Sa Re Ga Ma Pa...makeover

Ismail Durbar

My Job: I am very thrilled to be a part of this unique concept. I think it's great to have raw talent under you and then mould them into professional singers.

What I look for: I don't want someone who will just sing a song and go home. The singer must realise the emotions and depth that go into a song. It is difficult to get legends like Lataji and Kishoreda today, but if someone is sincere, honest and ready to give his or her all, then I will ensure that justice is done to their talent.

Himesh Reshammiya

My Job: To make sure my team is better than the others. Four teams headed by music directors competing against each other is a really interesting concept.

What I look for: I want a fresh voice, that's my first requirement. A lot of newcomers want to sing but don't realise the hard work involved.

The singer has to be able to grasp the music director's vision quickly, as there isn't much time for explanation. The voice should be able to match the face of today's urban actors — if the voice has these qualities, training it won't be difficult.

Adesh Shrivastav

My job: My contribution to the show is to make sure the right talent is picked and given proper training. I will also be making sure that the guys working under me are far superior to those working with the other three composers on the show.

What I look for: I don't want another Sonu Nigam or Kumar Sanu. I want someone who doesn't sound like them. A lot of singers try to ape Sonu, but why train someone who doesn't have his or her own style? I am looking for a voice that has a classical background but can stand up to commercial challenges. I am highly excited about this concept.

(Music directors Jatin-Lalit are currently out of India and could not be contacted.)