If Music be the food of Love...

Raajaavin Paarvai RaaNiyin pakkam

2010-05-30T00:31:00.000+01:00

I sang my part in this song in Nov’09 and it was supposed to be with Sukumar (with whom I have sung another song from the same movie )

Then we both lost interest in this song and drifted to other numbers. So this file was idling away in my PC for a few month….until I found “Gopi”:http://www.muziboo.com/gshanmugam/ here in Muziboo. Thanks a lot to Sukumar for having sacrificed (Vittu kuduthufied- LOL) this opportunity to Gopi (who is also from near his native place, I believe! Ippo theriyuthu- ithu Oor pattRu)

Gopi shares an intense passion for songs from yesteryears and I was pleasantly shocked to see songs in his wishlist that tallied with mine. While we are still looking for all those tracks, we thought we will do this one first and get to the rest when my exams are over. In the process, it seems like I have tormented him too much with all my pointers on his singing and mixing. So if he is not fed up with me already, you may hear more old duets from us in time to come.

Movie: Anbe Vaa (1966)
Music: Mellisai Mannar M.S.Viswanathan
Originally sung by: TM.Soundararajan, P.Susheela
Mixing: Gopi Shanmugam

P.S: The track has a slight problem in the pallavi where the tune was trying to gallop with the horses in the movie sequence :D. Please do bear with this hitch

Old is Gold: Raajavin Paarvai- with Gopi Shanmugam | Music Codes

Anuraagalola Gaathri

2010-05-30T00:28:00.000+01:00

It is always a pleasure to work with Kumar Srinivasan. I learn something each time I do a song with him. But the immense trouble I give him while doing Malayalam songs(with my diction) is perhaps a factor that could put anyone else off quite easily.

I fell in love with this song when Kumar introduced me to it. Perhaps a very pure form of Gowri Manohari (later came to know that it is actually based on the Hindustani raaga Patdeep) woven into this dreamy tune, aptly sung by LJY and P.Susheela(who is also an unusual but befitting choice for this song).

Movie: Dhwani
Music: Naushad
Lyrics: Yousuf Ali Kechery
Originally sung by: KJYesudas, P.Susheela
Mixing: Kumar Srinivasan

Anuraagalola Gaathri- with Kumar Srinivasan | Musicians Available

Nilaa Kaayum Neram Saranam

2010-05-30T00:26:00.000+01:00

I recorded this song a while ago but kept poor Shrini waiting all these days before posting! Thanks a lot, Shrini! :)

So many nostalgic memories from this song for me :)……I am sure most of you will agree if I said this is probably one of the most difficult songs to render on stage. Phew! And to hear SJ traversing so effortlessly definitely gives me a terrible complex! :P. I think it is one of Mano’s best songs for IR.

Movie: Sembarutthi
Music: Ilayaraaja
Originally sung by: Mano, S.Janaki
Mixing: Srinivasan.S

Nilaa Kaayum Neram Saranam- with Shrinesh | Upload Music

Nenjamellaam Kaadhal

2010-05-30T00:23:00.000+01:00

This is perhaps one of ARR’s duets I would have listened to the most. I damaged 2 CDs of “Ayutha Ezhutthu” with the repeated plays on my car’s player :P

I generally am very wary about choosing Sujatha’s songs since they require a lot of energy ( and a lot more smiling too :D) and highpitch singing. But I had to do this one for the love of the song- the harmonies are to die for! I particularly enjoyed the lyrics and of course the picturisation :)

I am so happy (and lucky) to be singing with George after nearly 2 years. He is perhaps of the highest calibre of singers here, and anywhere, and never ceases to amaze us with each song he sings. I could think of nobody else but George to do this song with. My sincere thanks to him for his patience and hardwork, especially with the Tamil lyrics. The funniest part is that he was very sceptical about getting this right- he thought he would kill the song :D. On the contrary, I believe he has outdone Adnan in many places! I rate this as one of his best Indian numbers. Of course, it is for you all to decide now.

Movie: Aayutha Ezhutthu
Music: ARRahman
Originally sung by: Adnan Sami, Sujatha
Mixing: George Kuruvilla
Track courtesy: Rajkumar Anjan/ Sanjay Satheesh

Nenjamellaam- with George Kuruvilla | Music Codes

Thendral Vanthu Theendum Poathu

2010-05-18T11:30:00.000+01:00

Recently, I met with a painter/ artist to help her with creating visual media exhibits for an upcoming intercultural festival in Dublin.
I was telling her how I had no clue of how to interpret modern art (or any painting for that matter) and didn't quite understand their language.

We then spoke about music and how I expressed fluently through music. That is when the connection struck me. If only I could find that missing link between music and painting- I know there is one since they both are expressions of the heart and mind- it would complete the puzzle.

This song is for my soul! It is perhaps one of the best duets ever from Ilayaraaja-SJ duo. Balaji was a natural choice- not because of the IR-like voice or his love for IR- but because he connects to the song exactly the same way as I do. The beauty of the song is the simplicity of the tune with no throat-wrecking sangathis. The feel of the song is just enough to make one forget oneself and get sucked in. The first 2 lines are alone 10 beats whereas everything else is 8 beats as usual. Of course, it is allowed of Maestros to take such liberty in breaking rules! :)

Its a beautiful idea to try and explain the Colours to a visually impaired girl. She can't connect to it visually but through her other senses and through the extra sense called Love. One of Nasser's and Revathi's best movies, I wasn't very impressed with it then. But now, I do understand and appreciate the beauty of this concept.

The sheer pleasure of doing the harmonies for this song is unmatched by anything yet. And to revisit the vocals each time Balaji's keen ears caught something very minute, was with a delerious effort to get the best out of us both! Of course, a very dear piece of work like this had to be mixed by one of the best people in here so we had to pester Balamurali again.

I have to mention about Balaji's stupendous performance here. I haven't seen a keener pair of ears than his to date. And he simply doesn't let you rest till a defect is sorted. I think this song is his best to date. But I know he is capable of greater things- this is just the beginning! :)

Movie :Avathaaram
Music: Isaignaani Ilayaraaja
Originally sung by : Ilayaraaja, S.Janaki
Harmonies: Adithi
Mixing :Balamurali Bala
Track Courtesy :Rajkumar Anjan/ Sanjay Satheesh

Thendral Vanthu Theendum- with Balaji Seetharaman | Musicians Available

Varuthu Varuthu

2010-05-16T18:54:00.000+01:00

Sukumar and I decided to do this song long back, even when we sang "Vechukkavaa".

It is a very important song in my life! It was the first song that I sang on stage with orchestration :) I was in Class 5 then and sang with my uncle. You should have seen how scared I was, not of stage singing but of my mom who was in the front row signalling every offnote/ mistake with a frown! :)

I think it is Sukumar's best till date. No offnotes and that too with a single take recording! I knew he was capable of that perfection with some diligence and seriousness :). Awesome mixing by Vishnu too!

Movie :Thoongathe Thambi Thoongathe
Music: Ilayaraaja
Originaly sung by: SPB, S.JANAKI
Mixing: Vishnu Mohan

Varuthu Varuthu with Adithi | Upload Music

Raamanin Mohanam

2010-05-16T18:47:00.000+01:00

My pleasure to be singing again with Maruthi, one of the best known voices for soft numbers in our Music circle! :)

Movie: NettrikkaNN
Music: Ilayaraaja
Originally sung by: KJYesudas, S.Janaki

Ramanin mohanam with ( Adithi Devarajan ) | Musicians Available

Naadham En Jeevane

2010-05-16T18:44:00.002+01:00

I am sure each of us have a set of songs which we can relate our feelings and emotions to. Not just the lyrics but the tune, the mood it creates, the impact it has on you long after you finished listening- everything adds up to the magic of the song. This is one such song for me.

The movie was a total flop commercially but the music is probably one of the finest pieces of work in Tamil Cinema and created waves. The song is definitely in one of the 10 best solos from S.Janaki in my humble opinion. I was searching for this song for a very long time and the search suddenly ended when I unearthed it from the internet.

Somewhere in the middle of the song (“unthan raja raagam….”), I broke down……

My most sincere thanks to Balamurali Bala for offering to mix this song. He perhaps saved you all from listening to a terrible mix! I couldn’t believe my ears to see how beautifully he had merged the track with my voice. You have a heart of gold, Bala, for spending such precious time on this mix! :)

Please do leave your valuable comments and suggestions. Thanks again for listening! :)

Movie: Kaadhal Oviyam
Music Director: Maestro Ilayaraaja (Bows!!!!!)
Originally sung by : S.Janaki

Naadham En Jeevane | Upload Music

Naina Milaike

2010-05-07T15:21:00.000+01:00

Sudhathee and I sang this song back in Jan’10. The track we could get was only a voicecut one( Courtesy :Vishnu) but we wanted to sing the song so desparately.

The geniuses that they are, Manirathnam and ARR have so beautifully come up with this fabulous idea of a folkish song in the Hindi version in place of “Alaipaayuthe kanna” in the Tamil movie.

I think this song created a record for Vishnu as the most worked on- there were about 12 iterations before we decided on the final version……so sorry Vishnu! We do hope we will make it easier for you the next time when we sing with a much better track :)

You will still hear Sadhana and Madhushree singing in the background but just ignore them for the moment ;) LOL. The initial aalaap has deliberately been mixed in such a way that you can hear both our voices but with a lag.

Movie: Saathiya
Music: ARRahman
Originally sung by: Sadhana Sargam & Madhushree

Mixing: Vishnu Mohan

Naina Milaike- with Sudhathee Sriram | Musicians Available

Ninaivo Oru Paravai

2010-05-07T15:19:00.001+01:00

Though we covered this song a few weeks back, I was constantly troubling Maruthi to revisit the mixing a few times for this song- so that I can post it just in time for his birthday ;)

Maruthi has been greatly instrumental in rekindling the passion for good music in me. I am so fortunate to have met such a musically talented person as him who is a fantastic human being too! I wish him all the very best for a brilliant career in music which is beginning to take off as he is already working on a couple of plum projects back in Chennai :)

This movie and the songs are so dear to me for so many obvious reasons. This is the second song in the movie I am covering. The humming is an absolute killer and we both enjoyed singing it to the core. Hope you like it too. :)

Movie: Sigappu Rojaakkal
Music: Ilayaraaja
Originally sung by: Kamalhassan, S.Janaki
Mixing: Maruthi

Ninaivo Oru Paravai- with Maruthi Nambi | Music Codes

Hai Raama

2010-04-22T17:17:00.000+01:00

My first duet with Unnikrishnan KB! We both share a common thing- love for ARR! :)

This Panthuvarali composition was a toughie for us. Hope you will enjoy Unni's slight twist in the iniial aalaap!

