam
The leading singer of India has just come to your homes. IndiaFM caught up with none other than Sonu Nigam in an exclusive interview where he spoke about his latest song, his life and his future plans.
You have just recorded the song 'Yeh Rashtra Prem Ki Bhavna' tell us something about that.
This is the first song ever to release in India without the help of a company. It is basically our conviction towards this song that we wanted to convey it to our listeners. This song is meant for today's generation because I have lots of faith in them. I believe we underestimate them when we say that this is the kind of music we like and this is the thought process they carry. I believe if we don't provide them with the right kind of music and other stuff then they don't know how to behave correctly. This song was supposed to have released around Independence Day but suddenly the bomb blasts in Mumbai happened. So one side of our mind said that we should release it earlier to get lots of attention but then we thought that we shouldn't cash in on someone else's suffering. I believed that this song should only release on radio and be available for downloads. So when the radio guys heard it we got a standing ovation. The composer is Deepak Pandit and I wrote the lyrics for it. Then we made the video because television channels were keen on airing it. There was a lot of positive response from everywhere.
This song was supposed to have released around Independence Day but suddenly the bomb blasts in Mumbai happened. So one side of our mind said that we should release it earlier to get lots of attention but then we thought that we shouldn't cash in on someone else's suffering.
How come you didn't opt for a company for this song?
Companies are essential. We have to have good companies in our country. But sometimes there is some niche work that you want to give to the public that you don't want others to mess up. This is the kind of work that I want to give to the people. My idea is not to depend on how much money I will recover because at this stage of my career I can afford to lose money. I will lose money obviously because I don't expect to be paid for something that does not release on CDs or cassettes. A company even if they like the song, they would want a remix after that. This is a pure song and I wanted the video to be clear and the message in the face. So that is why we decided not to depend on any company. I have that much goodwill that people know when I am talking I will talk sense.
So basically your message is an awakening for the youth?
The lines go as 'yeh rashtra prem ki bhavna bas matr ek hai kaamna. Hirday ki seep mein aans ki moti. Tam, Gan, Man, Jan mein ho jyoti. Arz hai yehi- Bharat ki rakth mein prabavihith ho'. We have almost reached 60 years of independence and there is a saying which goes like 'Right or wrong my country is the best'. I don't believe in that. I believe that if our country is wrong then we need to do something about it and definitely we are wrong. We need to tell the people that patriotism is not just about hailing your country but about correcting your country. It's about changing this mind-set. That is the message of this song.
So how did the standing ovation feel like?
This really gives me a high. This is not your regular film song. It's like my baby and when your baby gets appreciated even by people who don't appreciate easily will definitely feel great. I want my name to be a trademark. If it is a Sonu Nigam song then it should be good lyrically, musically and vocally.
I want my name to be a trademark. If it is a Sonu Nigam song then it should be good lyrically, musically and vocally.
Do you think a good voice is a god gifted talent or comes out of hard work?
Both! There are people who are blessed with natural voices. I cultivated mine because I sounded like too many people. I modulate my voice and that is my effort. If I had just one voice then I would be confined to just one genre of singing. I don't see myself doing that. I want to pursue different genres of music. I know of singers who are blessed with great voices but are confined.
If I had just one voice then I would be confined to just one genre of singing.
Do you believe in daily riyaz?
I practice daily riyaz. As I grow older I get madder.
You recently said in an interview that you want to take it easy now. But you also collapsed while shooting for this song. Is this true?
One is partially true while the other one is exaggeration. There was news that I am retiring from music. It is true that I want to cut down on my music but retiring from music is an overstatement. Music is always going to be a part of my life. It is my prayer. It is an ecstasy altogether. When I hear other people singing classical music I realize there is so much more to incorporate in my music. So I'm not quitting music but I'm quitting wholesale singing. I have got logical reasons for that.
I'm not quitting music but I'm quitting wholesale singing.
If you count I have had about 10 -12 hits songs last year. 2 of Fanaa, 2 of KANK, Dil Vich Lagi Ya Ve, Krrish, Parineeta and Paheli. But I sang over 300 songs last year. Why? It's just a waste of time. I don't want to break records. I'd rather read all the books loaded in my house. I don't want to die without reading them. I want to enjoy nature; I want to enjoy other things in life. I want to pursue yoga, want to work-out, learn Taekwondo. I don't want to grow old and feel that I'm helpless. As for the collapsing, that did happen. I was taken to the hospital. I was vomiting and suffered from food poisoning.
