Last Updated: May 30, 2007 17:02 IST After recording one of the most important songs for Sivaji, the Rajnikanth-produced Tamil film, composer AR Rahman invited the director of the film Shankar to listen to it. Shankar, who has worked with Rahman on several films, could of course instantly recognise veteran singer SP Balasubrahmanyam (SPB) in the song Balleilakka.. "But who is the female singer?" he asked. "He thought I was joking when I told him it is Rehana," says Rahman with a chuckle. Rahana is Rahman's older sister. "She has performed with me in my concerts," he adds."She has sung part of the song Chaiyya, Chaiiya in the concerts but this time she was singing for a film, and that too a very big film, and we all knew the song would be one of the biggest hits on the album. And yet I did not want to take anything for granted. I think I took upon myself a challenge and see if my sister could sing well for a big budget film." "But it took me 17 years of my profession to give my own sister a break," he says, with a small sigh. "People don't understand how mysteriously things work out in the film indstury. Many young people who send me tapes with their voices are disappointed that they do not hear from me at all. It is not easy to convince me. I am most critical with my own voice. You know that Tera Bina song in Guru was not originally sung by me. It was only at the insistence of Mani sir (director Mani Ratnam) I recorded it in my own voice." Even with Rehana he was not sure even as she was practicing the song that he should retain her voice. "After three horus of singing, suddenly her voice sounded very different and beautiful," he reveals. "Only then did I decide to retain her voice." The Sivaji album has some of the finest singers, new and old. The list includes SPB, Hariharan, Udit Narayan, Madhushree -- and then there is Chinamyee whose song in the film Guru enhanced her popularity. Rahman himself sings one of the most singificant numbers in the film, Athiradee, nearly six mintues long.
"We will be performing at least two songs from Sivaji, apart from my recent Hindi and Tamil hits including Guru and Rang De Basanti [Images]" says Rahman who is performing in the US and Canada after 3 years. What was it like composing music for Sivaji? "It was a very special feeling," Rahman said. "The expectations were very high, since Rajni, Shankar and I were working together. And this being a very big budget film, there was little room for a flexible recording schedule. Though we recorded a different version of the same song, and ended up retaining both versions in the film, it was still a very tight schedule." "With some of the directors I have worked the schedule has always been tight, and I like it," Rahman says. "Even then, there are a few last minute decisions. For instance, the theme song of Guru (sung by Rahman and Chitra) was thought of just two weeks before the film's release. There was no such thing with Sivaji." In the past, for some reason the songs in a Rajnikanth film have taken time to become big hits, the composer says. "In some cases, it is only after a month of the album's release have the songs become hits," he adds. "But here from Day 1 there has been a tremendous demand for the music." In the case of Guru, he says, the song Tere Bina became an instant hit, followed by several other songs in the course of next two or three weeks. But with Sivaji, there were three instant hits a few hours of the CDs release. Apart from Balleilakka, there was the song Vaaji Vaaji, sung by Hariharan and Madhushree, and Rahman's own number. Also a big hit is Sahara. "I have said many times how Madhushree has been evolving as a singer," he continues. "The Vaaji Vaaji song is another example of her growing status. We had to work for several hours on her Tamil rendition, but in the final reckoning I am very happy with her work." Hariharan, along with SPB, has been associated with Rahman in many interesting films. Some of Hariharan's best work is found in Rahman's compositions in Bombay and Guru (Ye Hairathe). "He is very different from most singers I have known," Rahman says of Hariharan. "The more you push him, the more inspired he becomes. Most other singers are content singing a song and go away. But Hariharan likes to be challenged.'
"I don't like the idea of a director thinking, OK, we have Rahman and we expect him to come up with good music. Composing a good score is partnership with many people including the director, lyricist, and singer." The budget of a film or the remuneration he receives has no real bearing on the final product. "Around the time I was working on big budget films, I was also composing music for relatively smaller films such as Meenaxi made by MF Hussain." He had been told the film had no commercial prospects. "But I thought it was an interesting subject, and I was also excited that I was working with one of the greatest artsists India has produced." Many of the tunes in Sivaji were finalised when Rahman was touring Australia or composing the music for Golden Age, Shekar Kapur's sequel to Elizabeth, in London. "One of the interesting developments in this film's music is the way the two versions of the same song came about," Rahman continues. The song Sahara was recorded in the voices of Vijay Yesudas, son of the veteran singer and Gomathishree, daughter of Rahman's guru Dakhshinamurthi Swamigal. "Gomathi is not just a film singer but she has an interesting voice," says Rahman. "I have plans to compose a few songs for her for a non-film album I want to produce ." When director Shankar heard the song Sahara he liked it to some extent, but he wanted a faster moving version. That version, called Sahana, was sung by Udit Narayan and Chinmayee. "But then we still thought the Vijay and Gomathi version had its own beauty," he adds. "Shankar decided to keep it in the film but as a background song." One guess is that it will be used in the film, similar to Yeh Hairathe in Guru. The songs of Sivaji have become chartbusters in all the four southern states, particularly in Andhra Pradesh where the Telugu version of the sondtrack has become a must-have. According to industry insiders, over 500,000 CDs and cassettes were released and sold within a week. The Sivaji music is also huge in Malaysia and Singapore, which have a significant Tamil population.