Special thanks to Nitin Dubey for his help with diction correction and mixing!

Movie :Rangeela
Music :A R Rahman
Original Singers : Hariharan, Swarnalatha
Cover : KB, Adithi
Mix : KB

Hai Rama - Rangeela (Hindi Cover) | Music Codes

Elantha Pazham (Madurey)

2010-04-22T17:11:00.000+01:00

Another peppy number that I enjoyed singing quite a while back...

Movie – Madurey (2004)
Music directors- Vidyasagar
Singers- Tippu & Anuradha Sriram
covered by – Roshine , Adithi and Vishnu Mohan
Mixing- V DiGiTaL Sharjah ;)

ELANTHA PAZHAM... WITH ROSHINE AND ADITHI AKKA - VANDU DANCE AADITTU PONGA | Musicians Available

Oh Nanbane

2010-04-22T17:07:00.000+01:00

Movie : Dhil

Music : Vidyasagar

Original Singer(s): Tippu, Karthick & Chitra K.S.

Cover Singer(s): Adithi, Deepesh, Vishnu & Ajay

Oh Nanbane... Happy B'day Raj - with Adithi, Dips & Vishnu | Upload Music

Rojaavai Thaalaattum Thendral

2010-04-22T17:04:00.000+01:00

Another one of my very favourites...a very old post, probably dates back to May'08.

Sung with Shrinesh.S.

Movie: Ninaivellaam Nithya
Music: Ilayaraaja
Sung by: SPB, S.Janaki

Rojavai Thalattum Thendral- with S.Shrinesh | Upload Music

Vellaipura Ondru

2010-04-22T16:51:00.000+01:00

This song was recorded back in Nov'08. One of my alltime favorite duets from the 80s Raja collection!

Thanks, Maruthi, for suggesting this song and mixing it too.

Movie: Puthu Kavithai
Music: Ilayaraaja
Originally sung by: KJY and S.Janaki

Vellaipura Ondru- with Maruthi Nambi | Music Codes

Endhendhu

2010-04-22T16:47:00.000+01:00

This is a beautiful duet that almost every Kannadiga might be familiar with. One of those lilting melodies from the long list of PBS duets for Dr.Rajkumar. This is quite an old recording. As a “BengaLoora Hudugi”, I had been waiting for the right opportunity to sing a nice Kannada song from yesteryears. My wait ended here

Gautam has sung this song so well despite severe issues with his throat.

Movie: Eradu Kanasu
Originally sung by: PB.Sreenivas and Vani Jeyaram
Music Director: Rajan-Nagendra
Lyrics: Chi. Udayashankar

Endendu- With Gautam | Music Codes

Naguva Nayana

2010-04-22T16:44:00.000+01:00

I had been wanting to sing this song for a long time since I listened to Sudhathee’s and Kumaran’s version. I could think of no voice other than Vishak’s to sing with, being one of my favourites here in Muziboo. You were awesome as usual, Vishak, and thanks for waiting so long for me to finish my part! Sudhathee- Thanks for the track di! :)

I hope you will enjoy this beautiful song from Manirathnam’s first movie!

Movie: Pallavi Anupallavi
Music: Ilayaraaja
Originally sung by: SPB, S.Janaki
Mixing: Vishak

Naguva Nayana(Kannada-Ilayaraaja)- with Vishak Subramoney | Music Codes

Zoobi Doobi

2010-04-22T16:22:00.000+01:00

Thank you, Deepesh , for asking me to sing this song with you! I seriously didn’t think I could do it till you convinced me! :)

Shreya and Sonu are at their absolute best in this song that never fails to create a joyful mood. A huge thanks to Vishnu for mixing it for us. Please bear with the not-so-good track quality since a voicecut track is all that we could get- that’s how desperate we were to cover this song! :).

This is a birthday dedication to our sweet Muziboo friend Anniekutty.

Movie: 3 Idiots
Originally sung by: Shreya Ghoshal, Sonu Nigam
Mixing: Vishnu Mohan

Zoobi Doobi- with Deepesh Ak | Upload Music

Ariyoru Paalkadal- My first Original! :)

2010-04-22T16:20:00.000+01:00

It is a beautiful start of the New Year for me as I bring to you my very first official original composition rendition in Muziboo.

First and foremost, my sincere thanks and salutations to Rajeev ONV for believing in me and entrusting this song to me to work on.I consider myself very fortunate to work with a fabulous composer as him and have learnt so many things in the process of completing the song. I wish I had had the mighty good fortune of a face-to-face interaction with him for it would have definitely been a huge learning and articulate session to bring out the nuances in a more effective way.

Here is a short introduction to this song in the words of the composer :

“This is a song composed for a choreographic presentation depicting the three expressions of the Universal Mother- as Lakshmy, the goddess of fortune and beauty, Parvathy the goddess of power and energy, and Saraswathy the goddess of learning and wisdom. The final stanza invokes all the three deities as Satyam, Shivam and Sundaram.

I have composed this in four different ragas-the first stanza on Lakshmy in Harikamboji, second stanza on Parvathy in Gowri Manohari, third stanza on Saraswathy in Kalyani, and the final stanza in Sree raagam.

I had invited Adithi to sing this ragamalika, and she happily obliged me with her beautiful rendering. She had taken a few creative liberties with the song, which I feel has enhanced its musical quality. We had tried our best to neutralise diction problems and the whole process had taken some time. I have to appreciate her concern for musical and technical perfection and her willingness to modify and create better versions. It gives me great happiness to present this song here on this auspicious day of Vishu."

Lyrics : ONV Kurup

I would like to thank my friends, Saravanan and Vishnu Mohan for mixing this song amidst their very busy schedule. The post here is Vishnu’s version.

I would like to thank one more friend of mine who has been instrumental in boosting my confidence since my early days in Muziboo. It was Murali Venkatraman who approached me first to sing some compositions of his own. Over the past few months, my learning has been at an amazing pace, thanks to Murali who taught me the methodology to handle such assignments. So a toast to you, Murali, and thanks for all the time you have spent to get me this far :).

The journey is long and this is only the beginning . But the most important thing to me is that I have made it to here :)

Ariyoru PaalkaDal- Original Composition by Rajeev ONV | Musicians Available

Yaaro Yaarukkul

2010-04-22T16:18:00.000+01:00

Track courtesy: www.ajaykumars.com :)

I fell in love instantly with this tune when I first heard it. The naughtiness in the voices of SPB and Chithra is too infectious! :)The song so reminds me of an old composition “Unnai Thotta thendral vanthu” by Bala Bharathi in the movie “Thalai Vaasal”. It is only to easy to switch between the two songs which are in the same beat and also sung by the same singers. A very intelligent job by YSR there I must say! :)

I am so glad to be singing this song with Sriram Srinivasan whose voice fits this song to the T in my opinion.

Movie: Chennai 600028
Music :Yuvan Shankar Raja
Originally sung by : SPB, K.S.Chithra
Harmonies: Adithi and Sriram
Mixing: Sriram Srinivasan

Yaaro Yaarukkul - with Sriram Srinivasan | Music Codes

Abhi Naa Jaao

2010-04-22T16:17:00.000+01:00

First of all, I would like to thank Saqib Javed for inviting me to sing this song with him and believing that I could do it!

I love this immortal melody by Mohd. Rafi Saab and Ashaji, particularly the amazing expressions by both singers. I believe that Saqib has done a wonderful job here! :)

My Hindi/Urdu diction has been severely criticized before. Hence, I have done some homework to improve it as much as possible with some help from Saqib. Do let me know if it has been effective.

On a lighter note, I was so excited to know that Saqib is from Karachi,Pakistan(being the birthplace of my late father, I have a special liking for the city). So I tell Saqib that he can count on me to support his music (except on India-Pak cricket match days ofcourse!!!) :D

Movie: Hum Dono (1961)
Music Director: Jaidev
Originally sung by : Mohammad Rafi and Asha Bhonsle
Mixing: Saqib Javed

Abhi Naa Jaao - with Saqib Javed | Upload Music

Meghame Meghame- Unplugged

2010-04-22T16:15:00.002+01:00

Thank you, Roshni Chandran, for reminding me of this beautiful song! :)

One of Vani Jayaram’s best , this song is an adaptation of a Jagjit Singh ghazhal. However, Vaniji has given it a totally diffreent flavour with her trademark sangathis and bhaavam.

I had recorded the same song some 1.5 years back but a very dear friend of mine was totally unhappy (and rightly so) with the way I had sung it due to various reasons- overstressing words, mispronunciation, lack of feel in the song etc. So I attempted it again tonight to see if I had really improved in those departments since then :D. It is such a pleasure to be singing an unplugged solo number after a very long time!

Movie: Paalaivana Cholai
Music: Shankar-Ganesh
Originally sung by: Vani Jayaram

Meghame Meghame- Unplugged | Upload Music

Senthoorapoove

2010-04-22T16:14:00.000+01:00

A while back, Ajay had requested me to sing this song using the karaoke track on www.ajaykumars.com.I started working on it a while back when a thought dawned upon me. Perhaps it was time I upgraded my mixing skills! :) About time I realised that, you say?!

Well, I had to start off on the right foot. Finding a patient teacher whom I could take the liberty of troubling was Task Number 1.
Victim: Balamurali Bala !

This man’s patience is just exemplary. He patiently listened to the dozen (appalling!!) versions I sent to him and commented on each one, gradually suggesting changes. Thus began my theory and practical lessons on Basic mixing! Thanks a lot for all that you have helped me with, Bala! The trouble doesn’t end here, if you were heaving a sigh of relief!