I'd rather read all the books loaded in my house. I don't want to die without reading them.
You are into spirituality in a big way. How has that changed your life?
I'm not that spiritual. People at an early stage in my career claimed that I was spiritual. All of us are spiritual in some sense. I want to be at a stage in life where nothing should affect me. I don't want to be filled with sorrows nor too much happiness. I have trained myself to be that way. But overall I don't think I'm worthy of being called spiritual.
From your current contemporaries, who do you think is doing really great work?
Kunal Ganjawala, KK and Shaan sing very well. Other than Kunal, the rest are older than me. Sunidhi Chauhan, Shreya Ghoshal, Shweta Pandit, Mahalaxmi, Madhushree, etc. They are all very good. Also Kailash Kher as well.
Himesh Reshamimiya is pretty big on the music scene as well.
Himesh is a great composer. I don't rate him as a good singer and I don't think he does so either. If he rates himself as a great singer then he is lying to himself. But as a composer he is great and he deserves the success that he is getting today.
I don't rate Himesh as a good singer and I don't think he does so either. If he rates himself as a great singer then he is lying to himself.
Do you also compose music?
Yes, my album Chanda Ki Doli was my composition.
If you were to choose 3 favorite tracks from your vast repertoire, which would that be?
Satrangi Re, Tumse Milke from Main Hoon Na and Mera Rang de Basanti Chola.
What about your stint in acting?
There are a lot of things involved while doing a movie. The director, the actor, the producer and his marketing strategy. When I choose a movie I can't be governed by my heart. I have learned to use my instincts. I cannot give 100 days of my life in acting, dubbing, promoting and finally get bad reviews because the outcome is not nice.
I know of singers who are blessed with great voices but are confined.
What next?
There is an album coming up. This is really different as nothing like it has been done in India. 60% is ready. I just have to sing it and the lyrics also have to be done. It will most probably be released in October.
Tell us something about your American tour?
I'm going on a tour after 5 ' years. Unlike other people who go every year or twice a year, I decided to wait and get a proper promoter. Finally these really great guys came my way and it's happening on a large scale. Almost like the Hollywood way
You compose music for your albums. Then why not compose for films?
'It can be quite a headache to compose music for films. Also in the last 8-9 years I have stopped approaching people for work. I'd rather people come to me with proposals. I'd rather compose music for myself just for the job satisfaction rather than make it another measure of success. But yes, I am open to composing for movies, but that's only if and when the project looks good.'
Actors go through a discipline regime to keep fit and look good. What do singers have to do to keep their voices 'fit'?
'Singers, these days, too, have to hit the gym and take care of their appearance. Gone are the days when singers could get away with fat bellies and triple chins. Playback singing has no longer remained a behind-the-scenes profession. With stage shows and all that, one has to at least be presentable. Also, working out helps strengthen the lungs. And like they say, singing is chathi ka khel (game of the lungs). A singer has to work on stamina, energy and body language besides of course his or her daily riyaaz .'
What's the craziest fan-incident you have experienced?
'There have been two extreme cases: There is this girl who insists that she is married to me, and is now convinced that I am ditching her and on my way to marry somebody else. It's scary; A few years ago, this educated boy came up to me and wanted to work at my house, even if it meant cleaning the dishes or ironing the clothes. I told him to go study and come back. The problem is that he came back. But I asked him to go again.'
You've become a youth icon among singing aspirants.
I had not noticed this development until two to three years ago when Shaan told me that many of the songs that the contestants sang on Sa Re Ga Ma Pa were mine. Now, when I'm a judge on Indian Idol I do realise that the contestants tend sing my difficult songs like 'Tera jadoo chal gaya', 'Zindagi maut na ban jaye' and 'Satrangi re'. I've now begun to realise that good work always reaches people's hearts. So I just do my work. As a singer I'm far from perfect and maybe I'll never get there, but there is no harm in trying. I am 32 and hope to do a lot as a human and a singer in the years to come.
