Like father, like son: Yuvraj Hans goes it alone

by FARIS GOHIR

BEING the son of a legendary singer didn’t stop Yuvraj Hans from following in the giant foot­steps of his father Hans Raj Hans into the music industry.

The talented singer has bal­anced a blossoming career in music with acting in Punjabi films and making a name for himself on the live circuit. The rising Punjabi star hopes to create a legacy just like his father.

Eastern Eye caught up with Yu­vraj to talk about music, his dad, future hopes and more...

Growing up, how aware were you of your father’s fame and popularity as a singer?

I was massively aware, as my fa­ther is a legend not only in the Punjab but for music lovers across the world. I grew up watching my father perform and seeing crowds of people coming to see him, but overall our upbringing was what you would see in a nor­mal household.

When did you first get connect­ed to music?

I was connected from a very young age as I grew up in a family attached to music from the heart. It was in my bloodstream from early on. (Smiles) I became a sucker for melodious music and still am.

How did your father feel about you following in his footsteps?

My father was very proud. He is my backbone and greatest sup­port. His main aim for me was that I prosper in my studies first, but he has always been very proud of whatever I chose to do in life, including music.

How much of an influence has he been on you musically?

My father has one hundred per cent influenced my music. I have been listening to his music since the beginning. He is my mentor! He is the driving force behind me and my music.

Did you not think it was a giant shadow to leap out of, and weren’t you worried about obvi­ous comparisons?

Yes, I was worried to begin with as being the son of a legend will lead some people to undoubtedly compare me to him. Also, till this day, I am still trying my level best to make him proud and I will continue to do so.

Tell us about your recent song...

My recent release Nachan Ton Pehlan is a modern recreation of my father’s song. It was a really tough job recreating my father’s chartbuster. I tried my best and hope listeners appreciate it.

What is the masterplan going forward in your career?

I’m not the kind to plan ahead. (Laughs) I am definitely not a planner and prefer to go with the flow. I like to keenly observe what is going on in society these days and what my listeners are listen­ing to.

What kind of songs can we ex­pect from you?

I love all types of music, whether it’s a slow romantic number or upbeat bhangra number. I have kept my horizon broad so you can expect everything from me.

What was it like collaborating with your father on the recent release Lekh?

My father is my inspiration so it was the best day of my life. It’s a dream come true. I feel so lucky that I could be a part of this song.

What is the best advice he has given you?

My father had always guided me to listen to my heart.

Who would you love to duet with?

The one and only Padamshri Hans Raj Hans ji! That would be a dream come true.

How much does live performing mean to you?

I cannot explain how I feel when I sing live. It’s the best feeling any­body can get. I am already doing live shows in India at the moment and loving it.

Tell us something about you that not many people know...

I am kind of an introvert and take time to express what I feel for others. I just like to plug in my headphones, listen to soulful mu­sic and block the negativity.

What are your biggest passions away from music?

I love travelling and spending time with loved ones. When I am not working on music, I am at home. I also enjoy cooking so much and feel it’s therapeutic.

What songs do you listen to?

I love everything and enjoy listen­ing to all genres.

Apart from your father, which other legends do you admire?

Ustad Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan saab. He was a great singer and a per­fect composer. Nobody can com­pose like him. He is a legend.

If you could master something new, what would it be?

(Laughs) I would like to learn the guitar to impress girls.

If you could ask any singer alive or dead a question, who would it be and what would you ask?

I would like to ask Arjit Singh to sing for me live and also for free.

What inspires you?

Healthy competition inspires me.

Why do you love music?

Because I eat, sleep, walk and breathe music. Whatever I am to­day, it’s all because of music