I also had to trouble Kitcha occasionally with some versions to get some more tips from him. Thanks a lot to you too, Kitcha!

And here we are with my very first experimentally mixed version! BTW, this version is nowhere near perfect, I know, but atleast it is the start of creating something pleasing to the ears, let’s say! :) So I am counting on you all for more tips and magic tricks.

The song needs no introduction! One of IR’s masterpieces in the golden voice of S.Janaki. I do remember reading somewhere how Bharathiraaja got this idea of using the unique name of a flower in the song- there is no flower as Senthoorapoo in reality!

Movie: Pathinaaru Vayathinile
Music Director: Ilayaraaja
Originally sung by: S.Janaki
Mixing: Adithi (Ahem!!!!)

Senthoorapoove | Music Codes

Abbani Theeyani Debba

2010-04-22T16:12:00.000+01:00

I was jumping with joy when Vishak told me that he had the track for this song. I remember how crazy I used to be of it when I was in school, chiefly because of Chiranjeevi! :) Ilayaraaja has so beautifully handled the Raagam Shivaranjani for this peppy number.

Vishak has done a fabulous job with this song- especially loved his laughs!

Once again, Kitcha came to our rescue with the mixing. Thanks a million for your patience and kindness, Kitcha! You are way too kind to refuse any requests we may have. :D

Movie: Jagadeka Veerudu Athiloka Sundari
Music: Ilayaraaja
Originally sung by: SPB, K.S.Chithra
Mixing: Kitcha

Abbani Theeyani (Telugu-IR)- with Vishak Subramoney | Musicians Available

Oh Priya Priya (Telugu)

2010-04-22T16:11:00.000+01:00

Kumaran and I are very happy to bring this lovely duet for you! Thank you Kumaran, for giving me the fantastic opportunity to render this song with you.

One of IR’s evergreen hits, this movie totally rocked when it was released. I still remember how much we used to talk about each and every scene and song sequence then at school! It had too many greats in it (IR, Manirathnam, Nagarjuna, PCSreeram) to be forgotten.

I have liked the Telugu version better (sung by SPB. Tamil version by Mano, but that is not the reason for my choice) and did put in a lot of effort in making the diction as perfect as possible to my ability. My sincere thanks to Bhumika, my dear friend, for helping me with the same.

Movie: Geethanjali
Music: Ilayaraaja
Originally sung by: SPB, K.S.Chithra
Mixing: M.Kumaran

Disclaimer: Kumaran is in the process of upgrading his gear and recording set up and has been hassled too much by a failing PC. Hence please bear with issues that may be evident with the recording quality or mixing. He has promised me that our next song will be a stunner mixingwise! ;)

Oh Priya Priya(Telugu- Ilayaraaja)- with M.Kumaran | Music Codes

Malligaiye Malligaiye

2010-04-22T16:09:00.000+01:00

It was Raj who, a couple of months ago, hunted down the track and sent it to both me and Roshinie. It was his kind request that we both must collaborate on this song. :)

I am a huge fan of Deva’s music (oh yes! It really is true!) and can’t stop wondering at some of the brilliant tunes he has composed based on nice raagas. His classic adaptation of Mohanam for his fast and peppy “Vellarikkaa” is still my favourite in that raagam! :)

This lovely song is a female duet (based on raagam Suddha Danyasi) and beautifully shows the playful banter between two young girls talking about their beloved. I was asked by a few people in Muziboo to do this song a while back, so here you go! It is here atlast! :)

The biggest job in this song was for Kitcha who had spent hours trying to correct a severe timing issue in the tracks. I will be surprised if he agreed to do any more mixing for me in the future! :P Not to mention the rigorous deadline he was working towards getting this song released (he tells me that he hasn’t been pressurised even by Project timelines at work so much!). I can’t thank you enough, Kitcha, for your kindness and patience! :)

Movie: Ninaithen Vanthaai
Music: Deva
Originally sung by: K.S.Chithra, Anuradha Sriram

Malligaiye Malligaiye- with Roshinie.M | Music Codes

Intha Minminikku

2010-03-11T14:12:00.000Z

I never get tired of this song. One of Raaja’s classics, I must say! I am a huge fan of Malaysia Vasudevan and this is one of his best duets.

Couldn’t think of a voice other than Sukumar’s to cover this song. Thanks Sugi, for kindly finishing this at the right time :)

Happy Birthday Vishnu :) Though this is not a birthday song, I hope you will like it, as you normally enjoy old IR goldies :)

Our sincere thanks to Bharathi Dinesh for the K-track! :)

Intha Minminikku- with Sukumar Rajendran

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Indha Maan

2010-03-11T14:08:00.000Z

Glad to be back with another old(ish) number! :)

Balaji being a huge fan of IR, suggested this lovely song for us to sing. The movie was released at the peak of IR’s career and every single song was a huge hit.

Balaji, it seems, was stuck the very first time while singing this song as he didn’t get the right feel. Then I suggested he watch the video on Youtube before singing….LOL…… It is upto you to decide if it was of any use!!!!! ;)

A very special thanks to Kitcha Srinivasan for mixing this song within such a short notice. Thanks a ton, Kitcha! :)

Indha Maan- with Balaji Seetharaman

Music Upload

Solai Poovil Maalai Thendral

2010-03-11T14:06:00.000Z

Its a pleasure to be singing again with Kitcha Srinivasan.
Used to love the beats in this song and the amazing interludes!

Solai Poovil- with Kitcha Srinivasan

Music Upload

Thumbi Vaa Concert Version - A Tribute to Ilayaraaja!

2010-02-24T15:21:00.002Z

Write-up by Balaji Seetharaman :
Happy Birthday Ramji KS from the fame of the “Making” of Kaatu Kuyilu: D and also my "Blood"y good friend.

This song has taken so many different forms right from the year 1982 till the year 2009 and has almost panned across multiple generations.
1) 1982 – Olangal - Thumbi Vaa
2) 1982 – Nireekshana - Aakasham enatidho
3) 1983 – Auto Raja - Sangathil Padatha Kavithai
4) 1988 – Kanne Kalaimaane - Neer Veezhchi thee mootuthe
5) 1995 – Aur Ek Prem Kahani – Monday Tho
6) 2009 – Paa - Gum Sum Gum

Each one of the above is special in its own form. There is one other form that really took a good solid crowd of many thousands in chennai and later millions on television on a great journey. IR performed this live on stage in a show called “Andrum Endrum Indrum” (Also in Live in Italy). This particular version made me crazy for a long long time and it still does. Such a mesmerizing version! (Check this out: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tV_IVtXcg4g)

First thing I had to do was to get hold of the track. After a patient search with no luck, decided to do this myself with my keyboard. The Live version had around 50 violinists, Arulmozhi(Flute), Sivamani on the drums and lot of other people :D. The initial aalaap was sung by none other than Hariharan! Never really knew upfront what I should do :D ! With Rewind <→ Play over and over again on my IPod, played every instrument individually and mixed them to get close to the original feel of the orchestration. It worked out quite well but then the usage of drum kits in the charanam did not help the flavour of the song, so got in touch with Tara and she immediately shared the Thumbi Vaa track with me. First thanks to her! I sampled out the charanam tabla from the Thumbi vaa track and merged it with my K-Track ! Sounded perfect from the orchestration point of view.

After completing the track, the initial plan was to sing this all by myself. Muziboo that time was pretty new to me and I enjoyed listening to some of the great singers here. “Adithi Akka” was my favourite (and still is) and I looked up to her for her sheer passion, perfection towards music. That was the time she did this Remembering Bharathi – I was just spellbound. Slowly got to know her personally and casually was discussing this project with her. She said she could do some portions of the song. I was just thrown off! Made me nervous :D Made me excited as well, never expected this! Then I picturised this version in a different way with Adithi on board. I finished my part and sent the files to her. She had different plans :D she just took the whole effort to great new heights. Her “Original” improvisations, Harmonies and Seconds added totally a different dimension to this already wonderful version (you will not find this part in the original concert version, hence this is an experiment, first of its kind from her). She just took over from there and then there were a lot of exchanges Back and Forth, before we were collectively happy on the final version. Thanks a lot Akka.

“Kathai la oru nalla climax koraiyuthe! Naanga ellam hero va padathoda kadasila than introduce pannuvom la!!! :D” With fireworks around, we invited our Muziboo’s very own Rajathi Raja Jr PBS Rajkumar Anjan to do the mixing for us. He really got involved and spent quality time trying to do this mix for us and we as a team think it has come out really well. Thanks Raj Anna.

Thanks Harish, Ramji for hearing this pre-release and for your suggestions.

Rest is for you to decide! Please leave in your honest thoughts! Thanks.

Sung by : Adithi and Balaji
Mixing : RajKumar Anjan
Harmonies/ Chorus arrangement: Adithi
Composition : Maestro Ilayaraaja

Thumbi Vaa Concert Version - A Tribute to Ilayaraaja! (Adithi, Balaji & Raj)

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Naan Kattil Maele KaNDen

2010-02-24T15:17:00.000Z

Place: Taramani Film City

Year: 1999 December

Event: Shooting for Raj TV’s Pongal episode of Tamil film music quiz

I was one of the participants and was doing reasonably well when breaktime was announced. Shrikala Bharath, the producer of the show, casually requested a song from the compere and asked me to sing with him. No rehearsals, we didn’t even check if we knew lyrics etc and we started singing “Sippi Irukkuthu”. There was pindrop silence in the auditorium till we finished when they burst out into a thundering applause! Such spellbinding performance by this brilliant singer/ MC! Later, I got introduced to him and his beautiful wife. The time that we spoke was short yet enough to know that this man had some high taste in music!

It was after nearly 10 years that I recollected all of the above when I met Sriram Srinivasan in Muziboo :) It is a small world indeed!

Sriram suggested this beautiful song from the 80s and I happily agreed. The opening tune reminds me of a Hindi song(which one-still slips my mind!). Although it is not our first duet together, it is the first in my space!