Are you being challenged enough as a singer?
I don't think the film industry is able to provide sufficient opportunities for me, so I have to create my own challenges. This year I have some great songs in Karan Johar's Kabhi Alvidaa Na Kehna, Shirish Kunder's Jaan-e-Man, Kunal Kohli's Fanaah, Nikhil Advani's Salaam-e-Ishq, Rakesh Roshan's Krisshh, J.P. Dutta's Umrao Jaan and Farhan Akhtar's Don. But the challenge I experience when I sing a classical song where I've to work on a particular harkat or an alaap is missing. Films don't provide me songs like that. All tracks today are deejay-designed and private albums are dead. The furthest I could go with a non-film pop album was Chanda Ki Doli where I showed some of my classical creativity . I've therefore decided to come out with a semi-classical album. I might as well do something I believe in and something I'd be proud of forty years from now.
Have you sung 'Khai ke paan Baneraswala' in the Don remake?
I wish I had. As a child I used to dance to that song on stage. By the time I asked Shankar-Ehsan-Loy whether I could do it, they had already asked Udit Narayan to sing it. With his North Indian background he's the right person to do it.
What do you feel about Himesh Reshammiya's sudden success as a singer?
It's easy to criticise someone's singing for being nasal. Who sets the rules for how a song should be sung? Times are changing and different voice types are entering the industry and being accepted. With Himesh, at least a distinctive voice from within the country has found acceptance. Otherwise we've lately had strange voices from outside India, no matter how besura (out of tune), becoming successful.
What did you think of all the singers who have come from Pakistan?
A few are good. But most of them are strictly okay. In a country that has been blessed with a Lata Mangeshkar and Mohd Rafi who wants these voices?
Are you happy with the state of film music in this country?
Although I had raga-based songs in Parineeta and Paheli, the songs didn't get any recognition. I don't have a problem with Himesh getting all the awards, but it's an insult to nominate Paheli and Aashiq Banaya Aapne in the same genre for popular awards. Our songs were from two different genres in Aashiq'. and Paheli. The genres have to be separated or our singers will stop doing riyaaz. They'll wonder why they need to work on their voices when they can get awards for relatively simple songs.
Mahesh Bhatt started the trend of introducing Pakistani music to Bollywood.
Everyone has the right to do their own thing. But if this trend continues, we as artistes need to tighten our seat belts. The music from Pakistan has a different flavour and colour to it.
What are your future plans for playback singing?
I'm doing too many things at the same time. I love the feeling of being in demand. I'm not passionate about anything except music. I'm blessed to have so much work. But I miss the glory attached to playback singing. I wish we had one good music company that could respect a good artiste.
How're your relations with your old company T Series?
We continue to maintain a cordial relation. But it isn't the same as before when Gulshan Kumarji was around. If I had contributed the same to any other music company there would have been lot more appreciation. I'm looking at a credible company for my classical album. I'm doing this for my own happiness.
Are you happy?
I've learnt to look for happiness within myself. People around me have changed. I've converted them into positive people. I don't allow anyone negative in my space. I'm surrounded by people who have love in their eyes.
Would you call yourself happily married?
Well, I am married and one can be happily married. Marriage is a very small part of life. And I'm saying this in the presence of my wife. There's a lot more to life.
'I want my name to be a trademark. If it is a Sonu Nigam song then it should be good lyrically, musically and vocally' ' Sonu Niigaam
The leading singer of India has just come to your homes. IndiaFM caught up with none other than Sonu Nigam in an exclusive interview where he spoke about his latest song, his life and his future plans.
You have just recorded the song 'Yeh Rashtra Prem Ki Bhavna' tell us something about that.
This is the first song ever to release in India without the help of a company. It is basically our conviction towards this song that we wanted to convey it to our listeners. This song is meant for today's generation because I have lots of faith in them. I believe we underestimate them when we say that this is the kind of music we like and this is the thought process they carry. I believe if we don't provide them with the right kind of music and other stuff then they don't know how to behave correctly. This song was supposed to have released around Independence Day but suddenly the bomb blasts in Mumbai happened. So one side of our mind said that we should release it earlier to get lots of attention but then we thought that we shouldn't cash in on someone else's suffering. I believed that this song should only release on radio and be available for downloads. So when the radio guys heard it we got a standing ovation. The composer is Deepak Pandit and I wrote the lyrics for it. Then we made the video because television channels were keen on airing it. There was a lot of positive response from everywhere.
