New Age Musicians in Bollywood

Music is more than entertainment . It is company to a lonely heart, a form of expression and also therapeutic. Music collections make wonderful gifts which can be treasured from time to time. In the earlier times of Bollywood, music was simple and lyrics were rich. There was less scope for employing instruments which were very traditional in nature. The latest recording studios are equipped with modern equipments and voice treating abilities.

 The public demand is also for all kinds of music. The new generation is a keen observer of international grooves and modern remix technology. Easy access to music is also making them aware of hit numbers and this is seen as the latest mode of entertainment. Instrumental music is also catching up. If one actually has to talk about musicians then it is a known fact that R.D. Burman was many years ahead of his times. His songs were mega hits and that automatically made the movies a blockbuster.

 Ismail Durbar can also be seen as a great musician of todays times. The song of Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam have a strong Indian and yet the magic is well nourished with beautiful singers. The songs of Devdas again makes him a marvelous musician. Anu Malik is always in the musical arena churning out new numbers. His compositions are easily popular with the audience and masala movie music seemed to be his forte. His music for Virasaat was a great hit that made people recognize his talent. More magic in music is seen in Aks, Ashoka and Akele Hum Akele Tum.

 The soul filling music of the trio group, Shankar Ehsaan and Loy are always coming up with innovative ideas in music to enthrall the audience. The songs of Taare Zameen Par is proof enough with the emotional rendition in Meri Maa. There was hit songs in Dil Chahta Hain and the latest hit is about Rock On.

 There are no words to describe the powerful music and magic created by A.R. Rehman. The songs and beats of Taal still evoke refreshing memory. The latest forte seems to be the songs of Jaane Tu which was again explored with the fresh voice of Rashid Ali. The songs of Guru with his own sung numbers are pure melody. There is lot of scope with singular albums with pop artistes like Mika, Hard Kaur and DJ stalwarts with their specialized music remixes. 

Indian Tribal Songs

India is known for its rich history and culture. What is the better way to represent them both than by the Indian tribal songs? These songs are very popular across the whole country as they represent the cultural diversity of our country. Almost every part of our country has something different especially, the food, the language and of course the music. This explains the wide range of Indian tribal song styles, which are found.

The best part of Indian tribal music is that it represents the culture of the particular state or region and more importantly is fun to watch and listen. Did you know that this kind of music needs no formal training? It is just passed from generation to generation. Though many youngsters these days are educated, they still like to represent their roots and dance to the melody of their tribal songs. With these songs, they celebrate their life.

You would be surprised to know that there is a tribal song for every occasion. It can be a birth, marriage or festival, tribal music offers a wide range of music for any event. It is usually played with drums and small flutes. The instruments include Dholak, Saringda, Bansuri, and many more. Each instrument is made from different materials and each of them produces different music. This factor gives the Indian tribal song a different charm and appeal.

Robot – Music Review

Robot is directed by Shankar who is known for making extravagant movies. The movie is in news for long because of Southern superstar Rajnikanth. The lead actress is Aishwarya Rai Bachchan and music has been composed by Oscar winner A R Rahman. The album begins with “Naina Miley” rendered by Rahman, Suzanne DMello, Lady Kash n' Krissy. Honestly, the song has good beats but that’s about it. Doesn’t leave any impact and is just kind of okay.

Next up is “Pagal Anukan” sung by Mohit Chauhan and Shreya Ghosal. Another average song that you can listen once or twice but that’s that. However, the song has innovative lyrics.

Third track is “Chitti Dance” and it is sure to make you fall for the Mozart of Madras all over again. The number has incendiary cocktail of break-beats, drum 'n bass, bol-scatting and a soaring string break. It is more like a western classical symphony. Rahman at his very best. Going by the music of this particular track, you can expect some killer moves by Rajni.

Next song is “Arima Arima” sung by Hariharan, Naresh Iyer, Sadhana Sargam and Benny Dayal. The song has ‘robotic’ feel but fails to leave an impact. It definitely has marching feel and distorted guitar dives but I am not sure you will be humming it for long.