"I just could not go to India and spend many days recording the music for Sivaji," he says. So he asked the producer (AVM Pictures) if the music could be recorded in Prague, Czech Republic (where he has recorded many songs including one or two numbers in Meenaxi), and in London. 'Not a big deal,' the AVM honchos told Rahman, adding that it was all right if the budget went up. They were going to be very happy to have a superior score. "You hear a good range of music," he says. He has used the Czech Philharmonic Orchestra and the choral singers in the country's capital. "I don't want to give many details but in my book, the score is as important as the songs in the film." |
Thursday, May 31, 2007
AR Rahman, on Sivaji and sisters
Many of the singers featured in the film including Hariharan, Madhushree, Rehana, Blaaze, Naresh Iyer and Vijay Yesudas will be coming to USA and Canada with Rahman for a concert next month. In New York the concert will be held at Nassau Coliseum on June 16. Chitra, Sadhana Sargam and Sukhvinder will also be joining the concert, expected to be the biggest desi musical event of the year 2007. 
There are stories in Indian publications that Rahman was paid Rs 3 crores for Sivaji. The composer is not commenting on the fee. But he says right from his early years, what mattered him most while composing was the situation, and how enthusasiatic a director is about music.
The film also has an elaborate background score and composing it and recording it was a severe challenge to Rahman for he was also working in London on the music of Golden Age at the same time.
Friday, May 25, 2007
Rahman's anthem for Taj Mahal
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Wednesday, May 09, 2007
The 35 lakhs Rahman song
Sakkara Katti will be the launch-pad for Kala Prabu and Shanthanu, sons of two established biggies in Kollywood. While the former, the director of the movie is the son of producer Kalaipuli S Dhanu, the latter happens to be actor Bhagyaraj's son.
Their maiden venture is not only a youthful subject but the entrire team is full of youngsters as well.
Sakkarakatti
A R Rahman has scored the music for Sakkara Katti, and three songs have already been recorded. One of the songs that was filmed recently cost the producer Rs. 35 lakhs. The producer is full of praises for the team and is in awe with the way they have been working. 'Rahman's tunes are just amazing. The picturization has come out very well. The song will be the talk of the town', says Kalaipuli S Dhanu.
Speaking on his son's venture the veteran producer said : 'I am proud of my son. The amount of hardwork, commitment and dedication that he shows is unbelievable.' One more to the list of proud fathers in Kollywood.
Sakkara Katti will be A.R.Rahman's next album after his big hit Sivaji. Expectations among his fans are feverishly high."
Courtesy: Behindwoods.com
Saturday, May 05, 2007
Rahman asphyxiated by hysteric fans!
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| The hunt will be quite a thorough process covering almost regions of Tamil Nadu, right from Chennai to Coimbatore and Tirunelveli touching Salem and Madurai too. A similar search will be on in Andhra. At the end of the regional search, the best teams will be required to set to tune a song written by Kavingar Vaali under the title Nambikkai (confidence). The team that impresses the most will walk away wit the big prize. The contest will be aired on Sun TV this June onwards. When the event is this big, the judges too have to be big enough to justify the event. It doesn’t get bigger than this! A.R.Rahman will be judging the teams and he will be accompanied by singer-actress Vasundhara Das. The official curtain raiser for this talent hunt was held on Wed evening (May 2nd) at the Park Hotel in Chennai in which Rahman participated. The news of Rahman’s presence somehow leaked and within no time there was a huge crowd outside the venue and when finally it was time for Rahman to leave it was pandemonium. Rahman was virtually engulfed by the wave of admiring fans and why not, after all this is Rahman’s first real public appearance after the Sivaji audio release. The crowd did not spare any effort in making their appreciation for the wizard’s music evident. But Rahman, caught in the middle of a huge crowd had a tough time. After what seemed to be a very long time Rahman finally managed to get away from the swarming fans. The organizers of any function in which Rahman has to participate please be prepared, the man has just delivered one of the biggest musical hits in the history of Tamil cinema. It would only count as common sense to expect huge crowds to gather to catch a glimpse of the man who has given them ‘Balleilakka’, ‘Athiradee’ and other chartbusters. As for A.R.Rahman, we have only one thing to say. Please don’t feel flustered, we just don’t know how else to express our appreciation. Your music is truly mesmerizing. | ||||
Courtesy: Behindwoods.com
"Rahman gives final touches to ‘Sivaji’
May 02, 2007
If a special award is instituted for the most awaited film of the year, super star’s Sivaji will undoubtedly walk away with all the laurels. This film can be clearly stated as the conglomeration of the ‘creamy layer’ of Tamil film industry. From the producer to the director to the artists to the musicians, the industry’s bigwigs are involved in this film.
Sivaji
This has naturally raised the barometric levels of audience’s expectations.
The film is in its final stages of wrapping up and music director A R Rahman is back in town after completing re-recording work for Sivaji in London. Having completed that, the genius is back in his home town and has immediately rushed to the studios to oversee how the audio-mixing had shaped up. The count down for the release of Sivaji has already begun and fans all over the world are eagerly waiting for the D day."
