Rehman's new label to tap musical talent

Music director A R Rehman isn't revealing much about his new label, except that it will be out by the end of the year and that "jazz and classical music will feature prominently." But why 'KM'? "It's something auspicious in Islam, a symbol of good luck," says the new look music director whose curly mop is neatly trimmed and combed. "I am just back from a pilgrimage," he explains.

Rehman is equally discreet about an upcoming international collaboration where "he is teaming up with a guitarist of international repute." After wowing the international audience with 'Bombay Dreams', 'The Lord of the Rings' and the Chinese venture 'Warriors of Heaven and Earth', he is lending music to the sequel of Shekhar Kapur's 'Elizabeth' and a musical 'London Dreams'. Back home Mani Ratnam's 'Guru', Shyam Benegal's 'Chamki Chameli' and the periodical 'Akbar Jodha' are some of the other projects that are keeping him busy.

Rehman, who was recently here for a music tune launch, says international productions approach him for his music. "I think it's for my melody which knows no boundaries." He does admit though that the audience abroad is still niche.

However, Rehman's just lost a prize opportunity to work with Baz Luhrmann of 'Moulin Rouge' fame. "He was intimidated by my roster," says the much-in-demand Rehman. Rehman says nature is his muse and this comes through in the new signature tune that he's created for Worldspace, who have also signed him on as their brand ambassador."I started out with jingles and I am now composing music for advertisments. Life has come a full circle," Rehman says philosophically.

Recently, Rehman has come with his own rendition of the nation anthem 'Jana Gana Mana..". This comes after the popular 'Vande Maatram'. He doesn't attribute a patriotic motive to his versions though.

"It gave me chance to work with Bharat Bala (who produced the song), my friend from school," Rehman says simply.

Panned by critics for being repetitive till he silenced them with the hugely popular music of 'Rang De Basanti', one is tempted to ask if signature style is the bane for a music director ? "I think music should rejuvenate. People listen to a music director so many times that if the music gets repetitive, people get sick of it." The director has a reputation for being difficult to work with. He defends himself saying that if it were the case, he wouldn't be offered so many projects.