“Kilimanjaro” is the next track of the album. Full of strange lyrics and average melody, this one is another downer. Same goes for track six, “Boom Boom Robo Da” which seems to fuse everything from Punjabi folk to hip hop to power chord-guitar riffing to nylon string sophistication, and yet fails to sooth or excite.

The album ends with “O Naye Insaan”, sung by Srinivas D and Khatija Rahman. Gives you that oft repeated “Robotic” feel but lacks in emotion. All in all, Robot is a let-down from Rahman’s standards.

We Are Family- Music Review

“We Are Family” is the official remake of award-winning English movie “Stepmom” starring Julia Roberts and Susan Sarandon. The movie has been shot in Australia and stars Kajol, Kareena and Arjun Rampal. Directed by first-timer Siddharth P Malhotra, We Are Family is a family drama about two women caught in an extraordinary situation. Music has been composed by Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy and produced by Karan Johar. Lyrics have been written by Irshad Kamil and Anvita Dutt.

The album begins with duet “Aankhon mein neendein” sung by talented duo of Rahat Fateh Ali Khan and Shreya Ghosal. The song depicts honeyed flavor of a new romance. The track is quite good but not something that you will linger over.

Next number has been sung by Akriti Kakkar, Suraj Jagan and Anushka Manchanda. It is more of a desi rock which seems like an ode to Elvis Presley. Lyrics are not that very impressive but you must give credit to the singer troika for putting in their best.

“Reham o Karam” rendered by electrifying combination of Shankar Mahadevan and Vishal Dadlani is a tender and soothing track. Quite similar to “Noor-e-Khuda” from My Name is Khan, It has a sentimental feel to it. A wonderful sung made even more appealing by the quality of the singers.

Next up is “Hamesha & forever” rendered by wonderful pair of Sonu Nigam and Shreya Ghosal. It is a melodious albeit melancholic tribute to eternal affections. Song is sure to make you emotional. The sad theme continues with “Sun le dua yeh aasman” sung by Bela Shende of “Su Che” fame.

All in all, this album is certainly not the best of Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy but we can safely give it one try.

Aisha – Music Review

Amit Trivedi has been hailed as one of the most promising Indian composers to have arrived on the scene in recent times. His latest offering is ‘Aisha’ starring Abhay Deol and Sonam Kapoor. The movie is a take on the famous novel ‘Emma’ by Jane Austen.

The album opens with ‘Suno Aisha’, a track sung by Ash King, Nakash Aziz and Trivedi himself. Quite a pretty number, it has simple, basic lyrics and soothing melody. The track is bound to garner good reviews.

As large portions of the movie have been picturized in Delhi and Punjab, it has distinctly Punjabi flavor. Second track of the album, ‘Gal Mitthi Mitthi’ will remind you of Trivedi’s ‘Oye Lucky! Lucky Oye’. Tochi Raina has provided the vocals in an interesting club-Punjabi tradition. Song is going to have its days in clubs and discotheques. Well worthy of repeat listening, this one.

Nikhil D'Souza, Neuman Pinto and Trivedi team up for ‘Sham’. It is very much an alt-rock style guitar ballad that evokes a pleasant response from the listeners. Song is unconventional and is quite different. The song has got a wonderful feel about it. One of the best tracks of the album, this one.

Anushka Manchanda lends her voice to next track, ‘Behke Behke’. This is a very stylish song and has several shades to it, right from salsa chorus to a string of hip-hop. A completely fun song, Behke Behke will surely make you groove.

Anusha Mani does an excellent job singing Lehrein. The song boasts of simple sweetness and is more like a standard romantic lament. Full marks to the singer for her performance.

‘By The Way’ is more like a shiny-happy pop song from 80s. The track is full of energy and Anushka croons it quite well. The last two numbers of the album are remixes of Gal Mitthi Mitthi and Lehrein. All in all, Aisha is a fresh and cleverly built album. The songs will definitely leave you wanting for more.