Courtesy: Behindwoods.com
A R Rahman To Helm Talent Hunt Show
Auditions will be held in six centres of Tamil Nadu, Trichy, Madurai, Coimbatore, Salem, Tirunelveli and Chennai besides Hyderabad, Vijayawada, Rajahmundhri and Tirupathi.
The criteria and challenge for final round selection would be that each band has to compose to the lyrics of lyricist Valee, who penned lyrics based on the theme 'Hope'.
Addressing media persons, Rahman, said, “Playing for a band is a great feeling. It is the sound produced by a collective effort. There are several talented bands across Tamil Nadu waiting for recognition. We aim at spotting the right talent and provide them an opportunity to cut an album for Saregama”.
The entire band hunt talent would be shot and telecast on popular Private television channel as a 13-week episode on Television. The winning band will be given an opportunity to cut an album in Tamil for Saregama.
Each episode will carry a two-minute byte wherein Rahman would talk to aspiring musicians on camera and give them valuable tips on the beauty of acoustic instruments, the logic "
Courtesy: IndiaGlitz.com
Sunday, April 22, 2007
A music album from Rahman
A R Rahman is all set to come out with a musical album in the company of musicians from USA and England.Rahman would be releasing the album through his KM Music for a popular international audio company.
Rahman is currently busy scoring the background music for much-awaited Sivaji starring Rajinikanth and directed by Shankar.
Also, he is composing music for Vijay's Azhagiya Thamizh Magan. He says that plans are on to come out with a Tamil music album very soon."
Courtesy: IndiaGlitz.com
"Will Isai have A R Rahman?
S J Suryah's recent releases Thirumagan and Vyabari have bombed at the box office without a trace and the director turned actor is dismayed over this. He is said to be at the cross roads in his career when he is contemplating whether to continue his acting department or
a.r.rahman
just stay behind the camera directing actors or do both. Having come to a conclusion that acting under somebody's direction does not yield the desired result, S J Suryah has deduced that it is best for him to act in his own direction. Hence he has approached Nick Arts Films who had given him the first break, to fund his next film Isai which will be directed by him and also will have him in the lead role. Going by the past history of the music department in S J Suryah's earlier films especially New and Ah Aah where A R Rahman had done a remarkable job in delivering lilting melodies, will Isai have music scored by the Isai Puyal? We'll have to wait and watch."
Courtesy: Behindwoods.com
Friday, April 20, 2007
"All that you want to know about Azhagiya Tamil Magan…
Azhagiya-tamil-magan
included a thiruvizha track which is a romantic number where Vijay employs numerous metaphors in praise of Shreya’s beauty. Songs are being chiseled with utmost care and the hero appears in diverse get ups in a couple of numbers.
Vijay says that ATM is a thriller where he is not playing a double role. He will be called Guru and Shreya goes by the name of Abinaya. The other heroine Namitha’s portion is yet to be filmed and it has been said that there is a surprise element for viewers in the film. There are enough sequences in ATM to tickle the funny bones of every one as the director is known for his penchant for comedy.
A R Rahman scores the music for ATM and he has broken the myth that he takes longer time to turn in his musical scores. Vijay is said to have been floored by ARR’s tracks.
| Maniraj is responsible for art department and he has erected a colony reminding one of Royapettah area in Binny mills which is generally used to film stunt scenes. So… Vijay lovers… get set to receive Azhagiya Tamil Magan soon. | |
Courtesy: Behindwoods.com
Rahman casts spell again with 'Sivaji'
The top five Telugu albums are:
1. 'Sivaji' - The songs 'Style' and 'Sahara' represent the versatility of the renowned composer.
2. 'Munna' - Hit composer Harris Jayaraj has delivered another peppy album to enchant Telugu music lovers yet again. 'Baaga baga' and 'Chamukuro' are particularly catchy.
3. 'Adavari Matalaku Ardhale Verule' - Composer Yuvan Shankar Raja teams up with actor Venkatesh for the first time and has done a good job. 'O baby' and 'Manasa manichamma' stand out.
4. 'Classmates' - Director Vijayabhaskar and composer Koti, who churned out hits like 'Malliswari', joined hands once again for the film. 'Gundechatuga' and 'Mounamenduku' are already hit numbers.
5. 'Bharani' - Yuvan Shankar Raja's Tamil hit has been received well in Telugu. 'Simhadri appanna' and 'Sayya sayya' are commendable.