Movie: Neeyaa

Music: Shankar- Ganesh

Originally sung by: SPB, P.Susheela

Mixing: Sriram

Naan Kattil Maele- with Sriram Srinivasan

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Paarijaatha Poove

2010-02-16T13:36:00.000Z

This song is perhaps the one with longest WIP status in my Inbox. LOL

Shrinesh and I started working on this song back in Nov’08. There have been atleast half-a-dozen attempts from each side to complete it, resulting in utter failure due to track issues, technical glitches, flaws in singing and what not! Finally, we decided to beat it to death and end the long wait with some persistence!

Movie: En Raasaavin Manasula

Music: Ilayaraaja

Originally sung by: S.N.Surendar, K.S.Chithra

I love this song for 2 reasons. One is the very funny picturisation where a cute, bright girl is singing this duet with a silly but sincere young boy. IR has aptly used S.N.Surendar’s voice to bring out the innocent voice to suit the brash(but asadu) teenage lover on screen. Chithra sounds as sweet as ever!

The second reason is the unfailing tune. IR has used a similar tune in 3 different songs during just about the same time period and all were super hits. I would like to make a medley out of it someday if someone tried to finish the third song, as I have done the other one in the string! :) Do give it a try and you will know exactly what I am talking about :)

Naan sirithaal Deepaavali – Paarijaatha Poove – Oh Party nalla Party thaan(Idhayam)

Shrini and I have sung a couple of duets long ago and I am so happy to be singing with him again :) He has done a very nice job in this one as always and “underplayed” deliberately to suit the song sequence! He has also done the mixing.

Paarijaatha Poove- with S.Srinivasan

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Malarnthum Malaraatha

2010-02-09T17:05:00.001Z

This song sequence is perhaps the most loved of all pathos numbers from yesteryears’ Tamil cinema……

The absolutely amazing expressions by Sivaji and Savithri, the mindblowing lyrics, the unforgettable tune by MSV-TKR, the sweet woe-filled voices of TMS an Susheela made it the perfect mix to elevate the song to immortality.

Sukumar and I have tried our best to do justice to this song. Sugi has done a stupendous job again, in my opinion! He has the perfect voice for TMS songs which so easily handles those intricate brigaas.

Movie: Paasamalar
Music: M.S.Viswanathan- Ramamoorthy
Originally sung by- T.M.Soundararajan, P.Susheela
Mixing :Sukumar

Malarnthum Malaraatha- with Sukumar Rajendran

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Andhimazhai Pozhigirathu

2010-02-09T12:25:00.000Z

It will not be an exaggeration to say that in every singer’s lifetime, this duet is a must-do.

My earliest memories of music, movies, Kamal, Kavithai and love are so indistiguishable from one another….this song is a highlight to it all! :)

I decided to team up with Vishak for this one since it was in his wishlist too. Needless to say, we both thoroughly enjoyed singing this one. We hope you will like it too.

I want to dedicate this rendition to my friend Neeraja Neelakantan who fined me with this song for forgetting the day of her wedding! LOL!

Movie: RaajaPaarvai

Music: Ilayaraaja

Originally sung by: SPB, SJanaki

Mixing: Vishak Subramoney

AndhiMazhai- with Vishak Subramoney

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Celebrating ShankarabharaNam - Saa ri ga ri

2010-02-03T15:13:00.000Z

Write-up by Murali Venkatraman :
“It is one thing to have classical songs with swaras and another to have a song made of just the swaras without sounding too complicated. This is one of the rare songs in film industry which in spite of having only swaras as its lyrics, sounds very melodious to all and sundry. Ragam Bowli is a cousin of Revagupti which traditionally signifies the music at dawn. Here Adithi and I have tried to recreate the song that touched us deep some 30 years back. It was done almost 3-4 months back but saw the light only today”

Song : Sa Ri Ga Ri Ga(Bowli) – Sangeetha SikshaNa
Original by: S.Janaki, S. P. Balasubramaniyam
Music By : K. V. Mahadevan
Movie : shankaraBharaNam
Singers: Murali Venkatraman and Adithi Devarajan

Thanks once again, Meera, for the awesome mixing !!!!

This song has been beautifully picturised in the wee hours of dawn when the Sangeetha SikshaNa begins. The highlight is Manju Bhaargavi’s myriad of expressions throughout the song.

I am so glad and honoured to be a part of this team working together to bring back the magic of this 30 year old movie. Murali has been so patient in waiting for me to complete the song for the series. He is an awesome musician from whom I have learnt so much in the past many months of association :). A song with him at last……. :D

Celebrating ShankarabharaNam - 4- Saa ri ga ri

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Oru Naal Oru Pozhudhu

2010-02-03T15:00:00.001Z

I had no idea of singing this song until Unnikrishnan requested it of me. Infact this song is my birthday gift to him! :) Happy Birthday, Unni!

Unni kindly offered to do the mixing for me. In the process, he has tried something different in the form of introducing a tiny humming of his in the middle of the song. I loved it personally as I thought it accentuated the beauty and mood. I hope you will like it too! :)

Swarnalatha is one of the finest singers in the industry today. It is not an easy task to become the favourite of all 3 stalwarts of TFM- MSV, IR and ARR! :). It is quite a challenge to bring the feel and clarity of her songs into one’s renditions.

Ofcourse, my version is nowhere near the original but atleast I am happy that I did this one specially for Unni! :) Glad you loved it, kutta! :) Thanks Sudhathee, for the track. I still think that you have sung this song much better than me, di! :D

Movie: Andhimandhaarai

Music: AR Rahman

Lyrics: Vairamuthu

Mixing: Unnikrishnan KB

Oru Naal Oru Pozhudhu | Music Upload

Thaalaattu

2010-01-21T16:17:00.000Z

This song has been in my wishlist for almost a year. Very recently, Uthra Parakalan reminded me of the lullaby collection of late Dr.MLV and requested songs from the same. This is the first song that appears in the album. Thanks Uthra! :)

Set in Raagam NeelAmbari (the traditional raaga for lullabies), the folk song praises the child as God’s gift and describes the child’s beauty.

While my little son is currently having a great time in India with his grandparents, I am greatly reminded of him and thought of this moment as the most apt one to sing the song :)

Another special occasion is Sukumar’s birthday (Jan 21st). Being a great lover of Tamizh language and culture, I am sure this song will touch his heart because of the rustic lyrics and simple tune. I would like to dedicate this song to him today and wish him many more years of happiness to come! HAPPY BIRTHDAY SUGI! :) I am sure this will be very different from the kuthu numbers you may be getting as a present for your special day! :)

A Folk Lullaby(Tamil)- Unplugged

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Aathangara Marame

2010-01-20T11:27:00.000Z

It feels good to be back after a long time with an ARR number, that too a nice rustic one! :)
Happy to sing this song with Kitcha Srinivasan, another Muziboo enthusiast and fellow Rahmaniac!

Movie : Kizakku Cheemayilae
Music : A.R.Rahman
Original Singers : Mano & Sujatha
Mixing : Kitcha

Aathangara Maramae - with Adithi Devarajan

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Naan Sirithaal DeepaavaLi

2010-01-20T11:19:00.000Z

I was in Cloud Nine when Raj asked me if I would be interested in singing this song with Meera. Not just because it is a fabulous song to cover but also because of the sheer pleasure of working with Meera!

Meera Manohar is one of the prominent names in the audioblog world, renowned for her beautiful singing. She is not just a versatile singer but also a brilliant sound engineer. After working with her on this song, I came to know what a bubbly person she is with a keen sense of humour! Very nice knowing you, Meera! :)

Movie: Naayagan
Original music by: Ilayaraaja
Cover version by: Adithi Devarajan & Meera Manohar
Mixed by: Meera Manohar

Naan Sirithaal (cover version)- female duet with Adithi Devarajan

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Thiruppavai- Day30- VangakkaDal Kadaindha

2010-01-14T11:06:00.000Z

Raagam: Surutti

For lyrics and meaning of this Paasuram, please click here.

I was very doubtful of my own capabilities and perseverence when I started this Thiruppavai series in my blog. And here we are at the very last Paasuram marking the end of Maarghazhi! It does fill me with a sense of achievement that I have never felt before.

I can still remember the days when my grandparents were in Thanjavoor and I used to visit them for holidays. Paatti used to teach music to a group of girls. Perhaps that is when I heard her sing Thiruppavai for the first time. Oh how I long to go back to those days! If only we could rewind time!!!!

All these days, many of you have been visiting my pages almost everyday inspite of your very busy schedule and leaving kind comments! I thank you one and all for the continued support and encouragement. You fuelled me up to do better and complete the series! :). A very special thanks to Balamurali Bala without whom I couldn't have used my new recording setup.

I hope I made myself useful in some small way this Maarghazhi! :)

கோதை பிறந்த ஊர் கோவிந்தன் வாழுமூர்

சோதி மணிமாடம் தோன்றுமூர்

நீதியால் நல்லபந்தர் வாழுமூர் நான்மறைகள் ஓதுமூர்

வில்லிப்புத்தூர் வேதக்கோனூர்

பாதகங்கள் தீர்க்கும் பரமனடி காட்டும்

வேதமனைத்துக்கும் வித்தாகும் கோதைதமிழ்

ஐயைந்தும் ஐந்தும் அறியாத மானிடரை

வையம் சுமப்பது வம்பு

திருவாடிப்பூரத்து செகத்துதித்தாள் வாழியே !

திருப்பாவை முப்பதும் செப்பினாள் வாழியே !

பெரியாழ்வார் பெற்றெடுத்த பெண்பிள்ளை !

பெரும்புதூர் மாமுனிக்குப்பின்னானாள் வாழியே !

ஒருநூற்று நாற்பத்து மூன்றுறைத்தாள் வாழியே !

உயரரங்கற்கே கண்ணியுகந்தளித்தாள் வாழியே !

மருவாரும் திருமல்லி வளநாடி வாழியே !

வண்புதுவை நகர்க்கோதை மலர்ப்பாதங்கள் வாழியே !!!

