Fond of jewellery, music director Bappi Lahiri pioneered the use of disco music in films like Disco Dancer, Namak Halaal and Sharaabi. Fast forward to the present, he's now releasing a pop album called My Love
BY SUPRIYA DAVDA | JUN 25, 2009
Q. What is the genre of new album My Love?
A. My Love is an RnB album. Songs have a very American beat to them. It features American rapper Jeddah in the song Phoola Se Poocha. It is the top ranked album in India at the moment; I am really pleased it's a huge success.
Q. What do you think of the music composers at present?
A. I have been in this industry since the 70's, I have seen all sorts of work, and have had the honour and privilege to work with the likes of Kishore Kumar, Lata Mangeshkar, Asha Bhosle. Although the music currently is good, we are missing that golden element from the golden era.
Q. Are you handing over the reins to your son Bappa now?
A. No such thing as handing over the reins, Bappa is doing really well for himself, he is making me proud. A lot of films are coming out where he has composed the music, recently Jai Veeru and Jaane Bhi Do Yaaron.
Q. Are you seriously making your debut in films too?
A. Oh ya I have some very big projects. I am making my debut in Main Aur Mrs Khanna starring Salman Khan and Kareena Kapoor. I had a fantastic time working with both of them. Definitely a memorable experience. I have also produced a Hindi and Bengali film; more will be said about these in the latter part of the year.
Q. Any reason why you sport such extravagant jewellery?
A. I am known for my various accessories, within America and here I am known as the golden man. I love the imagine given to me. I am in advertisement in India, endorsing 7UP and the tag is simply "I am a Golden Man You Are My Golden Fan".
Q. As a singer which composer do you like to work with the most?
A. Most definitely A R Rahman, I did a song for him in Guru called Jodi. I would love to work with him again.
Q. Will we see you on anymore reality shows?
A. Yes after the success of K for Kishore, Sa Re Ga Ma Pa and Sa re Ga Ma Pa Little Champs, I am working on a Bengali reality show Bengali Shurdoriyo (Music's Ocean). The competition will focus around musical talent within India and Bangladesh.
Q. Mauli Dave who was under your supervision during Sa Re Ga Ma Pa, have you signed her on to work with you since her participation on the show?
A. Oh yes she has sung for Bappa in Jai Veeru. Sumedha and Raja Hasaan who were also contestants have been signed for future projects.
Q. Lastly a principle, moral you go by in life?
A. Be a good human, talk nicely to people, public is my God, I'd like to thank the public for their constant generosity, I salute my fans.