Lamhaa - Music Review

Remember Rahul Dholakia? Yes, he is the same person who made much acclaimed and hard-hitting Parzania. Now, he is ready with his second offering called ‘Lamhaa’ starring Sanjay Dutt, Bipasha Basu and Kunal Kapoor. The movie is set amidst the troubled milieu of Kashmir and appears to be a gritty take on situations panning out in beautiful valley of Kashmir. The music of the movie has been composed by young music composer Mithoon who had earlier given us ‘Bas Ek Pal’ and ‘The Train’. Lyrics have been provided by Saeed Qadri and Amitabh Varma.

The album kick starts on a supremely impressive note with ‘Madno’ rendered by Kshitij Tarey and Chinmayi. The track is a wandering and scenic melody. A very refreshing song, Madno beautifully expresses the anxiety of undeclared feelings.

Madno has another version in ‘Saajnaa’ surprisingly rendered by Mika Singh. The singer has done a commendable job here. Mika is famous for lively chartbusters but here, he has definitely taken us by surprise by singing in a slow-paced, melancholic tone.

‘Main Kaun Hoon’ marks entry of Dr Palash Sen of Euphoria fame after a long time. This one is a very intense song and has throbbing tone. The track talks about terror, gloom and uncertainty in Kashmir. The song has elements of anger and pain and Palash Sen has done a wonderful job here.

The next number is ‘Zameen-o-aasman’ delivered by Kshitij Tarey. Track continues the forlorn mood of the previous number. It depicts the heart-breaking tale of a broken paradise. A mellow composition, you are bound to be affected with the poignancy of the song.

‘Rehmat Zara’ is a semi Sufi-rock creation sung by Mithoon and Mohammad Irfan. Definitely an impactful song. The album finishes with ‘Salaam Zindagi’ rendered by Mohammad Irfan and Arun Daga. It is an optimistic song highlighted with delightful giggly kiddie sounds and voices chattering in Kashmiri. All in all, Mithoon has done a fantastic job here and gives us lots of hope for his upcoming ventures.

Raajneeti : Music Review

Director: Prakash Jha

Music: Wayne Sharpe, Pritam, Shantanu Moitra and Aadesh Srivastava

Lyrics: Gulzar, Sameer, Swanand Kirkire and Irshad Kaamil

Cast: Nana Patekar, Ajay Devgn, Ranbir Kapoor, Katrina Kaif, Manoj Bajpai, Arjun Rampal,

Naseeruddin Shah

Raajneeti must be one of the most anticipated movies of the year. Movie promises to be different from what you have ever seen on Indian politics. The movie boasts of a super talented star cast. Expectations are quite high from the movie because of Prakash Jha’s track record. Movie will release on 4^th of June but for the time-being let’s have a look at its music. There are no less than four music composers and equal number of lyricists.

The album begins with drizzle of romance and music cheerfulness in ‘Bheegi si Bhagi si’. Composed by talented Pritam, the track has enchanting vocals and wordings. Rendered by Mohit Chauhan and Antara Mitra, the song will manage to strike chord with you.

Perhaps the pick of the album is ‘More Piya’, composed and sung by Aadesh Srivastav. This is unique song with wonderful mixture of Indian classical music and lounge stylized feel. The fusion pitched composition is serene and captivating. There is a second version of ‘Mora Piya (Trance Mix)’ by deep-throated Kavita Seth. Track has lighter octaves rendered in mould of sluggishly pitched disco-beat fillers. The third version ‘Mora Piya (Twilight Mix)’ is amalgamation of club and lounge remix, rendered by Aadesh Srivastava, Shashi and Rosalie Nicholsan.

‘Ishq Barse’ is a rustic village raunchy track. Composed by Shantanu Moitra and written by Swanand Kirkire, the vocals have been provided by Pronob Biswas and Swanand Kirkire. Song appears appropriate for the theme of the movie. Next up is Wayne Sharpe’s ‘Dhan Dhan Dharti’. Written by Gulzar, this is a spell-binding number. Singers Shankar Mahadevan and Sonu Nigam together pulsate out a never-ending spells of pop-patriotism.