Courtesy: Sivajimovie.blogspot.com
Thursday, April 12, 2007
Sivaji-Audio review
 
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| By Moviebuzz |
| A.R Rahman and Shankar have struck gold with the Sivaji audio album. They have the right mix of peppy and innovative numbers along with the right sounds and lyrics which are sure to please the mass audience of the superstar. Straight off the bat, it is the best ever album of one of the greatest combinations in Tamil Cinema- Rajnikanth and Rahman (R &R). They have worked together in Muthu, Padayappa and Baba, but here for the first time, Shankar, the showman of Tamil cinema joins the team. The trio has come out with music that is far superior, to the earlier works of the duo. Rahman, the maestro in private has always said that he combines best with Mani Ratnam and Shankar, because both of them are excellent visualisers . How the song comes on screen is as important for them as the composition. Shankar believes that songs are one of the most important ingredients of commercial cinema and he makes no bones about the fact that he loves to make picture perfect song and dance sequences. He has a story board for his song picturisations, including a colour scheme, detailing of costumes and the dancers including the choreography and the lighting to be used! Right from his Gentlemandays, he struck a rapport with Rahman and always goes out of the studios to a quiet place where they take days to compose the tunes. Later they sit with the lyric writer and make suitable changes to fit in with the mood of the film. In Sivaji's case it is obvious that Rajnikanth also played a crucial role and must have contributed some inputs, which have gone a long way to make the songs energetic. Well, Shankar’s contribution will be known once the song videos are shown in the channels, which will further popularise the numbers. The album kicks off with Balleilakka….. rendered by SPB, Rahanah Benny and chorus. The song (6.06) is said to be the introductory number of Rajnikanth, which makes it very important. Traditionally it is supposed to give goose-bump inducing effect to the superstar’s fans, who will throw flowers and at times money on the screen. It has to be a fast number and normally SPB sings it. Lyric writer Na. Muthukumar starts the song with the opening line-“ Sooriyano Chandirano. Yaar ivano sattena sollu” and goes on to hype the mass image of the superstar. The superstar as a champion of Tamils – “ Cauvery aarum kaikuthai arisiyum marandhupoguma”( Can we forget river Cauvery and the pounded rice). The hero can transform the state into another America- “ Annan vandhal Tamilnadu America agum. In the film Rajnikanth is coming back from US and is trying to change our system. In the song he also makes suggestions like Koovum cell phone-in nacharaippai anaithu, konjam silvandin ucharippai ketkom.. (switch off your nagging cell phones and listen to nature's sounds). Rajni has never been spotted with a mobile in public! On the whole, the fast number with drum beats in the background is racy and vibrant, thanks to SPB. Like Mukesh was the voice of Raj Kapoor or Mohammed Rafi was to Shammi Kapoor and Kishore Kumar was to Rajesh Khanna, SPB is to Rajnikanth- Who can say so fast Sadugudu, Sadugudu…? This number is better than R&R’s earlier Oruvan, Oruvan Muthalali… with all its drum beats, as an introductory song. This is followed by the racy track Style.. with a guitar base, sung by Rags, Tanvi, Suresh Peters and Blaaze. The song written by Pa. Vijay wants to establish the fact that Rajni is the original styleMannan of Tamil cinema. The song is western in feel, though it breaks into chaste Tamil to characterize the superstar. Some innovative lyrics, which the purist will yell, but children will make it their anthem- Oru koodai sunlight.. The third song in the album Sahana Saral Thoovuthu … is the pick of the lot, clearly vintage .A.R Rahman has it rendered in the catchy voice of Udit Narayanan and Chinmayi. It is a beautiful melody, written by Vairamuthu with the use of Rahman and Shankar’s favourite Indian instrument the Mridangam, with the maestro himself singing the dheem thana dheem thana bit. Purists may be critical of Udit’s Tamil pronunciation, but it adds to the final mix. Chinmayi is fabulous. (Why is she not given more chances?). This number is going to be the chartbuster and also the top ring tone in the coming days. A sad version of Sahana… sung by Vijay Yesudas and Gomathy Sree is there in the CD, only a one-line bit is there in the cassette. What make the sad version so good is the flute and the humming of Vijay. This song may give Vijay the big ticket to playback singing. Next is the all important title song Vaaji, vaaji… sung by Hariharan and Madhusree. It is comparatively a slow melody written by Vairamuthu with a rhythmic beat, that picks up as the number progresses. The mood and the music changes drastically in the next number, by one of Rahman’s favourites Blaaze, Naresh Iyer and Raqueeb Alam with The Boss a loud rap number. This we are sure would be a sort of theme music of the film, with deft camera movement as we follow the superstar. Lyrics written by Na. Muthukumar are inane like Sachin adicha sixer, Sivaji adicha puncher daanada !! Obviously it is another song to hype the superstar’s larger than- life image. Finally the last song in the album is Athiradee sung by the maestro and Sayanora. The grand old man of Tamil songs Vaali is playing to the galleries. Last time in Chandramukhi Vaali wrote what many people thought was the most popular number in the movie, which had many populist lines. So here he has made it even more funky with Thee, thee, jagajyothee, jagajyothee. Billa, Ranga, Baasha dhan ivan pistol pesum …, giving our superstar a macho image, to attract the youth audience. Vaali also tries rhyming ‘castro’ with ‘maestro’. This will be a hot dance number in the discos. Rahman has done a R.D Burman (he is a big fan of Panchim da) style rendition, with some voice modulation. To sum it up Sivaji is one of the best albums of A.R Rahman- Shankar combination, which is sure to be lapped up by the superstar’s fans. Verdict- R O C K I N G ! Courtesy: Sify.com |
Sivaji audio – first week report – with statistics
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Are you one of the die hard fans of Rajinikanth or A.R.Rahman who eagerly wants to know how the audio of Sivaji is doing? Well, the verdict is out and it’s a clear thumping victory for one of the best teams of Indian Cinema history (AVM-Shankar-Rajini-Rahman). | |||||
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As reported by us earlier, punch dialogues of Sivaji as caller tones; imagine the response. You won’t be able to make three calls in a row without hearing the superstar. That is brand Rajni for you! Courtesy: Behindwoods.com | |||||
Wednesday, April 11, 2007
Audio raises expectations on Sivaji
Ever since the audio launch of Sivaji, expectations are soaring high among the Rajini-fans. Now director Shankar is busy pre-occupied with A R Rahman to get the re-recording works for Sivaji completed.