This song was supposed to have released around Independence Day but suddenly the bomb blasts in Mumbai happened. So one side of our mind said that we should release it earlier to get lots of attention but then we thought that we shouldn't cash in on someone else's suffering.
How come you didn't opt for a company for this song?
Companies are essential. We have to have good companies in our country. But sometimes there is some niche work that you want to give to the public that you don't want others to mess up. This is the kind of work that I want to give to the people. My idea is not to depend on how much money I will recover because at this stage of my career I can afford to lose money. I will lose money obviously because I don't expect to be paid for something that does not release on CDs or cassettes. A company even if they like the song, they would want a remix after that. This is a pure song and I wanted the video to be clear and the message in the face. So that is why we decided not to depend on any company. I have that much goodwill that people know when I am talking I will talk sense.
So basically your message is an awakening for the youth?
The lines go as 'yeh rashtra prem ki bhavna bas matr ek hai kaamna. Hirday ki seep mein aans ki moti. Tam, Gan, Man, Jan mein ho jyoti. Arz hai yehi- Bharat ki rakth mein prabavihith ho'. We have almost reached 60 years of independence and there is a saying which goes like 'Right or wrong my country is the best'. I don't believe in that. I believe that if our country is wrong then we need to do something about it and definitely we are wrong. We need to tell the people that patriotism is not just about hailing your country but about correcting your country. It's about changing this mind-set. That is the message of this song.
So how did the standing ovation feel like?
This really gives me a high. This is not your regular film song. It's like my baby and when your baby gets appreciated even by people who don't appreciate easily will definitely feel great. I want my name to be a trademark. If it is a Sonu Nigam song then it should be good lyrically, musically and vocally.
I want my name to be a trademark. If it is a Sonu Nigam song then it should be good lyrically, musically and vocally.
Do you think a good voice is a god gifted talent or comes out of hard work?
Both! There are people who are blessed with natural voices. I cultivated mine because I sounded like too many people. I modulate my voice and that is my effort. If I had just one voice then I would be confined to just one genre of singing. I don't see myself doing that. I want to pursue different genres of music. I know of singers who are blessed with great voices but are confined.
If I had just one voice then I would be confined to just one genre of singing.
Do you believe in daily riyaz?
I practice daily riyaz. As I grow older I get madder.
You recently said in an interview that you want to take it easy now. But you also collapsed while shooting for this song. Is this true?
One is partially true while the other one is exaggeration. There was news that I am retiring from music. It is true that I want to cut down on my music but retiring from music is an overstatement. Music is always going to be a part of my life. It is my prayer. It is an ecstasy altogether. When I hear other people singing classical music I realize there is so much more to incorporate in my music. So I'm not quitting music but I'm quitting wholesale singing. I have got logical reasons for that.
I'm not quitting music but I'm quitting wholesale singing.
If you count I have had about 10 -12 hits songs last year. 2 of Fanaa, 2 of KANK, Dil Vich Lagi Ya Ve, Krrish, Parineeta and Paheli. But I sang over 300 songs last year. Why? It's just a waste of time. I don't want to break records. I'd rather read all the books loaded in my house. I don't want to die without reading them. I want to enjoy nature; I want to enjoy other things in life. I want to pursue yoga, want to work-out, learn Taekwondo. I don't want to grow old and feel that I'm helpless. As for the collapsing, that did happen. I was taken to the hospital. I was vomiting and suffered from food poisoning.
I'd rather read all the books loaded in my house. I don't want to die without reading them.
You are into spirituality in a big way. How has that changed your life?
I'm not that spiritual. People at an early stage in my career claimed that I was spiritual. All of us are spiritual in some sense. I want to be at a stage in life where nothing should affect me. I don't want to be filled with sorrows nor too much happiness. I have trained myself to be that way. But overall I don't think I'm worthy of being called spiritual.
From your current contemporaries, who do you think is doing really great work?