Thiruppavai 30 | Upload Music

Thiruppavai- Day29- Sittranjiru Kaale

2010-01-12T23:39:00.000Z

Raagam: MaNirangu

Can't believe that I am almost there... :)

This penultimate number is a beauty! "For seven births, we are bound to You and here to serve You, Oh Lord! Rid us of our desires and save us, Oh Krishna", cries ANDaaL.

For lyrics and meaning, please click here.

Thiruppavai 29 | Music Upload

Thiruppavai- Day28- KaravaigaL PinsenDru

2010-01-11T23:57:00.000Z

Raagam: KAmbhoji

For lyrics and meaning, please click here.

Thiruppavai 28 | Music Upload

Thiruppavai- Day27- KooDaarai vellum seerGOvindhaa

2010-01-10T23:56:00.001Z

Raagam: PoorvIkalyANi

"KooDaaravalli" reminds me of the yummy "Sakkarai pongal" (rathar Akkarai Adisal) that Paatti used to make! She used to follow ANDAL's recipe scrupulously to ensure that the "MuDa nei peidu muzhangai vazhivaara" instruction was fulfilled! :). This is the day that ANDAL became one with the Lord, it is said.

For lyrics and meaning, please click here.

Thiruppavai 27 | Upload Music

Thiruppavai- Day26- Maale MaNivaNNA

2010-01-10T14:45:00.000Z

Raagam: KunthalavarALi

For lyrics and meaning of this Paasuram, please click here.

Thiruppavai 26 | Music Upload

Thiruppavai- Day25- Orutthi maganaai Pirandhu

2010-01-09T00:25:00.000Z

Raagam: BehAg

Another personal favourite! Missing my grandad so much today...he used to love BehAg... :)

This song beautifully portrays how Devaki and Yasodha have both been lucky in being mothers to the Lord Himself, who slayed the cruel Kamsa and rid the world of his atrocities.

For lyrics and meaning of this Paasuram, please click here.

Thiruppavai 25 | Upload Music

Thiruppavai Day24- AnDru ivvulagam aLandhaai

2010-01-08T10:32:00.000Z

Raagam: Sindhu Bhairavi

This is perhaps my most favourite Thiruppavai of all...perhaps because of the raagam! :)
It is a beautiful one that describes the different avatars of Mahavishnu and goes on to describe the Leelas of Sri Krishna!

For lyrics and meaning, please click here.

Thiruppavai 24 | Music Upload

Thiruppavai- Day23- Maarimalai Muzhainjil

2010-01-07T00:25:00.000Z

Raagam: Bilahari

For lyrics and meaning of this Paasuram, please click here.

Thiruppavai 23 | Upload Music

Thiruppavai- Day22- AnGaN Maa Gnyaalatthu arasar

2010-01-05T21:46:00.000Z

Raagam: Yaman KalyANi

When my son was barely a month old, this is the only song that would make him sleep. Being one of my most favourite raagaas, I thoroughly enjoy singing it! :)

In this song, ANDaaL describes the beauty of Krishna's eyes opening. She compares the Lord's eyes to blooming lotuses as bright as the Sun and Moon and asks him to shower his radiant blessings on us.

For lyrics and meaning of this Paasuram, click here.

Thiruppavai 22 | Upload Music

Thiruppavai- Day21- Yaettra kalangaL

2010-01-05T21:37:00.000Z

Raagam: Naada Naama Kriya

This used to be one of granddad's favourite raagas. He has composed numerous bhajans and songs in this raagam which some day I hope to sing.

For lyrics and meaning of this Paasuram, click here.

Thiruppavai 21 | Music Upload

Thiruppavai- Day 20- Muppatthu Moovar

2010-01-03T23:21:00.000Z

Raagam: Senchurutti

ANDaal awakens the Lord and His consort in this heartwarming Paasuram. She asks Nappinnai to wake up the Lord with a bedecked Fan and bejewelled mirror in hand!

For lyrics and meaning of this Paasuram, click here.

Thiruppavai 20 | Music Upload

Thiruppavai- Day 19- Kutthu ViLakkeriya

2010-01-03T00:44:00.000Z

Raagam: SahAnA

AaNDaaL beautifully describes why Nappinnai, the consort of Krishna, delays opening the doors. It is because she is so comfortable in the ivory-footed bed enjoying the company of the Lord that she cannot endure even a moment's separation!!!

For lyrics and meaning, click here.

Thiruppavai 19 | Music Upload

Thiruppavai- Day 18- Undhu MadhakaLittran

2010-01-02T01:44:00.000Z

Raagam: SAveri

For lyrics and meaning of this Paasuram, click here.

Thiruppavai 18 | Upload Music

Thiruppavai Day17- Ambarame ThaNNeere

2010-01-01T21:44:00.000Z

Raagam: KalyaaNi

HAPPY NEW YEAR TO ALL!

Although I am technically uploading this Paasuram on the 17th Day of Maarghazhi, it is perhaps too late into the night in most places in the world. I was waiting and hoping for my throat to get slightly better and that has delayed this post. Very rough singing, I know. But didn't want to break the routine and hence sang as much as I could manage...

In this Paasuram, AaNDaal wakes up Krishna's parents, NandagOpan and Yashoda, and his brother, Balaraama...

For lyrics and meaning of this Paasuram, visit this site.

Thiruppavai 17 | Online recorder

Thiruppavai- Day 16- Naayaganaai ninDra

2009-12-30T23:32:00.000Z

Raagam: MOhanam

This is it...the worst my throat has been so far this year. Hope it gets better from now on...
You may hear too many crackling noises...it's only my struggling voice! :(

For lyrics and meaning of this Paasuram, go to this link.

Thiruppavai 16 | Music Upload

Thiruppavai- Day 15- Elle iLangiLiye

2009-12-30T00:49:00.000Z

Raagam: BegaDa

This Paasuram is a funny one depicting a petty quarrel amongst the girls. For lyrics and meaning, go to this link.

Thiruppavai 15 | Music Upload

Thiruppavai- Day 14- UngaL Puzhakkadai Thottatthu

2009-12-29T00:08:00.000Z

Raagam: Anandha Bhairavi

With my throat getting worse than last week, I decided to bite the bullet and reduce the scale for this rendition :(

AnDaal sings of the blooming of the Lotus and unblooming of the Lily in the backyard when the Sun rises. She then tells of how the monks are off to the temple for their morning prayers. Thus saying she wakes up her sleepy mates to sing the glory of the Lord.

For lyrics and meaning of this Paasuram, please go to this link.

Thiruppavai 14 | Upload Music

Thiruppavai- Day 13- PuLLinvaay KeeNDaanai

2009-12-28T00:05:00.000Z

Raagam: aTANA

"Oh doe-eyed damsel! Won't you wake up to hear the stories of our Lord Krishna who slayed many demons? Take a cold dip and get started for it is the dawn of a new day", sings AanDaaL.

For lyrics and meaning, visit this website.

Thiruppavai 13 | Music Upload

Thiruppavai- Day 12- KanaitthiLam kattrerumai

2009-12-27T00:17:00.000Z

Raagam: Kedaara GowLai

The wealth of people in those days was probably measured by the size and quality of livestock they owned! This is another verse where Aandaal mentions cattle, here the buffaloes owned by a wealthy neighbour and how the leftover milk from their udder was so plentiful that it created a mire.

It is interesting to note that in this Paasuram, Aandaal reminisces the previous birth of Krishna- Sri Raamaa.

For lyrics and meaning of this Paasuram, go to this link.

Thiruppavai 12 | Upload Music

Thiruppavai- Day 11- Kattru karavai kaNangaL

2009-12-26T00:24:00.002Z

Raagam: Huseini

Another tricky raagam...not even sure how I did since I dont know any keerthanai in this raagam to compare with. :( Your comments will be much appreciated :)

For lyrics and meaning of this Paasuram, use this link.

Thiruppavai 11 | Online recorder

Thiruppavai- Day 10- NOttru Suwargam

2009-12-25T00:45:00.002Z

Raagam: Thodi

AnDaal makes fun of the girl that is still sleeping and jests of her winning Kumbakarna in a sleeping contest!

I was dreading this Paasauram! Thodi is perhaps the most difficult raagam for me to imbibe! I remember how Paatti tried teaching me "VaNDinamuralum Solai" and gave up! Your comments on this song would be most appreciated to see if I did sing it right afterall.

For lyrics and meaning of this Paasuram, use this link.

Thiruppavai 10 | Upload Music

Thiruppavai- Day 9-ThoomaNi maaDatthu

2009-12-23T23:58:00.002Z

Raagam: Hamir Kalyani

As if she is fed up of calling out to her friends, AnDaal now seeks the help of their mothers. "Maami! Your daughter sleeps like she was under some spell. Or she must be deaf that she can't hear my beckoning!".

A note about the usage of this Raagam. This is one of the very few Carnatic songs I have heard in Hamir Kalyani which is basically a Hindustani Raagam. If I am wrong, please shout!

For lyrics and meaning of this Paasuram, check out this link

Thiruppavai 9 | Upload Music

Thiruppavai- Day 8- Keezhvaanam VeLLenDru

2009-12-22T23:25:00.003Z

Raagam: Dhanyaasi

Yet another beautiful morning scene is depicted in this verse. The east is lit up by the rising Sun. Buffalos are grazing before they can be milked. Flocks of birds have started flying from their nests in search of food. "But we must wait for you, oh Damsel", says AnDaal to one sleeping 'thozhi', "before we can visit the Lord of Lords, our Krishna, one who killed many demons and redeemed us from evil"

For lyrics and meaning of this Paasuram, use this link.

Thiruppavai 8 | Music Upload

Thiruppavai- Day 7- Keesu KeesenDrengum

2009-12-21T23:11:00.003Z

Raagam: Bhairavi

The chirping of birds in the morning air is joined by the clanking of necklaces worn by the "Aaichiyar" during them churning curds. "Is all this noise not enough to wake you up, lazybones", says AnDaal, "to sing praises of our Lord?"

For lyrics and meaning of this Paasuram, use this link.