Buzz is that the magnum opus movie produced by AVM Productions in their golden jubilee year would hit the screens on 17 May.
The re-recording works are on at London. Rahman completed the first half of re-recording for Sivaji at Paraguay while the second half is on at London.
The re-recording would match the world standards and the music composer is using the latest and innovative instruments to produce a different sound.
Meanwhile Shankar is also busy with getting ready the trailer for Sivaji."
Courtesy: IndiaGlitz.com
Sivaji re-recording in London and South America
a.r.rahman
This news is substantiated by the fact that A R Rahman has packed his bags off to London last month to oversee the arrangements made for the recording.
Meanwhile, the shooting is also not completely done with. Director Shankar, who has an eye for detail and who is keen that every frame of the movie should be talked about is shooting another song sequence at AVM Studios. Insiders say that huge pricey sets have been constructed for this purpose."
Courtesy: Behindwoods.com
Sunday, April 08, 2007
Friday, April 06, 2007
A R Rahman pleases his fans
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Rajini fans elated
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Wednesday, April 04, 2007
Sivaji - audio sales - an exclusive report
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| The curiosity aroused by the cover of the audio and the stills that go with it remained unabated. Though today is the beginning of the week, this did not deter people from flocking to their favorite audio shops to purchase CDS and cassettes of Sivaji. Ritchie Street in Chennai which is considered as the hub of audio sales commenced their trade officially as early as 5 in the morning. When an audio shop near Devi theatre in Anna Salai was probed, he answered that he began his sale only around 6 in the morning when his counterparts were ahead of him by one hour already. He reported that till 2 in the afternoon, around 300 cassettes and 200 CDs have already been sold. While Music World, Spencer’s Plaza reported that they have already sold 400 CDS before 2 PM in the afternoon and stated that the trend was much expected and they have stocked enough to meet the demand. Courtesy: Behindwoods.com | ||||||||||
Tamilcinema.com Sivaji music review
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Sivaji - Rahman delivers, big time
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 People talk of the pressure of expectations on Sachin Tendulkar whenever he steps out to bat in Indian colours. But spare a thought for A R Rahman too. The Mozart of Madras is in no less unenviable position. Every time a film’s audio for which he has scored music is out, the whole world sits up to listen. And for Sivaji, the pressure is three-fold, as he has to satisfy his own fans, that of Rajinikanth and Shankar too. In such a situation, when you have constituencies to live up to, the music inevitably is populist. In Sivaji, Rahman’s music works at two levels — as he shows glimpses of his own splendid arrangement-orchestration skills. The second is in smart packaging in an effort to live up to the myriad demands of diverse sections. The seven tracks in the album don’t fit in a particular genre. And that is to be expected. Some of them appeal instantaneously. And some, like many Rahman numbers, take time to settle down. Mass elements are inevitably there. It is to Rahman’s credit (and genius) that he has managed to incorporate melody within the ambit of rhythm-based numbers. Balelakka: SPB, Raihanah, Benny & Chorus Lyrics: Na. Muthukumar A Rajini introduction song is a non-negotiable instrument of sorts. It has to have SPB belting it out with his unmistakable gusto. It has to have some pulsating beats. It must make you snap the fingers and tap the foot. This song makes you do all that and plus some more. SPB is amazing with his breath-controlled rendering. This man never ceases to amaze us. He might be over 60. But who would say that after listening to this number. The interludes and the rhythms give an extra pep to the proceedings. Raihanah (Rahman’s sister) and Benny also chip in with their best. Muthukumar’s lyrics set out in typical fashion. Style: Rags, Tanvi, Suresh Peters, Blaaze Lyrics: Pa Vijay  The song works in many ways as it has a variegated pattern to it. As the initial words suggest, the song talks of style, which is the essence of Rajini. But Rahman, as he is wont to, has worked the tune in a slightly recondite way, in that it moves around an attractively bewildering manner. You have Blaaze letting out his typical staccato rap bits while Suresh Peters bungs in his anglicized rendering. And suddenly, almost catching you unawares, you have Tanvi chipping in with a beautiful morsel in traditional Tamil. Though the song is multi-dimensional, it works, especially with its surprise swerves and Rahman’s mastery over arrangements. Style is in Rajini and Rahman too. Vaaji Vaaji: Hariharan, Madhushree & Chorus. Lyrics: Vairamuthu Perhaps this will be the anthem of the State for some time to come. Musically, the song may have nothing new. But Rahman’s genius lies in packaging. Building layer by layer, he lets the song rise up like a beautifully created skyscraper that is high on both aesthetics and utility. Rahman has made Hariharan croon in a un-Hariharan-like manner. Perhaps that maybe the trick that makes the song work and makes Vairamuthu’s lyrics stand out in beautiful relief. Madhushree is adequate without being anything extraordinary. The tempo and the beats make this a good mass song. Athiradee: AR Rahman, Sayanora Lyrics: Vaali This is straight away Rahman turf. The man knows which song to pick and sing. His nasal twang may not appeal the first time. But they just