RISING Indian music star Azadd has shown off his impressive talent on songs like the recently released ballad Umarien.
The singer/songwriter draws in diverse inspirations for his songs, ranging from classic Bollywood to contemporary pop music.
Eastern Eye found out more by getting him to select 10 songs he loves.
Tum Ho from Rockstar: This film song has a timeless melody. I have heard it countless times but every time it sounds fresh. There is some kind of magic in this song. I bet this is everyone's favourite.
Umarein by Azadd: This song resonates with my soul. It deeply aligns or connects with your inner being, emotions, or core values. It implies a profond sense of harmony and understanding between my personal experiences or beliefs and the external element that evokes this feeling. This profoundly moves me on a very deep, almost spiritual level.
Kahin Door Jab from Anand: This timeless and melancholic song from the classic film is sung by legendary playback singer Mukesh. The song is imbued with a deep sense of melancholy and nostalgia. It speaks to the longing for distant moments and bittersweet reminiscences of times gone by.
Gravity by John Mayer: The track is a soulful, blues-inspired ballad that delves into themes of struggle, balance, and perseverance. Mayer’s emotive guitar work and smooth vocals are at the forefront, supported by a minimalistic yet impactful arrangement that includes a steady rhythm section and subtle piano accents. Gravity is beautifully used as a metaphor for life’s challenges and emotional weight that can pull one down.
Musafir by Azadd: The title translates to ‘traveller’ in English. The song’s lyrics explore themes of journey, self-discovery, and the passage of time. Its lyrics will force you to just sit and think about life.
Phir Le Aya Dil from Barfi:This poignant song from the Bollywood film is beautifully sung by Arijit Singh (with a reprise version by Rekha Bhardwaj). The ghazal-style ballad evokes deep emotions and nostalgia. Musically, it features a soothing blend of traditional Indian instruments like the tabla, harmonium, and flute, creating a timeless and elegant sound. The arrangement is minimal yet impactful, allowing the vocals and lyrics to take centre-stage.
Kahani from Laal Singh Chaddha:This 2022 film track features introspective lyrics, which contribute to the narrative. They poetically express the idea of each person’s life being a unique story filled with its own set of experiences, emotions, and lessons. This song captures the protagonist's journey, reflecting on the simplicity and depth of human existence.
Le Chal Mujhe from Rang De Basanti: This AR Rahman composition has been appreciated for its lyrical beauty, serene melody, and the way it enhances the emotional and narrative depth of a film dealing with themes of patriotism, sacrifice, and youthful idealism. The song is memorable on a soundtrack that significantly contributes to the film’s powerful impact.
Shaam from Aisha: This melodious track from the 2010 Bollywood film Aisha is a romantic, feel-good number that captures the essence of youthful love. The lyrics celebrate the simple joys of life, such as watching the sunset and enjoying each other’s company, conveying a sense of warmth, romance, and contentment. The poetic and evocative words perfectly capture the mood of a serene and magical evening.
Aye Ajnabi by Azadd: This song has been appreciated for its lyrical beauty, melodic richness, and the way it encapsulates the universal experience of encountering a significant, but distant connection. The song stands out for its emotional resonance and seamless blend of modern and traditional musical elements.
Instagram: @musicazadd
A still from Phule