Thiruppavai 7 | Music Upload

Thiruppavai- Day 6- PuLLum Silambina kaaNN

2009-12-20T23:40:00.002Z

Raagam: ShankarAbharanam

This is one of my personal favourites as I love this raagam! But what I feared so much has come true indeed! Due to last night's party at a friends and the excessive talking, my throat has gone very sore! So I have tried my best to make this rendition a pleasant one by not straining too much! Please forgive the "karakarappu"...

In this Paasuram, AnDaal awakens the Gopikas by talking about the "leelas" of Krishna , his slaying the demons Poothana and Chakatasura. She beckons them to rise to the harbinger from His White Conch.

Thiruppavai 6 | Music Upload

Thiruppavai- Day 5- Maayanai

2009-12-20T02:31:00.001Z

Raagam: Sriraagam

Go to this link for lyrics and meaning of this Paasuram

Thiruppavai 5 | Upload Music

Thiruppavai- Day 4- Aazhimazhai kaNNaa

2009-12-19T07:49:00.004Z

Raagam: VaraaLi

I would like to thank Balamurali Balu for mixing this song for me! :)

Go to this link for lyrics and meaning of this Paasuram.

Thiruppavai 4 | Upload Music

Thiruppavai- Day 3- Ongi ulagaLantha

2009-12-18T00:08:00.003Z

Raagam: Aarabi

Click here to view lyrics and meaning of this Paasuram

Thiruppavai 3 | Online recorder

Naan Paarthathile

2009-12-17T13:47:00.003Z

My long cherished desire to sing an old TMS-PS duet came true.

I am so happy to sing this song with Sukumar. When I heard him sing "Naan aanayittaal", I could think of a hundred TMS-PS duets to sing with him but could only find the track for this one. His singing prowess amazes me- the way he handles those intricate brigaas and emotes for every single word. Particularly like the way he has sung "Idayo illai irundaal" in this song!

Movie: Anbe Vaa

Music: Mellisai Mannar MSV

Originally sung by: T.M.Soundararajan, P.Susheela

naan paarthathile with Adithi Devarajan Online recorder

Thiruppavai- Day2- Vayyatthu VaazhveergaaL

2009-12-16T23:44:00.005Z

Raagam: GowLai

Go here to get the lyrics and meaning of each Paasuram.

Thiruppavai 2 | Music Upload

Thiruppavai- Day 1- Maargazhi thingaL

2009-12-16T00:29:00.003Z

Raagam: Naattai

This is a very nice website showing the lyrics and meaning of each Paasuram.

Thiruppavai 1 | Upload Music

Thiruppavai Series- Preamble

2009-12-16T00:00:00.003Z

Marghazhi is my favourite Tamizh month! Where I grew up, winter wasn't as bitter as where I live now but compared with places like Chennai and other unfortunate cities, Hosur is a very cool town.

I still remember those foggy mornings when I would pay a hurried visit to my grandma's place near our house before scurrying off to school. I would enter shouting,"Paatti innikku enna(Thiruppavai)?". My grandma, also my Guru in music, would be very busy with some household chore but would stop for a second and say, "Thodi" or "Kalyani". She remembered the day's Thiruppavai by the Ragam rather than by the words. One of her Gods in this birth was MLV whom she wanted to do a concert with before breathing her last. She had listened to almost every single keerthanai of MLV's and learnt them all with nonchalant ease. It was from her that I had listened to all the 30 verses for the very first time in my life.

Ever since, Maarghazhi Maasa Thiruppavai has become a ritual to me. Although I have never woken up as early as is instructed in the songs themselves, I would see to it that the day's Thiruppavai was sung at some point during the day. Only recently, I happened to buy the original CD of MLV's rendition and started learning it more religiously.

This year, I have been at the height of musical activity and am now motivated to start this series. Each day, I hope to sing and post the relevant Thiruppavai, giving a brief information on the Ragam and lyrics where possible.

It is a daunting task as I look at it suddenly. What if I had to go out of station suddenty or what if I caught a cold....! But I am going to try my best and complete it to the best of my singing ability and ensure to post everyday.

This is the best I can do to get people interested in the forgotten treasures of Tamil literature or think of the Lord for a brief couple of minutes everyday or revel in the abundant nectar of Classical music. To me it a special combination of all of the above tied with the silken thread of fond memories from childhood of my beloved Paatti!!!

Sandhana Kaatre

2009-12-15T23:54:00.005Z

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, RAJINI! :)

Although I am a hardcore Kamal fan, I felt like doing a Rajini song for his birthday. I am huge fan of his style, humility and commitment to quality. Some movies like “Aarilirundu Aruvadu varai”, “Engeyo kaetta kural” are perhaps the best of the lot to show what a fantastic actor he is. For a brief period in my life, I used to watch Rajini movies like crazy!!!!

Sukumar and I picked a different song for the occasion but in the last minute, it didn’t materialise due to an irreparably poor track. This song has always been in my list and ended up getting finished in less than 24 hours, with the huge World time difference constraint.Thanks Suku, for working under high pressure to deliver this song :D. The initial version had a technical flaw which only Vishnu could correct. This version has been beautifully mixed by Vishnu! Thanks a lot, Vicchu!

The track isn’t great. But wanted to do this song so desparately……

Movie: Thani Kaattu Raaja

Music: IR(Who else!!!)
Originally sung by: SPB, S.Janaki

Sandhana Kaatre- With Sukumar(Reuploaded) | Music Upload

Remembering the Mahaakavi- Chinnanchiru Kiliye

2009-12-11T13:13:00.001Z

December 11th marks the birth of Subramania Bharathi. I wanted to sing a song to commemorate the birth of this amazing man who took the entire Tamizh state by storm.

Born in a conservative Tamil Brahmin family in Tirunelveli in 1882, this man believed in freedom of the human kind! Freedom to live a life free from fears and inhibitions. He was probably born a hundred years too early. Such were his revolutionary and radical thoughts on subjects ranging from Romance to Patriotism.

I cannot think of one modern Tamizh poet or activist who does not admire or is influenced by the works of Bharathi. After seeing this post, even if a handful of you start looking for more info on Bharathi, I will consider it a success! :)

This song is from his famous “KaNNan PaadalgaL” which is a compilation of various songs and poems written, imagining Lord Krishna in various forms- as a lover, teacher, mother, son, daughter….the list goes on. The song is about Kannan as a little daughter….

With the month of Maargazhi approaching fast, my mind starts getting tuned to the exciting early mornings that begin with Thiruppaavai recitals in praise of Krishna. I consider this song a good preamble to the same! :)

The music for this song (Movie:MaNamagaL released in 1951)was originally scored by C.R.Subbaraman whom MSV was an assitant to. He has said in an interview how he enjoyed(and at the same time, feared in respect)teaching the tune to M.L.Vasanthakumari. My rendition is nowhere near hers but it is a sincere attempt to remind myself of the greatness of people like her whom I have had the good fortune of knowing about from my own grandparents.

My throat has suddenly dried up perhaps due to the onset of harsh winter but I have done my best to do justice to this song.

Remembering Bharathi... | Music Upload

En Kanmani

2009-12-11T13:05:00.005Z

It is a pleasure to bring to you another duet with Kumaran

His is probably one of the most expressive voices in the blogworld. Apart from being a perfectionist and a diligent singer, he is a fantastic human being! I have learnt so many things from him since our very first duet more than a year ago.

Movie: Chittukuruvi

Composer: Ilayaraja

Lyricist: Vaali

Singers: SPB, P Susheela.

En Kanmani - Chittukuruvi Cover - with Adithi Upload Music

Ambalapuzhe

2009-12-08T13:54:00.003Z

Another Malayalam song and a very nice duet too....

Kumar Srinivasan suggested this song long ago but I didn't get the time to do it. During my exam prep, I badly needed to relax after the long hours of study so I sat down and did loads of songs in the nights. This is one such song.

It was Kumar's idea to do the sloka before the song as it appears in the song sequence. I particularly liked the humming before Charanam 1!

Movie: Adwaitham

Music: M.G.Radhakrishnan

Originally sung by: M.G.Shreekumar and K.S.Chithra

Ambalapuzhe - Adwaitham Music Upload

Oooh Lalala

2009-12-08T13:35:00.002Z

Vishnu suggested this song and we got Raj to join us too. One of my favorite movies from college days. One of those movies which I knew the dialogues of by heart!!!

Both my "thambi"s, Vishnu and Raj, have "kalakku"fied in this song in my opinion! :)

Movie: Minsara Kanavu

Music: A.R.Rahman

Originally sung by: Unni Menon, K.S.Chithra, Srinivas

Ooh lalala..... with ADithi Akka & Raj anna Online recorder

A bold venture...

2009-12-08T13:27:00.004Z

My good friend Sukumar and I were discussing about how boring we were starting to feel, doing the usual type of songs-devotional, moody, romantic, pathos….

So here’s a bold attempt for a change….

My mom is probably going to disown me for singing a song like this.:D I can hear her say," Oru kudumba ponnu paadura paattaa idu!!!"….LOL!

This is one song I have been so crazy about for years. When we searched, all that we could get was the track for the newer remix version. So we decided to do a remix of the remix- singing the old song and tune in that style with some inclusions from the newer one.

Just as Sukumar says, “Summaa jollyaa kaelunga!”….

Movie: Nallavanukku Nallavan

Music: Ilayaraaja

Originally sung by : K.J.Yesudas, S.Janaki

Mixing: Sukumar Rajendran

Pi.Ku: Sukumar asked me to add that this song was sung and mixed by him in the Netherlands (Unga alambal thaangalai Sir! :D)

A bold venture(Tamil)- with Sukumar Rajendran Upload Music

Vaa Vaa Anbe Anbe

2009-12-03T22:20:00.002Z

Recorded in November 2008 with Kumar Srinivasan.