The second version of ‘Dhan Dhan Dharti’ is sung by Sonu Nigam. He has given his best to this song and this must be one of the best patriotic track of our times. All in all, Raajneeti is a realistically penned meaningful cinema that manages to give us soulful music. Worth listening few times.

Raavan Music Review

It’s simply amazing how every time the talented duo of filmmaker Mani Ratnam and master composer A R Rahman come up with some scintillating music. Their latest film ‘Raavan’ is their tenth collaboration since Roja and every time we have been treated to some of the most fascinating pieces of music. This eagerly awaited movie stars Abhishek Bachchan, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan and Vikram as its lead players. Going by the music of the movie, you can assure yourself of a treat. If Rahman’s music was not enough, you have Gulzar’s lyrics as well. Now, you can’t go wrong here.

The first song of the album, ‘Beera’ is an eclectic mix of rustic flavor and thumping beats. Vijay Prakash and Mustafa Kutoane along with Keerthi Sagathia are sure to take your breath away with their zealous verve. Song makes an instant connection with the listeners. ‘Behne De’ by Karthik is a complete mood changer. The lyric of the song is nothing but passionate and the song definitely packs a punch.

Sukhwinder Singh has always been a consistent member of Rahman’s gang and here again; he has delivered a masterful performance in ‘Thok de killi’. The song has enough firepower and drum and drama to make you fall in love with its feeling. Next comes, ‘Ranjha Ranjha’ in the soulful voices of Rekha Bharadwaj and Javed Ali. Gulzar is simply terrific here and Rahman has concocted his magic once again. The song has romantic overtures and is kind of a free-wheeling melody.

‘Khili Re’ sung by Reena Bhardwaj has amorous and soft feelings to it. ‘Kata Kata’ is a delightful rendition of upbeat bigul and has ethnic flavor to it. Rendered by Ila Arun, Sapna Awasthi along with Kunal Ganjawala, the song has teasing, earthy and raunchy undertones.

Rahman remains what he is; simply Rahman and you just can’t afford to miss this exquisite outcome.

Musical Gift Ideas

Music plays a very important role in our lives. This is something which we can always relate to during any point of our lives. Whenever we are stressed or tired or in a certain frame of mind, listening to good music soothes us. A number of social and personal occasions are incomplete without including songs and dance sequences. Almost all of us like to listen to good songs but some music lovers are simply passionate about this wonderful form of art.

Music can be a wonderful gift as well. How about compiling a selected collection of songs for your loved ones? Surely, it sounds appealing. If someone in your life has a fetish for songs, you can always make a wonderful collection of songs and make your relationship stronger. There are several corporate gift ideas for music lovers.

First of all, you should make a complete compilation of your loved one’s favorite artists. If in case, the person is more inclined towards a particular singer, then it would be a better idea to specifically make a CD of that artist. Instrumental music is another form of music loved by number of music lovers. One can gift instrumental music of flute, table, violin or guitar as well.

So how about gifting a walkman or portable CD player or even a good music system? Surely, it would make for a gift worth cherishing. Need some more gift ideas? It could be season tickets to a concert series or an invitation pass to any music show. Autographed picture or poster of favorite music artist can be an exciting option as well. Other wonderful music gifts that you can think of; a music book, gig bag for hauling music, musical notebook, or a musical instrument like guitar or piano etc.

Tips for Writing A Song

So you are a music fan and love listening to a wide range of music? I assume, you are. Welcome to the world of music fans where you are standing together with millions of people all across the globe. The truth is, almost everyone loves music and though the language and type of music may differ yet it will be nigh impossible to come across a person who is not fascinated by the power of music.

Many of you must be interested in writing your own songs. The idea itself is creative and fascinating enough. But then, when it comes to penning down lyrics, you start struggling for right set of words. There is nothing to worry if you are facing this particular problem. The important thing is you are passionate about writing songs. Secondly, if you have the ability to express yourself in words and are willing to be patient, the job is half done.

The basic thing to know is music theory and for that either you can consult someone who knows about writing music or there is always the option of internet surfing. Plenty of sites will describe in detail about nuances of music theories. Technicalities of a song are another important factor that is very important to know. It will also include different structure of a song.

