Powering her way to worldwide success

SINGER NEHA KAKKAR ON HER SOARING CAREER AND CONNECTION WITH MUSIC

by ASJAD NAZIR

HAVING grown up in a family filled with musical talents, it was always going to be inevitable that Neha Kakkar would pursue a career in singing and that is exactly what she did in a superbly successful way.

An inspiring journey has seen the naturally gifted singer rise up from competing on Indian Idol 2 as a youngster to becoming a judge in seasons 10 and 11.

The dynamite diva has entertained millions of music fans around the world with huge hits and her explosive live performances, including in the UK, having left a lasting impression. Her popular songs include Aankh Maare, Saki Saki, Dilbar Dilbar, Yaad Piya Ki, Sunny Sunny, Kala Chashma, La La La, The Hookup Song and so many more. Later this year, she will be returning to the UK for more concerts that will delight fans and add to her rapidly growing global fan base, including more than 31 million Instagram followers.

Eastern Eye caught up with Neha Kakkar to talk about her remarkable rise, music, forthcoming UK shows and more.

What connected you to singing?

It was my sister (Sonu Kakkar), who I always say is my inspiration. I saw her singing at the age of four. When I started speaking, I started singing after seeing her sing. When I used to see her sing, I used to think this is the most beautiful thing one can do, and I have been connected to singing since then.

How do you look back on your amazing musical journey?

It honestly feels like a dream, even now. I feel I am in a dream world, Asjad, and sometimes don’t believe this is happening with me. It seems too good to be true. I have been lucky to reach where I have right now. I am thankful for all that I have achieved and hope to do much more. But yes, it has been a wonderful journey.

You have delivered so many hits. Is any one song closest to your heart?

I have been lucky enough to be given a lot of great songs, but if I had to choose just one song that is closest to my heart, it is one created by my brother Tony Kakkar, which is called Mile Ho Tum Humko. It will always remain special to me.

Are you able to tell if a song will be a huge hit when recording it in the studio?

Yes, for sure. Every song I have sung has been hugely appreciated. So thankfully, I can sense that this will be a hit or this one won’t be.

You do have an impressive track record for hit songs, but has one ever exceeded your expectations or surprised you?

Yes, and that song was Dilbar. I thought it would be a hit song, but I didn’t think it would become such a big blockbuster that it did.

How much does it mean to you when a song becomes a super hit?

It means the world to me. Whichever super hit song gets added in my kitty gives me so much happiness, and it makes me feel that my voice will live longer. Each hit song motivates me to work even harder than before and keep stepping out of my comfort zone.

You have been so busy recording and touring, have you had a chance to enjoy your amazing success?

Until last year, I couldn’t enjoy my success because I have been working continuously since the age of four. But since I felt that I have earned enough and worked hard, I have started spending money on myself and taking a holiday finally. I have started enjoying life more, but music will always remain my priority. And yes, I am thankful for my success, but will never take it for granted.

You are a versatile singer. Do you prefer slow songs or the big dance numbers?

I love both. When it comes to love, songs like Mile Ho Tum Humko or Mahi Ve are loved and that means so much to me. People tell me ‘your dancing numbers are on a different league, but when we hear those slow songs, you just take our heart away’.

How much does performing live mean to you and what has been your most memorable gig?

Performing live should be everything for a singer. I think, I am meant to be on stage. I have been performing since the age of four, and it is all that I have known. I have been performing all my life. Every other day, I have performed somewhere or the other, so can’t pick one gig. But yes, there are plenty of good memories.

How much are you looking forward to returning to the UK and what can we expect?

I love the UK audience and will hopefully be back there in September. I am going to be performing in London with a full live band and some other cities as well. This time it is going to be bigger and better. (Laughs) Last time my concerts were sold out, but this time we will break the roof, I promise.

How do you manage to generate so much power in your voice?

I think it is a few things, including it being a gift from the almighty for sure. Also, you have to be really talented and smart enough to know how to use your voice. Of course, I am very passionate about my voice and will always give my best.

What is your musical master plan?

The main musical master plan is to continue working hard and entertaining audiences. I have a lot of new ideas for my music videos and some great songs on the way, which I can’t wait to share with you all. Also, expect some surprises. I think things are going to get only bigger and better.

Who would you love to collaborate with?

I have been collaborating with talented Indian artists a lot, and we have been able to create magic together. So, I would like to maybe go beyond that and work with someone like Justin Bieber or Zayn Malik.

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

With music the learning never stops. Everyday you have the opportunity to learn something new. If I had to be specific, then I would love to learn to play a piano or guitar. I just need to find the time now.

You have become a hero, but who is your own musical hero?

My own musical heroes would be my sister Sonu Kakkar and my brother Tony Kakkar. I have seen and been inspired by Sonu a lot. If you talk about my personality and how to live life, my brother Tony has taught me all this. They are my heroes and always will be.

What music dominates your own playlist?

I have a very eclectic music collection and it all depends on my mood or what I am doing. But right now, it is dominated by Arijit Singh songs. I think he is an immense talent.

What are your other big passions?

I love to design the outfits I wear. I give my own touch to most of what I wear. Ever since I was a child, I have been sewing, cutting and giving my own touch to dresses.

What inspires you today as an artist?

I think the kind of love I get from Nehearts (a name for the Neha Kakkar fans). I feel what keeps me going is their love. The way I see them getting inked for me, crying for me, doing crazy things for me and things that nobody does for anybody is such a blessing. My fans inspire me in so many ways and I love them all. My family, of course, also inspire me to live my life and follow my dreams.

Why do you love music?

Music is the most beautiful thing in the world. It’s a beautiful way to express your emotions. Even if I am sleeping, music is always playing in the background. Music is love.

Instagram: @nehakakkar & Twitter: @iamnehakakkar