take control of you over a period of time. Athiradee does. The lyrics are unabashedly Vaali as he plays to the gallery big time. But his smart mind chisels out interesting lines. Vaali deserves special plaudits for his ability to think in sync with the modern generation. The rollicking beats and the guitar ensemble give a good edifice for the song as Rahman gives it all he has. As a singer, Rahman has also improvised, and innovated, with his voice. The effect is ethereal. The song takes time to take effect on you, but once it does it doesn’t vanish. That’s Rahman effect for you. A high-octane song. Sahana: Udit Narayanan, Chinmayee Lyrics: Vairamuthu  When it comes to Tamil words, Udit Narayanan’s tongue becomes a knife of sorts as they (words) are chopped mercilessly. But here you will almost forget that failing as the song and its inherent melody fill you in a cool embrace. Chinmayee is Rahman’s big weapon. He uses her for songs that deserve something special. Right from Kannathil Muthamittal we have been seeing that. Here too the young girl sings with a rare elan which comes from the combination of talent and intelligence. Chimayee’s speciality is that she is no one-type singer. She can deliver according to the needs. The Rahman interlude (in voice) adds a special mystique appeal to the number. A honey-dipped flower. That is this song for you. The Boss: Blaaze, Naresh Iyer, Raqueeb Alam Lyrics: Na.Muthukumar, Blaaze Probably the theme number. Or a kind of leitmotif in the movie. The song has its limitations as it is perhaps situational. The lyrics too are puerile as the words are forced and stretch for effect. The rap bit is on expected lines. Naresh Iyer dulcet voice manages to leave a mark even in this small piece. Sahara: Vijay Yesudas, Gomathi Sree & Chorus Lyrics: Vairamuthu This seems to be a modulated version of the Sahana song. But what a beauty it is. Rahman’s mastery is all pervading. He has fused a variety of ideas into this one number and his unquestionable brilliance with soft instruments show up elegantly. The way he has got Gomathi Sree slip in that Thirupavai bit underscores his virtuosity. And she also rises to the occasion quite brilliantly. But the song-stealer is Vijay Yesudas. The young man shows that he is well and truly on the way to filling the perch that once belonged to his illustrious dad. Vijay is very soothing and pleasing in this number. When he and a tiny flute join forces, you could almost feel heaven A fitting finale to a rocking album. To be sure, there will be different opinions on the songs. There will be carping critics who will pronounce that the album doesn’t measure to usual Rahman standards. But you have to take into consideration the situation that Rahman was working under. All things considered, you can unequivocally say that Rahman has delivered. Sivaji songs will be heard for a long, long time. Courtesy: Indiaglitz.com |
AR Rahman pleases Rajni fans with Sivaji
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Finally, the most-awaited Sivaji album has been released. The film Sivaji -- The Boss has the biggest Tamil cinema stalwarts lined up under highly reputed AVM banner -- director Shankar; composer A R Rahman; lyricists Valee, Vairamuthu, Pa Vijay, Muthukumar; cinematographer K V Anand; dialogue writer Sujatha; art director Thotta Tharani; choreographers Prabhudeva, Raju Sundaram, Lawrence and Brinda; and, over and above all, superstar Rajnikanth in the title role. Shriya Saran plays the female lead. Incidentally, Sivaji is director Shankar's ninth film, and Rajni's ninth with AVM. The title of the film resonates with Rajnikanth's real name, Shivaji Rao Gaekwad. Previously director Shankar always managed to keep movie details close to his chest till the release. But Sivaji became an exception with first the storyline becoming common knowledge, and then three music tracks leaked on the Internet. Shankar's films always deal with malpractices in various sectors of society. Likewise, Sivaji also is supposed to be the story of an NRI crusading against the capitation fee syndrome, the bane of our educational system. A R Rahman's compositions are in tune with the crusader image of the film's protagonist. The lyricists have milked Rajnikanth's screen image to the fullest, making the line dividing the actor and the character very thin. They are really on an overkill trip. The album kicks off with the foot tapping number Balleilakka aggressively rendered by S P Balasubramaniam, Rehanah Benny and an effective chorus. The opening line has a faint echo of Rahman's Veerapandi kottayilae from his own Thiruda Thiruda. Lyricist Na Muthukumar eulogises Tamil Nadu and the Tamilian's supportive camaraderie with his neighbours. He also paints a larger than life picture of the hero comparing him to the sun, moon and even Shiva the destroyer, with lines like 'he can even turn Tamil Nadu into America.' SPB's rendition is vibrant and the fast pace towards the end makes him sound breathless. The number has aggressive percussion and faint melodious nuances in between. The racy track Oru koodal sunlight follows with obvious reference to the superstar's sobriquet 'Stylemannan.' It is a scrappy number with Pa Vijay's lyrics, a medley of bits and pieces of phrases. He even coins new appellations for the hero like 'heerathihero!' Rags, Tanvi, Suresh Peters and Blaze belt out this peppy piece. Fast beats and Tanvi's whispery rendition give it a sensuous touch. Sahana saral thoovutho is a melodious piece with western instrumentation. This is the only track (along with the Vaji vaji number later) with significant lyrics. Vairamuthu's lyrics have an appealing freshness and originality. This track, a love duet rendered by Udit Narayan and the dulcet-voiced Chinmayi, has been embellished with