You must be a good listener of music where you should be able to focus on individual parts like lyrics, tune, beats etc. Pick one of your favorite subjects which could be love, sadness, life, comedy etc and focus on that. Carrying a pen and paper is very important because anytime you can come across a wonderful note or idea or line. Most of the times, just a certain part of the song comes in the mind. Focus on that and learn to integrate it into the structure of the entire song at appropriate places. Try to hum your written lyrics in different rhymes. Go over your entire piece over and over again. This will give you a better idea of the total feel of the song. The last step will be getting the feedback from other persons.

Allauddin Khan

Indian classical music is blessed with numerous gems. One of the most prominent figures in Indian classical music was Allauddin khan. He was born in 1862 at Shibpur village in Brahmanbaria (located in modern day Bangaldesh) and kept enthralling people with his mesmerizing talent as long as he was alive. He is believed to be one of the greatest musicians Indian people have ever seen. He was primarily a Sarod expert but at the same time, he was equally good at playing other instruments as well. He had a great influence on Maihar gharana of Indian classical music. Allauddin Khan was the court musician of Brijnath Singh, the Maharaja of Maihar Estate in the Central Province.

To his credit, Baba Allauddin Khan gave birth to music stalwarts like Ali Akbar Khan and Annapurna Devi. Other great Indian musicians like Ravi Shankar, Nikhil Banerjee, Vasant Rai, Indranil Bhattacharya, Pannalal Ghosh, Wazir Khan etc took their training in music from baba Khan only. His introduction to music happened courtesy his brother Fakir Aftabuddin. Later on, he learned fine nuances of music from singer Gopal Krishna Bhattacharya.

His interesting life journey took him to another music legend Amritalal Dutt who further finetuned his skills. He also learnt European classical violin from a Mr Lobo. Later on he fell in love with Sarod and decided to study Sarod. He learnt Sarod from Asghar Ali Khan and later on Wazir Khan Beenkar who was among the last direct descendants of the legendary Tansen.

Soon, Baba Allauddin Khan became the court musician of Brijnath Singh and completely transformed the Maihar gharana of Indian classical music. He also set up the Maihar College of Music during the year 1955. Baba was recipient of several prestigious awards including Sangeet Natak Academy Award in 1952, coveted Padma Bhushan and Padma Vibhushan by the Government of India during the years 1958 and 1971 respectively.

Indian Karaoke Music

Indian Karaoke music is quite popular among Indian people. And why only Indian people? It has also got a massive fan following in many other parts of the world. Hindi karaoke songs have been in existence since long and they form an important part of Indian music history. Indian karaoke songs came to the limelight during the decade of the eighties. It was no less than a revolution that completely changed the musical landscape of the country. Earlier, it was more of classical songs based culture that took a definite turn with advent of karaoke music. One distinct element of Hindi karaoke songs is clear influence of Indian folk music. Indian music thrives on different folk traditions and most of them have been used in the mainstream music. This has proved beneficial to both the popularity of folk music as well as karaoke.

Hindi karaoke songs have also been extensively used in Hindi films. The Indian beats have been greatly used with western genres like Hip-Hop and Rap and the output of music comes simply great. Punjabi sounds in particular have been extensively used in music. True fan of Hindi karaoke music must be aware of historical equipment widely used in these songs. The common instruments being used are, Rabab, Kartal, Naggada, Nal, Daf, Dholak, Ektar, Saringda, Santur, Bansuri, Chimpta, Pung, Magadi Vina, and Shankh. These are the traditional instruments and yet they have gained massive recognition in the advanced musical tradition. All in all, the growing popularity of Hindi karaoke music proves that it is here to stay and flourish.

Famous Songs by Mukesh

Indian music industry has produced several jewels. One of shining names in the glorious list of Hindi playback singers is Mukesh. His unique voice was enough to make an entire generation tune to his songs. He was the leading voice of many top class bollywood actors; foremost among them was showman Raj Kapoor. We are going to give you some of memorable songs sung by Mukesh in his heydays.

