- Sunday, November 27, 2022
By: ASJAD NAZIR
VERSATILE ARTIST DISCUSSES HIS FORTHCOMING ROMANCE-FILLED UK TOUR
A MARVELLOUS music career has seen Shaan mix up magnificent movie songs with melodious pop hits that have delighted multi-cultural audiences across different generations and languages.
Although he is superb in the studio, the versatile singing sensation is at his best performing live on stage in front of an audience and why his forthcoming UK shows are generating a lot of excitement.
He returns for two concerts at Indigo at The O2 in London on June 18 and De Montfort Hall in Leicester on June 19.
The naturally gifted performer will be accompanied by a big band in the romance filled show Love In Concert, which sees him mix up his greatest hits with classics sung by great legends. Shaan was in good spirits when Eastern Eye caught up with him to speak about music and his hotly anticipated UK tour.
Is it fair to say you are happiest on stage?
That is very much the case. I’m absolutely happiest on stage in front of a live audience and appreciate it even more after the Covid-19 lockdown that lasted many months, and brought us all to a standstill, including my shows being postponed because of it. I can’t wait to be back on the UK stage and make up for lost time.
How much are you looking forward to your UK shows?
I, honestly, can’t wait and am counting down the days. I had performed there for three years, back-to-back and now I am returning after a three-year gap because of the pandemic with brand new, super entertaining and interactive musical show Love In Concert. I’m so excited to share this new show with one of my favourite audiences in the world.
What can we expect from the show?
The Shaan – Love In Concert show is based around a musical interpretation of love. Not just romance but all the various facets of love. This includes relations that are bound by love, whether it be family, friends, or patriotism. So, it’s about different stages and faces of love.
What did you mean by ‘it’s interactive’?
There will be plenty of surprises. It’s interactive because I will pick or spotlight audience members – people who could aptly represent the various songs that are based around this theme. Of course, there will be lots of high energy songs to dance along to as well. I must also add, not only am I coming with a much bigger band this time but also Pratibha Singh Baghel. My co-performer is easily one of most versatile and sought-after young singers today.
You are a versatile artist but are there any songs you enjoy performing most?
That’s a tough one to answer because I enjoy performing every song of mine on stage. I’m lucky to have on my list everything from beautiful ballads and love anthems to racy romantic tracks and big dance numbers. I also really love singing old timeless classics, so there is never a dull moment for me.
How do you feel before going on stage after all these years?
(Smiles) I’ll be honest, there is always a nervous anticipation, even now after all these years. It takes a couple of songs to settle into the flow, even today.
How do UK audiences compare to others around the world?
The UK audiences have always been special. I have had some of my most memorable performances here, whether it was with Ashaji (Bhosle) at Wembley Arena in 2004 or the BBC Ball at Royal Albert Hall (2009), and so many more since. This time I will be at O2 in London and De Montfort Hall in Leicester, ready to make more great memories. Needless to say, UK audiences have always been kind with their cheers and love for me. So, I always look forward to it.
What is it like working with leading UK promoter Vijay Bhola and his successful Rock On organisation?
Rock On productions over the years, have consistently delivered great acts. They have created a very strong and positive reputation for delivering high quality live entertainment. I am really looking forward to working with Vijay Bholaji, as all singers have such high regard for him as a professional and person.
What’s the secret to a great performance?
(Laughs) I wish I knew the secret. But I believe that if you want an audience to enjoy your performance, you need to enjoy it even more yourself as a performer. You need to connect, communicate, and interact with them through your music, and not just go out there to put up an act. You have to be real.
What is your favourite part of being on stage?
When I’m just passionately singing my heart out and feeling that collective energy from my audience. It’s an indescribable feeling.
What inspires you as a singer?
I’m inspired by all the great talent around me. Listening to good live acts motivates me to keep improving, improvising, and exploring. Of course, the wonderful audience inspires me with their love.
Do you have any unfulfilled ambitions?
I have never had unfulfilled ambitions. I always just went with the flow, believing that I will go where I’m destined to. I have enjoyed being open and making the best of whatever opportunities I get.
You have become a hero to many, but who is your musical hero?
If I have to name one, then my hero is the great Kishore Kumar. I have a great admiration for his talent, dedication, and incredible body of work.
If you could master something new in music, what would it be?
There are so many things I would love to master and perhaps learning to play guitar is top of that list.
What music dominates your own playlist?
My personal play list has varied music, but my comfort zone is surely Bollywood music from the 1970s and UK/US pop rock songs from the 1980s. Songs I grew up on.
Why should we come to the UK concerts?
It will be an unforgettable evening filled with love, great music, and wonderful energy. (Laughs) And because you’ve bought tickets.
Shaan: Love – In Concert is on at Indigo at The O2, 205 Peninsula Square, London SE10 0ES on June 18 and De Montfort Hall, Granville Road, Leicester LE1 7RU on June 19.
Visit www.rockonmusicuk.com
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