Kunal Ganjawala, KK and Shaan sing very well. Other than Kunal, the rest are older than me. Sunidhi Chauhan, Shreya Ghoshal, Shweta Pandit, Mahalaxmi, Madhushree, etc. They are all very good. Also Kailash Kher as well.
Himesh Reshamimiya is pretty big on the music scene as well.
Himesh is a great composer. I don't rate him as a good singer and I don't think he does so either. If he rates himself as a great singer then he is lying to himself. But as a composer he is great and he deserves the success that he is getting today.
I don't rate Himesh as a good singer and I don't think he does so either. If he rates himself as a great singer then he is lying to himself.
Do you also compose music?
Yes, my album Chanda Ki Doli was my composition.
If you were to choose 3 favorite tracks from your vast repertoire, which would that be?
Satrangi Re, Tumse Milke from Main Hoon Na and Mera Rang de Basanti Chola.
What about your stint in acting?
There are a lot of things involved while doing a movie. The director, the actor, the producer and his marketing strategy. When I choose a movie I can't be governed by my heart. I have learned to use my instincts. I cannot give 100 days of my life in acting, dubbing, promoting and finally get bad reviews because the outcome is not nice.
I know of singers who are blessed with great voices but are confined.
What next?
There is an album coming up. This is really different as nothing like it has been done in India. 60% is ready. I just have to sing it and the lyrics also have to be done. It will most probably be released in October.
Tell us something about your American tour?
I'm going on a tour after 5 ' years. Unlike other people who go every year or twice a year, I decided to wait and get a proper promoter. Finally these really great guys came my way and it's happening on a large scale. Almost like the Hollywood way
You compose music for your albums. Then why not compose for films?
'It can be quite a headache to compose music for films. Also in the last 8-9 years I have stopped approaching people for work. I'd rather people come to me with proposals. I'd rather compose music for myself just for the job satisfaction rather than make it another measure of success. But yes, I am open to composing for movies, but that's only if and when the project looks good.'
Actors go through a discipline regime to keep fit and look good. What do singers have to do to keep their voices 'fit'?
'Singers, these days, too, have to hit the gym and take care of their appearance. Gone are the days when singers could get away with fat bellies and triple chins. Playback singing has no longer remained a behind-the-scenes profession. With stage shows and all that, one has to at least be presentable. Also, working out helps strengthen the lungs. And like they say, singing is chathi ka khel (game of the lungs). A singer has to work on stamina, energy and body language besides of course his or her daily riyaaz .'
What's the craziest fan-incident you have experienced?
'There have been two extreme cases: There is this girl who insists that she is married to me, and is now convinced that I am ditching her and on my way to marry somebody else. It's scary; A few years ago, this educated boy came up to me and wanted to work at my house, even if it meant cleaning the dishes or ironing the clothes. I told him to go study and come back. The problem is that he came back. But I asked him to go again.'
SONU NIIGAAM THE PERFORMER
He is undoubtedly the best singer performer the country has seen.When most playback singers take the easy way out and use karaoke to perform..he maks it a point to give his listeners raw muzic..he takes a full band with him wherever he goes and entertains the listeners to the max..His endearing nature clicks perfectly with the audience and his music will leave anyone thirsty for more..He is in his own world when he is on stage and those 3 hours will be the best 3 hours for any muzic lover..Because what follows is better experienced tha explained...
Review on one of Sonu's soul-stirring shows
ON A GRAND MUSICAL JOURNEY Singing sensation Sonu Nigam performing at the concert. The crowd enjoying every moment of the show (below)
He kept the audience captivated with his rocking performance as he breathed new life into songs that you have heard a million times before. The venue was packed as thousands of fans gathered at the Andhra University Engineering College grounds to listen to the high-energy singer. Sonu Nigam, who was in the city for the first time for a concert organised by Idea Cellular Ltd., held the audience spell-bound with his magical voice giving new twists and turns to familiar songs.
The tickets got sold out a day before the event and the seats got filled an hour before the show. At 7.30 p.m., a dashing Sonu came on stage with his soul-stirring 'Kal Ho Na Ho...' as his brilliant band added the grand musical effect giving the melody, a slow emotional touch.
And there was the singing sensation at his best. "Thank you everyone for the wonderful welcome," he greeted the crowd as they screamed and waved at him and then added, "this evening will be the most memorable one for you all!"