• Itna Husn Pe Guroor
• Pyar Ka Ye Mahurat
• Dekh Sakte Nahi
• Hindustan Hamara
• Chaand Si Mehbooba Ho Meri
• Bina Badra Ke Bijuria
• Baharo Ne Kiya
• Ek Hasrat Thi Ke
• Ek Din Bik Jaayega
• E-Dil-E Awara Chal
• Jinhe Hum Bhulana Chahe
• Main Aashique Hu Baharon Ka
• Kisi Ki Muskarahato Pe
• Dost Dost Na Raha
• Jo Pyar Tumne
• Chand Si Mehbooba
• Meri Tamannaoki Taqdir
• Taro Main Sajke
• Kabhi Kabhi
• Chand Ko Kya Maloom
• Zuban Pe Dard Bhari
• Jane Kahan Gaye Woh
• Tauba Ye Matwali
• Koi Jab Tumhara
• Jane Chale Jaate
• Laut Ke Aaja Mere Meet
• Barkha Rani
• Jo Tumko Ho Pasand
• Chal Akela
• Sajnwa Bairi Ho Gaye
• Deewano Se Mat Poocho
• Chand Ki Deewar
• Do Phool Khile
• Dheere Chalo
• Aansoo Bhari Hain
• Aawara Hoon
• Baharoein Ne Mera Chaman Lootkar
• Bhooli Hui Yaadoein
• Bol Radha Bol Sangam Hoga Ke Nahi
• Chod Gaye Baalam
• Duniya Banane Wale
• Haan Deewana Hoon Main
• Hum Us Des Ke Vasi Hain
• Hum Tumse Mohabbat Karke Sanam
• Humne Apna Sab Kuch Khoya
• Jaoon Kahan Bataye Dil
• Jeena Yahan Marna Yahan
• Jhoom Jhoom Ke Nacho Aaj
• Jo Pyar Tune
• Kisi Ki Muskurahaton Pe
• Aa Laut Ke Aaja Mere Meet
• Main Aashiq Hoon
• Mujhko Yaro Maaf Karna
• Mere Toote Hue Dil Se
• Mujhe Tumse Kuch Bhi Na Chahiye
• Mujhko Is Raat Ki Tanhayee Main
• Sajan Re Jhoot Mat Bolo
• Saranga Teri Yaad Mein
• Teri Yaad Dil Se
• Zindagi Khwaab Ha

Bhojpuri Songs

All the regions in India thrive on their songs in the native languages. India is a country with numerous languages and even more dialects. That explains why in India the culture of folk and tribal music has kept on thriving since centuries. One of the popular regional dialects is Bhojpuri which is basically a regional dialect of Hindi. Bhojpuri is spoken in the states of Bihar and Uttar Pradesh, the Hindi heartlands of India. From the days of obscurity, Bhojpuri has traveled a long way. It has kept enhancing its popularity in recent times. Bhojpuri songs and movies have found their way into Bollywood as well. Little known Bhojpuri stars are getting good opportunities in Hindi movies as well.

Bhojpuri is a dialect of Hindi and is based on Devnagri script. The growing popularity of Bhojpuri songs has greatly encouraged the young talented folks from Hindi heartland to try their luck in Indian music industry. Bhojpuri songs are becoming popular across few countries as well. Nations like Fiji and Mauritius have large numbers of Bhojpuri speaking population and that explains why these songs are so popular across the boundaries.

Some of the notable singers of Bhojpuri songs are Manoj Tiwari, Sharda Sinha etc. The former one has reigned supreme in Bhojpuri music as well as film industry. He has also churned out several blockbuster albums. Sharda Sinha is a veteran in Bhojpuri music industry. She is hugely popular and has also sung for Hindi movies. One of the recent emergences is Guddu Rangila who has done some great works apart from making funny videos.