Movie: Agni Nakshatram

Music: Ilayaraaja

Originally sung by: KJYesuda, K.S.Chithra

Vaa Vaa Anbe Anbe | Music Upload

Jilibili Palukula(Telugu)

2009-12-03T22:12:00.005Z

My Telugu friends have been asking me for a long time to do a Telugu number. So this one is for them! :D

I want to thank Sriram Srinivasan for making me record this song! :)

When Vishak Subramoney expressed his wish to do this song with me, I wasn’t sure if I wanted to do it since I had already done the Tamil version. But I loved the different flavour the Telugu version imparts- very different mood, situation and voices too.

Thanks, Vishnu , for mixing this song for us! Vishak- You were awesome in this song and it was a pleasure doing this song with you!

Movie: Sitara

Originally sung by: SPB and S.Janaki

Music: Ilayaraaja

Jilibili Palukula(Telugu)- With Vishak Subramoney | Upload Music

Indiraiyo ivaL Sundariyo

2009-12-03T22:07:00.003Z

I remember how as young girls, my sister Sudhathee and I were mad of all songs from Kaadhalan. I am so reminded of those long nights when we used to sit in the balcony, singing all songs on by one. We hadn't even bothered to be considerate of our poor neighbours then :(

After a long hiatus, Sudhathee is probably back in action in music with this number. When we made the track, it was kind of bland with no chords to support. That is when I sought the help of our Chords King, Subbu aka Subramanian.K . Without any hesitation, he agreed to help us. And I think his chords are the highlight of this song! :)

As usual, Vishnu has helped us with the mixing. A big thanks to you again, brother, for your selfless work! :)

Before you read this post, the song may have finished! :) Hope you enjoyed it!

Movie: Kaadhalan

Music: A.R.Rahman

Originally sung by: Sunandha, Minmini

Indiraiyo- With Sudhathee and Subbu | Online recorder

Edhedho Ennam Valarthen

2009-12-03T22:02:00.003Z

I had sung this song for Kamal’s birthday but didn’t post it as the mixing hadn’t been done then.

One of IR’s masterpieces made immortal by the beautiful feel, lyrics and Chithra’s effortless sangathis. This is probably one of the most special songs to me.

Though I normally try and stick to the original, I added a few extra sangathis in this one as I heard in one of Chithra’s stage shows a few years ago.

As usual, Vishnu has helped me with the mixing. Thanks a lot, Vicchu! :)

Movie: Punnagai Mannan

Originally sung by: K.S.Chithra

Music: Ilayaraaja

Edhedho Ennam Valarthen | Online recorder

Yaaradhu Sollaamal NenjaLLi Povadhu

2009-12-03T21:56:00.003Z

Another old post of mine...

Recorded in November 2008

Movie: Nenjamellaam Neeye

Music: Shankar -Ganesh

Originally sung by: Vani Jayaram

Yaaradhu Sollaamal NenjaLLi Povadhu | Online recorder

TheeNDaai

2009-11-20T10:58:00.000Z

I have been suffering from a severe attack of flu(not the swine one) for the past few days that I have not been able to record anything recently (much to the joy of the neighbours!!!).

I had sung this song back in June and was waiting for Vivek to complete his part and send. Vivek, who is back after a long hiatus(hopefully this time), kindly completed it after getting permission from his fiancee! How nice of her! :)

I am so glad to be back with an ARR number! :) One of those “classic” undeserving movies where the music was a total misfit! I remember sleeping through most part of it and getting up during the song sequences!

A special thanks to Vishnu for adding the special effects to the voices!

Movie: En Swaasa Kaatre

Music: A.R.Rahman

Originally sung by: SPB, K.S.Chithra

TheeNdaai- With Vivek Mahadevan Upload Music

Aattirambile Kombile

2009-11-20T10:51:00.003Z

Another beautiful song by Ilayaraaja... I chose to do the Malayalam version with Vishnu.

Film: Kaalaa Paani

Originally sung by: M.G.Sreekumar, K.S.Chithra

Mixing: Vishnu

Aattirambile kombile with adithi akkaaaaa ;-) | Online recorder

Ei Madhurati Jaeno Na Phuraay

2009-11-10T22:58:00.008Z

Exactly a year ago, Murali Venkatraman introduced me to the amazing works of Haimanti Shukla. Instantly, I fell in love with her voice! It was not just the free flow of subtle nuances (you could find atleast a few intricate ones in each line!) but also the mood she so vividly captured in all her renditions that even a non-Bengali could relate to that made me listen to her songs again and again.

This particular song was my favourite from the bunch and I had promptly learnt it within a day of listening to it. The sangathis used to drive me crazy but I thought I managed to capture atleast a semblance of the inimitable original.

But then I waited and waited...till today, to sing and post this song! I was trying to get the lyrics sorted first with my very good friend, Sumit Da, who has helped me before with numerous such Bangla lyrics. I was trying to work with Shampak Chakrovarty, a very talented musician whom I met in Muziboo, to correct me on the diction and delivery of harkats. All this within a few hours today. Even as I was trying to do the mixing, I got this text from Sumit Da to correct just one word which we were unsure of! So this song is literally fresh from the Editor's desk! Of course in spite of all that hardwork, I would still have made mistakes. Please do bear with the same graciously:)

Shampak and Sumit Da- Thanks a million for putting up with my immense pressure to get this done TONIGHT! I owe you both a pint someday!!!

No gimmicks, no k-track, just unplugged- sincere and for the love of Haimanti's divine voice!

And , oh yes, Happy Birthday, Murali! :)

P.s: If you are not able to play the song, please download the same to play. Apologies for the inconvenience caused but still working on this problem. Ei Madhurati | Upload Music

Oru Kili Uruguthu

2009-11-10T13:19:00.008Z

This is my most favourite female duet from all of Ilayaraaja’s. Until last week, it was the track I hunted for the most too.

After listening to “Endan kannil” from Sowmya, I approached her to see if she would be willing to sing with me if we got a track. She readily accepted. Thanks a lot, Sowmya! :)

This post would not have been possible if Raj had not found the track for us. Again, Vishnu came to our rescue by doing a fabulous job with the mixing. Thanks a million, dear Thambis!

Movie : Ananda Kummi

Music : Ilayaraaja

Originally sung by: S.Janaki and SP.Shailaja

Mixing : Vishnu Mohan

Oru Kili Uruguthu- with Sowmya.R Upload Music

Idhazhil Kadhai Ezhudum

2009-11-02T22:50:00.004Z

This song is sure to appear in the top songs list in any IR fan’s diary. Until this song in Tamil cinema, many of us may not even have heard of a raga called LALITHA. Sheer revelry in the silken voice of SPB and Chithra!

When I asked Rajkumar Anjan if he will sing this song with me, he hesitated. First reason- That he wasn’t trained in classical music. If you listen to this song you won’t believe that to be the case: the sangathis flow so naturally in his voice! Second reason-That he did not have a good gear. But I honestly believed that his awesome expressions are going to make up for the technical shortcomings. Hence I had to coax him to do this duet :)

A very special thanks to Vishnu for doing the mixing for us. He spent so much time on it that he had to pull back on his own schedule. Such a selfless soul! :)

Hope you enjoy listening to our humble attempt. Please leave your comments and as always, thanks for listening! :)

Movie : Unnal mudiyum Thambi

Music : Ilayaraaja

Originally sung by: SPB, K.S.Chithra

Lyrics: Gangai Amaran

Idhazhil Kadhai Ezhudum- with Rajkumar Anjan | Online recorder

Orey Manam

2009-11-02T22:42:00.004Z

Some of the best duets in the past decade have come from Vidya Sagar.

The soft classical touch in all his songs remind me so much of MSV’s compositions He is probably the best in choosing the right singer for the song too :)

I picked this particular song after listening to Vishnu on his blog (http://vishnusinger.blogspot.com/) and decided to give it a try! Hope you enjoy this Durbari Kanada beauty!

Movie: Villian

Originally sung by: Chandana Bala, Hariharan

Cover version: Vishnu Mohan and me

Chorus: Me and myself

Mixing: Vishnu

Orey Manam- With Vishnu Mohan | Online recorder

He Ghanashyaama - KizhakkuNarum Pakshi

2009-10-07T19:35:00.001+01:00

I thought I will try out a Malayalam cover this time (taking a short break from unplugged versions LOL).

I simply love this Charukesi classic! It so happens to be another magic combo of K.S.Chithra- Raveendran Maash like the last one I sang (Arivin Nilaave) in a movie of my fav Lalettan ;)

This song perhaps took the most time to do because everytime I sang Krishna, I was choked with tears and could not proceed further. Also not to mention how I was constantly bugged by the gross injustice God (or what some call Nature) did by bestowing all His grace to Chithraji and leaving me with this gross deficiency in my voice.

If you have heard the original, you would also have wondered how she emotes differently each time she sings “Krishna”. Soulful music!

I want to thank my friend Abhilash Edathil for taking the pains to correct my Malayalam diction. LOL, Abhi, on how you were trying to explain “nhi” to me! :)

I feel I have given this my best shot! Please let me have your comments. And, as always, thanks for listening! :)

Movie : KizhakkuNarum Pakshi Music : Raveendran Originally sung by : K.S.Chithra Lyrics : K. Jayakumar

He Ghanashyaama - KizhakkuNarum Pakshi | Upload Music

Ezhu SwarangaLukkuL

2009-08-31T23:15:00.002+01:00

When I started a blog, I promised myself that I will post atleast 1 song every week- a promise that I clearly broke. It has been almost a year since I recorded anything productive and worth publishing/ posting. Several interesting (some not so enjoyable) things have happened in the meanwhile and so music took a backstage. Now I am beginning to turn to Music as the only respite from the pressures of everyday life.

I wanted to make my comeback with an MSV number and had been thinking of this one for a special reason. It has been 10 years to this month that I won Sapthaswarangal. I still remember how I was standing in front of the great Vani Jayaram, shaking head to toe, trying to force some pleasing sound out of my mouth. Recently, I was watching a programme on the internet where she was judging and I was in tears when I heard her sing this song. Her utter dedication to music is evident in the clarity and perfection with which she renders any song for that matter. “EzhuswarangaLukkuL”, in my family’s language, is an “Asura paattu” due to the degree of complexity and difficulty. I sometimes feel that while giving songs to Vani, MSV must have made each song more difficult than the previous one to extract the best out of her. I have summoned a lot of courage (and audacity) to attempt an unplugged version of the song. I hope I will not be arrested for this crime!

