Hariharan: Don't get playback offers anymore

Hariharan will perform live tonight in the city

Hariharan will perform live tonight in the city

Hariharan will raise a toast to his 40-year career as singer with a live performance at the Shanmukhananda Auditorium tonight. Discussing his journey so far, he tells us, "I am happy I could successfully sing all styles that I wanted to. I thank music lovers for accepting me in all genres, and I want to experiment further."

For the last few years, however, his voice has not been heard as part of Bollywood soundtracks. Reason? "Because I don't get playback offers [anymore]. The voice USP for film numbers has changed," says the veteran singer. Talking about the current state of film music, he adds, "Any music that brings smile and happiness to people is good. Bollywood music is changing rapidly, as the soundscape of international music is changing. I find it entertaining."

While independent music has, debatably, found its footing yet again, Hariharan churned out albums and singles even when the indie music scene had taken a hit. "I have been releasing albums regularly because coming up with new songs is a must for a singer. New repertoire and energy are what make you tick. The low phase of independent music didn't affect me. Even now, I feel things need to get better [for indie artistes]. India has so many styles of music that need to be showcased."

Ask him about his upcoming independent works, and he reveals he is doing a fusion music project with son, Akshay, who is a composer, arranger and producer. "The fusion is between classical music and EDM; a heady mix of both styles. I will also release a live recording of my renditions of Mehdi Hassan saab's ghazals soon," he says.