Anu Malik

Born on 2nd November, 1960, Anu Malik is the son of veteran music composer Sardar Malik. He is known for belting one hit after another in bollywood films. He has given long list of hit music in numerous Hindi movies. He is one of the few music directors from india who has worked in crossover films and his song has also been included in foreign movies. He has worked in Bride and Prejudice and his song ‘Chamma Chamma’ from the movie ‘China Gate’ was included in the famous English movie Moulin Rouge. Anu Malik Debuted in 1981 with a movie named Poonam. That was followed by some hit movies like ‘Sohni Mahiwal’, Mard, Jaal, Mujrim and Ganga Jamuna Saraswati. Yet he had to wait for some time before he could make it to big league.

Anu Malik’s moment of truth came in 1993 with the movie Phir Teri Kahani Yaad Ayee. That brought him huge success and recognition. This hit movie was further followed by several hits including Jaanam, Sir, and Baazigar. He had made it to the top league. He also experimented with different kind of music in movies like Border, Aks, Fiza, and Mujhe Kuch Kehena hai. He has also launched few private albums.

To his credit, Anu Malik has won several awards including The National Film Award for Best Music Direction for the film Refugee in 2001. He has also won Filmfare Best Music Director two times for Baazigar (1993) and Main Hoon Na (2004) and Baazigar (1993). He further got the Special Jury Award (Filmfare) for his outstanding contribution in music.

Some of his recent releases were Kambakkht ishq, Ugly Aur Pagli, Toonpur Ka Superhero, Victory, 7 Days in Slow Motion and Maan Gaye Mughall-E-Azam.

Ananda Shankar

Born on 11th December 1942 in the Almora, Uttar Pradesh, Ananda Shankar is renowned in the amazing world of Indian music. Music ran in his blood as can be made out from his relationship with legendary sitarist Pandit Ravi Shankar. He was nephew of the great musician and his parents were Amala and Uday Shankar, famous classical dancers. What brought him fame was his expertise at mixing eastern music styles with western music. His popularity can be gauged from the fact that he worked with several great music personalities including Jimi Hendrix.

He learned instrument from Dr Lalmani Misra of Varanasi. He brought fame to country and himself when he started to travel to western countries in late 1960s. His first album was released in 1970. The album was success because of its unique mixture of Indian classical compositions and sitar based popular western hit songs. His return to India after the huge success of his first album saw him experimenting with music even more vigorously. His next album was ‘Ananda Shankar And His Music’ that again proved to be runaway hit both critically and commercially. The USP of his album was mixing the sounds of an array of instruments including guitar, table, drums, sitar, mridangam and moog synthesizers.

1990s witnessed a complete new avatar of Sharma’s music. His music became a big hit in nightclubs of London. He kept reinventing and experimenting with music and made tours to different countries. Ananda Sharma died on 26 March 1999 but his contribution will always be remembered.

Alka Yagnik

Indian music industry is blessed with several amazing musical talents. Different eras have given us numerous gems that have made public cry and laugh with them. The old generation still can’t think of any other singers than the likes of Mohammad Rafi, Lata Mangeshkar or Mukesh etc. current generation has its own choices. But one singer who has continued to hold sway with her extremely melodious voice is Alka Yagnik. She is present in the industry for more than two decades and continues to enchant us with her wonderful voice.

Who can forget songs like Saanwariya Saanwariya, Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna, Tumhi Dekho Na, Kuch to Hua Hai, Salaam, Pooch Rahe Hain, Mere Mehboob Mera Sanam, Ek Do Teen, Kuch Kuch Hota Hai, Hum Tum, Laal Dupatta, Oodhni, Tauba, Kitni Bechain Hoke, Jaana Kyon, Badi Mushkil, Dil Ne Yeh Kaha Dil Se, Mehndi Hai Rachnewali, Chand Chupa and Taal Se etc.

Alka Yagnik belongs to a family of musicians. She showed her talents at an early age and even sang Bhajans for the Calcutta Radio at a tender age of six years. She got her first break in the movie Payal Ki Jhankaar in 1979. But her real moment of truth came with blockbuster song ‘Ek Do Teen’ from the film Tezaab 1988. Since then she never looked back and kept giving one hit after another. She has also sung in several other languages like Marathi, Tamil, Malayalam, Telugu, and Punjabi. Alka Yagnik has won several Filmfare Awards, National Film Awards, Zee Cine Awards, Star Screen Awards, International Indian Film Academy and MTV Asia Viewers Choice Award.