It started off with the romantic numbers like 'Suraj Hua Madham...'adding a nostalgic effect to the mood of the evening. Then came the first gear shift of the evening. 'Rafta rafta...' he went and the crowd sprang to its feet. They hummed with the rocking Rehman track of 'Saathiya...' and to the melodious 'Chanda Ki Doli Mein...' that followed.
As he sang, Sonu went back to the memories of his struggling days. "After my first hit song 'Achha Sila Diya...', I used to get to sing only sad songs in films with tragic scenes. People thought that I was a depressed old man," he chuckled.
Indeed, for this talented singer, it was a tough and patient climb to the top of the charts. With stars in his eyes, he moved from Delhi to the city of dreams, Bombay, where he was to be hailed as the voice of the immortal Rafi Saheb. "I worship Mohd. Rafi. But with the changing times, I had to bring some improvisation in my voice," he said.
As he moved on with the musical evening, he involved the audience into dialogues, taking them with him in every moment of the trip.
Sometimes he just paused in between the song, prompting the audience to complete the song, always making sure that the audience remained captivated with his tasteful improvisations.
Keeping the crowd thoroughly entertained for two hours, he took them to an extraordinary musical journey sandwiching the modern fast numbers with an old melody or by announcing that he was going to sing a bhajan and breaking into the rocking 'Ghum Shuda...'.
Girls turned into cheerleaders as he sang 'Just chill...'. And in between, he entertained everyone with his jokes and amusing narration of incidents of his life. Giving him company was Indian Idol finalist Meenal who belted out a few fast numbers providing some break to Sonu.
The showman singer won many a heart as he ended the memorable musical evening with 'Kal Ho Na Ho...' leaving the audience asking for more
Social work
Main Hoon Na: Sonu Nigam to hearing impaired students
Sonu Nigam might have crooned his way up through commercial singing, but on Thursday afternoon at the Lion's School for the Hearing Impaired, Nigam matched duets for a cause - and giving him competition were the 30 odd speech and hearing impaired students. Not only did he entertain the students, but he also decided to present them a unique New Year gift - a set of 10 sophisticated hearing aids. An NRI from London also made a donation of 20 pieces of hearing machines.
'The donation will help our institute, since most of the students hail from poor homes. We had in fact given digital hearing equipment to a girl three months ago and it worked for her. She made huge progress. These new donations will be utilised in the best possible way,' remarked a teacher of the school.
Meanwhile, Nigam has been stationed at Rajkot for a series of stage shows that he is doing for a cellular brand and in fact came on the venue directly from the airport. He was invited by friend and actor Kunika. 'I thought it might be for cancer patients or some other cause, because Kunika is always involved in social work. It is strange that my audience are these children, because they can't hear properly. Yet in a way they are my audience,' he says. The singer, who also handed over some other gifts to the kids, kept them entertained throughout. He sang songs from 'Kaho Na Pyar Hai' and 'Main Hoon Na' for the children. Needless to say, they seemed impressed. Evidently, he turned out to be as popular with the kids, as with the music connoisseurs.
SPIRITUAL INCLINATION
He is a very spiritually inclined person and his trust in God and faith in himself has made him what he is today.
His trip to the Himalayas
The fast-paced life of Bollywood has a way of taking its toll on people. The most recent is playback singer Sonu Niigam who went to Nandadevi Parvat, in the Himalayas, in search of peace and tranquility.
"I have been planning to do this for years, and I finally got around to doing it," says Sonu. He was accompanied by two friends from Delhi and Kolkata. "I hardly knew them. So basically, I was isolated; something I wanted. The time there was mine, and I spent it engaging in introspection. I lived in places that did not have basic amenities, like toilet facilities and water. I lived on a lean diet of fruit, pulses and rice, which we carried from Mumbai."
Getting to their destination, a place 60,000 feet above sea level, was a test of nerves for Sonu. "I kept telling myself that it could not be more strenuous that performing on stage for hours on end,' he says. 'But I was wrong. The first hour of climbing was horrible. I was really nervous and my stamina was running out. I kept questioning my capacity to continue. But I fought the temptation to give up and went on till I reached the top. I was mesmerised and overcome with emotion once at the top. I experienced immense inner peace. I guess this is where word fails and it's all about what you feel," the singer says.
