‘I am overwhelmed by the positive response from people for Kaavaalaa song from Jailer’, says singer Shilpa Rao.
Speaking to News Today, the young playback singer says, ‘This is my first song in a Rajnikant sir film, so I am incredibly excited about it.’
Excerpts from her interview
Q: On the response to the song Kaavaalaa in Jailer
A: For this particular song, Anirudh called me and informed me that it was a complete female song, so I should just go for it. When I first heard the song, I was genuinely surprised because it was unlike anything I had sung before. I am overwhelmed by the positive response from people who are loving it. I am very excited to see the song come to life.
Q: On singing for Rajinikanth’s film …
A: When working on any song, the goal is never to make it a hit but rather to create something that we all enjoy. Singing the song in the studio is only half the work; the rest is done during the shoot. This was my first time singing for Rajnikant Sir, so I was incredibly excited about it. Tamannaah’s expressions during the shoot were phenomenal, and she and Rajni Sir have delivered an exceptional performance. She looks absolutely gorgeous.
Q: How was it collaborating with Anirudh?
A: I had no idea how he envisioned me in this song, but it’s always the composer’s vision. They see something ahead of time, and Anirudh gave me complete freedom to choose my scale, whatever suited me best. He really wanted my voice to stand out in the song, so we recorded it with that intention. It was a great experience recording with him; it felt like a jam session, which I prefer. He prefers being in the same room because the energy translates better into the song. I had a fantastic time singing it.
Q: You have previously worked with Ilayaraja (Paa). Could you share your experience working with him?
A: It was a pleasant surprise for me when I had the opportunity to collaborate with Ilayaraja during the making of ‘Paa’. This happened soon after my second year in the industry, right after completing ‘Khuda Jaane’. Working with a maestro of his caliber was an unexpected and remarkable experience. Witnessing his discipline and unwavering focus on music was a valuable lesson for me.
Q: The emergence of independent music in India.
I believe that music is simply music, and I don’t differentiate between music for films and other purposes. I take every song very seriously; it is essential and personal to me. Collaborating with all these individuals has been a stroke of luck, and I hope to collaborate with even more artistes in the future.
Q: What is your message for aspiring singers?
A: My message to all the newcomers and young aspiring musicians out there would be to learn and receive formal training in any form of music that you love.