a sprightly chorus. The only jarring note is Narayan's stilted Tamil diction. A second version of Sahana, much better than the first, soulfully rendered by Vijay Jesudas, comes later. Gomathi Sri replaces Chinmayi in this version full of pain and pathos. It is a pity this second version is not included in the cassette, but only on the CD. Gomathi Sri's voice, though a bit babyish, has an identity of its own. Vaji Vaji is the title track, with all the potential to become a chartbuster -- pleasing rhythm and a powerful rendition by Hariharan and Madhusree, good instrumentation, fast beats, lively chorus, and a good melody. Vairamuthu's lyrics exude passion, but thankfully not excessively. Up next is the theme song Vata vata by Blaze, Naresh Iyer and Raqueeb Alam. Beginning in hip-hop style with a few English words thrown in, the track soon slides into rap. As in earlier numbers, the lyrics (Na Muthukumar with Blaze) picturise a superhero 'who can gobble up even a lion like a jalebi!' Rahman the composer as singer comes into his element with concluding track Athiradi. Another chartbuster in the making, it is incendiary stuff with power-packed percussion. The solo guitar and Rahman's singing -- with a manic vibrancy in his soaring voice -- really adds to its impact. This will be a hot favourite on the dance floors. The lyrics are more or less irrelevant in these kind of songs, and Valee's lyrics -- with titles of some Rajni films and a spatter of English words -- fall in line. Rajni fans will have a field day listening to this album because the lyrics are more synonymous with his film persona than his character in the film.. Rahman's music is such that it takes repeated listens, and time to grow on you. Only Athiradi captures your sensibility instantly. The other numbers are worth a listen, but feature nothing extraordinary. They make you yearn for the old Rahman of Gentleman and Roja. An album in tune with the pulse of the current generation. Rediff Rating: Courtesy: Rediff.com |
Sivaji the Boss audio creates record in sales!!
Sivaji audio is rocking all over the state and it is selling like
hotcake allover the city and neighbouring states Karnataka and Bangalore.
In Bangalore, according to the information from Bangalore friend
Stalin, all the cds have been sold within 2 hrs and now they are being
sold in black for Rs.250/-. Many who stood in a long queue were
disappointed not getting the cd.
Some came to Hosur by byke and purchased the cds.
AVM circle says that in their whole experience this is the first time
they are being asked second load of cds and cassettes.
In chennai many shops witnessed a thunderous sales within a few hours
the cds arrived and they were almost empty.
Asusual in Madurai, fans seems to have performed abhishekam, karpooram
arathi and others.
wait for more updates.
Courtesy: Sivajimovie.blogspot.com
Wednesday, March 28, 2007
Sivaji – The invasion of the American rappers
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With the technical postmortem to find the source of leakage of audio clips of Sivaji going on in full swing, the producers – AVM, might not be as well be very disappointed with the developments. | |||||
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The power of two Ra’s – Rajini & Rahman. Courtesy: Behindwoods.com | |||||
Thursday, March 22, 2007
Pray For Me Brother - Review
A.R. Rahman has been known for his contribution to social causes. This is the reason why when he comes up with just a single, even that makes a lot of news since it deals with global issue of poverty that comes due to war and terror.
As a joint initiative of A.R. Rahman Foundation and Nokia Nseries, 'Pray For Me Brother' is a song that is dedicated to inspire people to eradicate poverty from our world. As per the credits, the song is special since it aims at giving hope to all people suffering from oppression, injustice and cruelty due to foreign forces or their own cruel leaders. And to those that are deprived of love and compassion and to fill the void which exists in each and everyone of us. And last but not the least to those that are searching for a reason to be kind.
With Blaaze coming up with additional lyrics, 'Pray For Me Brother' has Rahman coming with an all around show by writing, composing and rendering the track. Starting with the sound of a guitar, 'Pray For Me Brother' is a true Western track that is indeed one of its kinds and perhaps the first ever of this genre to be getting such a wide release.
While the music is simply excellent with just the right orchestra in place that doesn't disturb the flow of the song and let's it's essence being intact, the lyrics simply touch your heart while the rendition is top class that makes one long for a full blown English album by Rahman soon.
Also commendable is the fact that in spite of a message driving the entire number, 'Pray For Me Brother' doesn't turn preachy at all and would be picked up by people across all age groups who would love to play it on in a repeat mode due to it's soothing nature - something that holds so very true when the 'Instrumental version' of the song comes next.
The chorus sound of 'Pray For Me Brother' continues to play around in the background for this version which only adds on to the appeal. With Carrie Hernly, Oboe-Leigh and Wootard on Saxophone and Seetha Shivaswamy on Flute, the instrumental version too is hard to put down.
With the message of coming together of humankind and showing compassion, respect and love for each other, the song comes with a definite message and is an eye opener of sorts. A flawless composition that keeps you engrossed throughout it's 5 minutes duration, it is a must hear for those who love to hear quality music and crave for something international coming out from English shores.