Hobbies
His passion is and will always be music..He believes muzic is a very deep language which is close to the language of nature..Music is the only language that speaks in the fourth dimension..He enjoys exploring himself..everything is expertise for him..very inquistive by nature..But he is also a voracious reader..He collects books from all over the world...from wherever he travels...and finds time to read them..He has keen interest in Numerology,Astrology,Astronomy,Vedas,Upanishads,Psycholo gy, Indian History and everything which nurtures the culture of our country..He currently has found interest in Fenshui and Quantum Theory..He is also trained in Taekwando..which definitely helps him to be more agile..Being a family man,he loves to spend time with his family..He is not into partying...He enjoys watching television...He has a wish to do some farming and horticulture in future..Basically his biggest strength is that he does whatever he does to his best with passion and zeal...The results..we all know..
An informed Indian
Singer Sonu Nigam is proud of his country. He recollects, 'I remember when I was very young, the entire family used to gather in one place and we used to sing a number of patriotic songs and would be so overwhelmed by it all that tears rolled down our cheeks. This country has borne an immense deal and survived it all ' right from the Moguls to the British. But that's not the end of the story. We may have got our independence, but India is still not what it should have been. We all, as citizens of the country, must work towards making it a better place to live in.' Sonu is also an ace at history. He can trace all the conquests and invasions and knows a lot about his Motherland. 'It's a shame if people are not aware of the history of their own country. It's completely their loss and they should not take pride in it at all.' Time to sit up and open your history books, people!
Hobbies
His passion is and will always be music..He believes muzic is a very deep language which is close to the language of nature..Music is the only language that speaks in the fourth dimension..He enjoys exploring himself..everything is expertise for him..very inquistive by nature..But he is also a voracious reader..He collects books from all over the world...from wherever he travels...and finds time to read them..He has keen interest in Numerology,Astrology,Astronomy,Vedas,Upanishads,Psycholo gy, Indian History and everything which nurtures the culture of our country..He currently has found interest in Fenshui and Quantum Theory..He is also trained in Taekwando..which definitely helps him to be more agile..Being a family man,he loves to spend time with his family..He is not into partying...He enjoys watching television...He has a wish to do some farming and horticulture in future..Basically his biggest strength is that he does whatever he does to his best with passion and zeal...The results..we all know..
An informed Indian
Singer Sonu Nigam is proud of his country. He recollects, 'I remember when I was very young, the entire family used to gather in one place and we used to sing a number of patriotic songs and would be so overwhelmed by it all that tears rolled down our cheeks. This country has borne an immense deal and survived it all ' right from the Moguls to the British. But that's not the end of the story. We may have got our independence, but India is still not what it should have been. We all, as citizens of the country, must work towards making it a better place to live in.' Sonu is also an ace at history. He can trace all the conquests and invasions and knows a lot about his Motherland. 'It's a shame if people are not aware of the history of their own country. It's completely their loss and they should not take pride in it at all.' Time to sit up and open your history books, people!
His near family consists of his dad Mr.Agam Kumar Nigam and mom Mrs.Shobha Nigam...Sisters Meenal Nigam and Neekita NIgam..Meenal Di is married to Ravi Bhaiyya..they have a son whom hez very fond of..Lama..his wife Madurima Nigam..His manager and a brother 2 him Ben Thomas..
And NEWS...SONU BHAIYYA AND MADHU BHABHI HAVE BEEN BLESSED WITH A LIL BABY BOY....NEVAAN NIIGAAM...Nevaan is an Irish word which means holy...Like bhaiyya has been a dutiful son,a loving brother,a very caring and considerate husband..I am sure he'll make a wonderful dad too...God bless the lil angel...
Anyone who wants to join..anyone who has true respect and love for this maestro.. can contact me.....thts SHYAMA.....
Last Ink Drop
I have been a huuuuge follower of his muzic for over 13 years now..No song he sings escapes me..He is my Guru,my Idol,role model,my brother,my musical father...my God..I call him bhaiyya...and he is the biggest inspiration of my life..I love him more than my life...I pray to God that he is always happy..safe and sound..always smiling...God bless him and his wonderful family always..
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