Himesh Reshammiya: Salman bhai is instrumental in making me what I am today

Salman Khan and Himesh Reshammiya

Salman Khan and Himesh Reshammiya

Himesh Reshammiya is returning to the independent music scene after a decade with a new album, Aap Se Mausiquii. His last record, Aap Ka Surroor, was a hit. The singer-composer says, "Keeping a low profile is a conscious decision. I'm okay with being selective, even if it means doing only two films a year. I have a record of delivering hits and, therefore, I'm answerable to my fans."

'Aap Se Mausiquii' is a collection of 10 original songs plus 15 remixes by India's top DJs - Aqeel, Chetas, Akbar Sami and Kiran Kamath. "I didn't want to come up with an album just for the heck of it. I waited for the right time and tracks. I'm happy with the outcome."

Himesh, who has acted in over 11 Hindi films and signed three new projects, says composing music is his first love. "Himesh, the singer, became successful only because Himesh, the composer, gave him good compositions. I could do so many films as an actor since I became popular as a composer," he says, adding that he is grateful to Salman Khan for giving him his big break with 'Pyaar Kiya To Darna Kya' (1998).

"Salman bhai is instrumental in making me what I am today. He is extremely generous, a mentor to many in the industry. He understands music well. I'm glad he loved my album and tweeted about it." Does he dream of sharing screen space with Salman in a film? "He knows his job. He takes the decisions. Nobody questions them."