Rating: ****
Courtesy: Indiaglitz.com
Sunday, February 25, 2007
Rahman's new song for International Charts
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| number for a noble cause to support the vision of Millennium Development Goals.The Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) was formed from the pact that was signed in the year 2000 at the significant UN Millennium Summit held at New York by Prime Ministers, Presidents, and other noted leaders from 189 countries. Rahman is an ardent supporter of MDGs that functions with an aim to eradicate poverty, hunger, and disease in the world by 2015. 'Pray For Me Brother' will be made available on the Millennium campaign's website www.millenniumcampaign.org, for free downloads according to Salil Shetty, director of the Millennium Campaign, New York. The song will also be used for the organization's global campaign to propagate its goals around the world including Europe and the US. Rahman mentioned that this song would be India's rendition to the world in achieving the cause of MDGs. "Hunger is the only common thing among people and it is only to survive that people beg. I hope that this song will inspire people to do something to eradicate those kind of social evils", the maestro added. Not many people knew that Rahman has been appointed by the UN as Brand Ambassador to eradicate tuberculosis. "It was while planning to compose a song for the same that I started to think about the much bigger universal issue - poverty and hunger. I decided to shift the focus and with the help of my friend Blaaze came up with the song", revealed Rahman. A 'stand up' event - to promote the cause of the Millenium Campaign and its Civil Society partners - was held in October, which registered a record attendance of 23 million people participating for the MDGs. Out of which 18 million joined from Asia and 9.7 from India. Time to make the world a better place. Courtesy: Behindwoods.com | |||||||||||
Friday, February 16, 2007
Rahman receives Swaralaya award
The presentation ceremony which was held at the Nishagandhi open-air auditorium was attended by eminent cultural figures of Malayalam.
The award carries a cash prize of Rs. 1 Lakh, a citation and a statuette designed by famous sculptor, Kanayi Kunhiraman.
Yesudas, speaking on the occasion, appreciated the multiple talents of Rahman and acknowledged him as the best of his times. He added that A.R. Rahman's manifestation of talent is the result of his long struggle and unstinting hard work.
Rahman after receiving the award remembered his olden days when he worked under noted music director Arjunan Master at a salary of Rs. 50. Rahman opined that he is overwhelmed to received the award and said that Yesudas' is his most favorite voice.
Courtesy: IndiaGlitz.com
Wednesday, February 14, 2007
AR Rahman honoured
Few days back, we had informed you about the Kerala based Swaralaya’s decision to honour AR Rahman with Swaralaya-Kairali-Yesudas Award for 2007.
The award was given to the young prodigy yesterday, by eminent singer Yesudas, at a function held at Thiruvananthapuram.
Awards are not new to Rahman. He has always made us proud with his versatile genius and we at indiaglitz wish him all the best to continue doing us proud."
Courtesy: IndiaGlitz.com
AR Rahman releases an album
Vikku Vinayakram, the ghatam maestro, received the first copy of the album.
This album is said to be an attempt at traversing borders, as it offers a rich blend of traditional and contemporary sounds in a way that is sure to leave listeners spellbound.
With globalization being today’s watchword, an attempt like this surely deserves appreciation and we at indiaglitz applaud the effort from the violin wizards at taking music to the next level."
Courtesy: IndiaGlitz.com
Sunday, February 11, 2007
Rahman – "The intro songs that I wrote for Rajini"
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There was no plan earlier for an introductory song in Sivaji. However it was later decided to have one and when Shankar approached me for the same I put the best of my efforts, Rahman answered for a question. "The song has come out really well. Shankar showed me a few rushes and there is now one more reason for me to be a Rajini fan", adds the Mozart. He further assured that Sivaji's music would outperform Baba. On talking about intro songs for the Superstar,"Rajini's introduction songs are always a challenge. I enjoyed doing Oruvan Oruvan Mudhalali in Muthu. That had a bit of philosophical touch to it. Singa nadai pottu from Padayappa was created based on folk tunes, whereas Vettri kodi kattu from the same movie had fast beats and trumpet just to bring out the speed with which the protagonist grows in his life. Working for Padayappa was definitely a great experience. Rajinikanth is very clear about the music that his fans expect from him movies". On few of the missed ones, "Mudhalvane song from Mudhalvan was written with Rajini in mind. For some reason Rajinikanth didn't act in the movie. One more introductory song was composed when Jaggubhai was announced. However, the project was shelved later and I used the song for S.J.Surya's Anbe Aruyire." Sivaji's shoot schedules are nearing completion and the movie is slated for a late April 2007 release. The audio is expected to be released by mid March. | |||||||||||
Courtesy: Behindwoods.com
Monday, February 05, 2007
A.R.Rahman to be honored
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Friday, February 02, 2007
Yesudas to felicitate A R Rahman
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Swaralaya Kairali is an organization that honors and confers Yesudas award every year for people belonging to music field. This year, A R Rahman is the proud recipient of this prestigious award. The grand award ceremony is slated to be held on the 12th of February this year at Trivandrum, Kerala. Rahman will receive this award from Yesudas. A spectacular music show featuring both north Indian and south Indian music has been intended. | |||||