Ustad Ali Akbar Khan

Born on April 14, 1922, Ustad Ali Akbar Khan is known as the one of the most accomplished Indian classical musicians. His fame was not restricted to India. He was a famous personality in western music world as well who helped in popularizing Indian classical music in the region. A Sarode wizard, Ustad Ali Akbar Khan had a knack of producing brilliant compositions. Many people termed him the "Indian Johann Sebastian Bach."

Ustad Ali Akbar Khan was bron in East Bengal, the modern day Bangladesh. He belonged to a family of great musicians. His father was a legend in North Indian music he learnt basics of music from his father and uncle. Usatd learned several instruments but finally decided to focus on sarode and vocal. At the age of thirteen, he gave his first public performance. Ustad also worked as a court musician to the Maharaja of Jodhpur. Ustad has several performances to his credit in USA and UK. He also started Ali Akbar College of Music In Marin County, California.

Not many people know but Ustad Ali Akbar Khan also produced music in several films like Aandhiyan, Devi, House Holder, Little Buddha and Khudita Pashan. These movies were acclaimed on international level and made by legends like Satyajit Ray and Bernardo Bertolucci. Ustad Ali Akbar Khan also won Asian Paints Shiromani Award. After a prolonged illness, Ustad finally left us on June 19, 2009, in San Francisco (USA). He is survived by his wife Mary and eleven children.

Reiki Music

Music decides our mood. We humans often love to be lost in the magic of music. Sometimes, we associate songs with different parts of our life and revel in nostalgia. Music is a source of memories, time and places. Even the worst of moods can be perked up with help of music. Reiki has become very popular in recent times. Many people have openly accepted the benefits of the art of Reiki. In that context, it is natural that Music is used in reiki. When you practice reiki, you are taught to concentrate on flowing energy. Music is used in reiki to bring your focus on healing therapy. One starts reflecting inward in reiki and music just sets the tone for inner reflection. It makes you feel relaxed and together they work magic.

While you practice reiki, try music that has natural sounds. It could be cascading of waters or chirping of birds. Other preferred source of music is flute music, quiet electronic music, or even chants of Sanskrit verses or sacred chants of Buddha. These chants and mantras help you in concentrating better. Reiki music is used for healing that also leads to calming down of your body and mind. The background music helps you in concentrating and enhances the meditation skill. Music is always optional in reiki; however music goes well the meditation. The music also helps in augmenting whole brain synchronization. Try it, it is sure to work wonders.

Indian Wedding Songs

Indians love to celebrate weddings. Go to nay part of India and you will find wedding function to be a major community occasion. So when wedding is such a huge occasion in our lives then how could be we leave behind beat of dhol, foot tapping songs, and string of the Tumba. These things are most essential in any wedding function. According to Hindu rituals and culture, music is a very important part in marriage ceremonies. The thing about music is it makes things lively and adds to the overall festive mood. However, types of music differ from region to region and place to place. Music could be added to all sort of wedding ceremonies like sangeet, mehndi, main day wedding and vidaai ceremony.

We will talk about some popular wedding songs that are regularly performed at all the marriage functions. Ek pardesi mera dil le gaya, Dulhan chali, Dulhan Hum Le Jayenge, Bhootni Ke, Saajan Ji Ghar Aaye, Soni de nakhre, Desi Girl, Pyara Bhaiya Mera, Aisa Pehli Baar Hua Hai, Ghoonghat Mein Chaand, Mehndi Laga Ke Rakhna, Babul Ki Duaayein Leti Jaa, Ek Kuwara, Yeh Galiyan Yeh Chobara, Mera Piya Ghar Aaya, Mujh Se Shaadi Karogi, Dulhan Bhi Lajawaab, Maa da ladla, Mujhse Shadi Karogi, Tujhe Dekh Ke Dil Mera, Main Joru Ka Ghulam, Chote Chote Bhayon, Cham se wo aajaye, Aaj hai sagai, Maahi ve, Banno ki saheli, and Kala sha kala etc.