Ten years have passed since I have known Subhashree Ma’am. If the meeting hadn’t happened, the manifestation of the musical me may probably never have dawned. I may never have endeavoured to lift up the mic and do some serious singing. I may never have believed that I could do it.

Today, I want to dedicate this song to Subhashree Thanikachalam to celebrate her 15 years in Onscreen Production and Direction. I may not have accomplished a great deal as a singer to make her really proud of me. But this much, I think I definitely owe her.

Movie: Apoorva RaagangaL

Music: MSV

Originally sung by : Vani Jayaram

Ezhu SwarangaLukkuL | Online recorder

Arivin Nilaave

2008-11-12T22:46:00.004Z

The past few weeks have been quite hectic, both at work and home. Though I would love to have a long musical session in front of the microphone, I must wait till I see a few important things done and dusted. Right now, my mind is swimming in a sea of numbers as I try to master concepts in Finance and arm myself to face impending exams in Dec. This song was recorded long ago and only now did I summon the courage to post it for you.

Who doesn't enjoy challenges in life! We win some, We lose some. But isn't the excitement of facing them that fuels us up and keeps us from rotting in boredom!

When I was churning out one karaoke song after another (didn’t even relish doing some of those run-of-the-mill songs!), it was my friend Murali who made me listen to this song. I didn’t believe I could do it in the first place when he asked me to learn it.

Reason 1: The complexity of the song

Reason 2: If it went wrong somewhere (believe me, even an error of the slightest magnitude, almost inaudible to the human ear), there will be nowhere to hide from Murali’s utterly honest (if terribly wrong, scathing) remarks.

But the excitement of the challenge was too tempting. So here is my attempt for you to listen.

Movie: Rajashilpi (Malayalam)

Music: Raveendran

Originally sung by: K.S.Chithra

P.S: My dear Malayali friends will please forgive me for the utter murder of the language in some places!

Arivin Nilaavae (Malayalam) | Upload Music

Panivizhum Iravu

2008-09-30T13:33:00.002+01:00

"Mouna Ragam" is one of my alltime favourite movies (you might hear the same thing from about 1 million people!). Most of the people I know have identified themselves in one way or another in varying degrees with Revathy's character in the movie. I loved the way the married couple in the movie start their life together as strangers and gradually come to respect each other and eventually acknowledge their love for one another.

My sister was saying that she gets confused with "Panivizhum Iravu" and "Mandram vandha thendralukku" because their tunes are so similar though the moods are dramatically different. I particularly like the harmony in this song and enjoyed singing that more than the main song itself. Kumaran, my singing friend, took a little less than a day to sing this song and mix it since getting the track. Hope you enjoy our version! :)

Movie: Mouna Ragam

Singers: SPB, S.Janaki

Music: Ilayaraaja

Panivizhum Iravu- With Kumaran | Upload Music

Aur Kyaa

2008-09-30T13:25:00.004+01:00

It has only been about a month since I have known AJ through the blogging community. But we have already become great friends, so much that I am one of the chosen first few to know about his recent engagement to this sweet angel, Amrutha!

I have so much to learn from his enthusiasm and relentlessness in getting a song right! And am honoured to sing this song (his first duet) with him! Please do listen to this song from AJ's blogspot!

http://ajrockaj.blogspot.com/2008/09/aur-kyalovely-romantic-song.html

AJ, thanks for including me in your circleof friends! Here's to you and Amu!....

Thendral Vandu Ennai Thodum

2008-09-25T13:55:00.003+01:00

Actor Mohan has been very lucky in that almost all his movies have had fantastic songs. Though I prefer to forget the visuals when I listen to them(no offense to Mohan here!), I just can't stop admiring the impact these tunes have had on us!

I was so happy when NVK sir asked me if I could sing this song with him. Totally enjoyed myself though NVK definitely did a better job and that too so effortlessly! The most enjoyable part for me was the humming in the 2nd interlude- spent a good few minutes( ok, hours) trying to figure out KJY's part! Do let me know what you think…

Movie: Thendrale Ennai Thodu

Music: Ilayaraaja

Singers: KJY, S.Janaki

Thendral Vandu ennai Thodum- With NVK Music Upload

Un Paarvaiyil

2008-09-17T15:36:00.003+01:00

This song is very special to me though just not sure why !

This is the second time I had to do it and the first take was a disaster as aptly pointed out by a musician friend. Thank you, Murali!

My rendition is nowhere in the league of the original but I know you are not expecting it! :)

I am not going to spoil the special feeling of this song with a long story. So listen on...

Movie : Amman Koil Kizhakkaale Singers : KJY, Chithra Music : Ilayaraaja

Un Paarvaiyil Oraayiram Upload Music

Inji Iduppazhagaaaa

2008-09-17T09:07:00.004+01:00

"Thevar Magan" would easily figure in my list of most favourite Kamal movies. Being a diehard fan of Kamal from an early age of, hmm..let's see... three, it isn't surprising that he stole my heart yet again ,as Sakthivel Thevar this time! The fact that Shivaji acted in it made it super special.

Gauthami's and Revathy's dialogues were of particular interest to me

"அதுவும் நாந்தேன்...தலைக்கு வேப்பெண்ணை தடவிருக்கென்ல...."

Not long before I had watched the movie 5 or 6 times, my 'pazhagum Tamizh' totally changed! The remaining 20-odd times I watched the movie was for the sheer kick and pride of imitating them (and for Kamal, of course!).

Vivek Mahadevan and I have sung this evergreen song from "Thevar Magan". IR has beautifully used Sindhu Bhairavi(see PS) for this rustic tune and the soul of the song is the dialogue before it. Thankfully, we did not have to spoil your joy by presenting our version of the dialogue and have retained the original part. It was so difficult trying to bring SJ's expressions but I have tried my best. My dream to sing a duet with Kamal may never come true but this is as close as it gets!

Would love to hear your comments!

Inji Iduppazhagaa Upload Music PS: See this interesting comment from Vivek about the raga of the song:

pallavi - sindhu bhairavi sayal

charanam - at punna vanathinile - keeravani

- at on kazhuthil malai - there s a change to antara Ga from sadarana Ga from previous line

Hmmm...

Raathiriyil Poothirukkum

2008-09-14T12:09:00.005+01:00

My final round in Sapthaswarangal required me to render a medley of three songs and the challenge was in linking them all together seamlessly. My natural choice was a medley of MSV compositions in Sivaranjani. But one of the three was a song sung by Vani Jayaram. So? So, I just could not find the courage to do it, as VJ was going to be the judge for the finals!

So my second choice was a Hamsaanandhi medley :

Minsaara kanna

Raathiriyil Poothirukkum

Raaga deepam yaettrum neram

Though I still feel bad for not having gone with my first choice (want to do it someday in the blog), I did enjoy singing the second one, mainly because of the rich raga that Hamsaanandhi is. And also it must have given me the winning edge as the result was favourable to me :)

Kumaran is a wonderful friend of mine but as a co-singer, he is such a difficult person to work with! He just does his part so beautifully and flawlessly that he makes me want to redo mine atleast a couple of times. Loved singing this duet with him. Thanks Kumaran, for the wonderful mixing and for kindling the competitive spirit in me!

Movie: Thanga Magan

Singers: SPB, S.Janaki

Music: Ilayaraaja

Raathiriyil Poothirukkum- With Kumaran Upload Music

Madhuram Jeevamrutha Bindu

2008-09-07T11:18:00.002+01:00

Bangla and Malayalam are two languages that I have wanted to learn so desperately. One has the quality of the soft, tender touch of love and the other of the romantic eruptions of a bubbling amorous youth!

My love for Malayalam started at a very young age due to the influence of my relations in Trivandrum and was fed by those numerous (brilliant) movies I used to watch as I grew up. Yet I am so far away from appreciating its poetical works and try to brush up my knowledge by occasional conversations with my friends in broken Malayalam.

This song is for my dear friend, Asha who is making a determined effort in getting me to sing more Malayalam numbers in the process of enriching my vocabulary in this beautiful language.

Madhuram Jeevamrutha Bindu for you from the movie Chenkol, originally sung by Chithraji

Madhuram Jeevamrutha Bindu at Muziboo.com

Kalyana Thenila

2008-08-29T13:45:00.003+01:00

I did not think singing "Kalyana Thenila" with a track would pose to be a challenge. The tune seemed simple enough and I had sung it so many times before, so I was good to go when Kumar Srinivasan and I decided to work on it.

I would have sung it some 15 times and I was not happy with the result. Each time, I would either forget some sangathi or I would fail to reach the top note or forget the lyrics. The shruthi was a tad too high for me and the track was faster than the original, to add to my misery. Eventually, I sat down to listen to the song a dozen times or so. After listening to the subtle brigaas that Chithra had sung so effortlessly, I just wanted to give up the whole thing.

I thank Kumar for bearing with the suffering of having to use my vocals for his duet!

Movie: Mounam Sammatham Music: Ilayaraaja

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Kannaalane

2008-08-22T13:06:00.003+01:00

By the time the movie “Bombay” had left the theatres that year, my sister and I had seen it about a dozen times. We could accurately recite the dialogue AND BGM of every scene in the movie and remembered every single costume ArvindSamy and Manisha wore and provided great entertainment (?) to our neighbours until the wee hours, with our recital of every song in the movie. "Bombay" did a lot of damage to our studies too, you can imagine! My parents were beginning to get very worried about the mental state of their adolescent daughters!

The movie only strengthened the immense how-to-name-it feeling we had developed for ARR! I still remember how we used to look forward to the scene where Manisha goes to Arvind's house – "Pa SA Ni SA Ni SA Ri SA" in Hariharan's scintillating voice in the background- just one of those umpteen ecstatic moments…

"Kannaalane" is my favourite pick from Chithra's solos (for any MD). Every single nuance in the song (she doesn't sing the same line the same way twice) was just perfect.

Of course, I know you will fondly pardon me for singing this song! I am only like a child trying to catch the moon!

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