RAHIM PARDESI TALKS ONLINE SUCCESS, LOYAL FANS AND HIS HIT SONG RANG

by ASJAD NAZIR

From comedy king to singing star.

COMEDY sensation Rahim Pardesi has entertained audiences with his unique brand of humour and in the process got himself more than 1.3 million subscribers on YouTube, but that wasn’t enough for the online star.

He surprised his legion of fans by showing off an impressive vocal ability, which has led to him launching a singing career that has got off to a great start.

Rahim has even bigger plans on the way and aims to build on the musical momentum generated by his summer hit Rang, which clocked up nearly three million views on YouTube in a month.

The Scottish star is also in-demand on the live circuit and has other projects on the way. Eastern Eye caught up with Rahim to talk about his comedy success, singing talent, future plans and more...

What first connected you to comedy?

I have always been the comedian in my family and with friends. I would always be the one playing pranks or making the jokes. I was always keen to make those around me laugh.

In my spare time I would make short videos and show them, and they would all encourage me to make more and put them on social media. That is where it all started I guess.

Did you ever imagine the videos would become so successful?

Oh my gosh, no not at all! I started the Facebook page just for fun and to keep it separate

from my personal profile. The response I had was just phenomenal!

I really wasn’t expecting that level of appreciation. People were sharing the videos and making them go viral.

Where do you draw your comic inspirations from?

My inspirations come from various aspects. Some of it comes from my own experiences with people in Pakistan and some from scenarios I am sure we are all familiar with.

I am very observant, so I can say I have seen many situations which have given me inspiration to create something from it.

Are any of your characters based on real people?

(Smiles) My characters are not entirely based on real people. You could say I have taken bits of personas and moulded characters of my own.

With each character, I’d say more than one person would come to mind in terms of similarities to real people in my life.

What made you go from comedy to music?

I’ve always had a keen interest in all aspects of performing. In my teen days, my dream was to be a Bollywood actor! Singing and dancing is something I have done from a young age and enjoyed.

I was lucky the opportunity for singing came to me and I thought I would give it a try. The result is far more than what I could have ever imagined. I’m really happy with the way it all turned out.

You recently released the song Rang, which has been a big success. Musically, how much of a turning point has that been?

Rang has been a huge turning point for me. It gave me an opportunity to strengthen my vocals and has shown me a different side of things. I have learned a lot, from being involved during production and lyrics to recording.

It’s a feel-good track and something I would listen to myself. I was really satisfied with this song and I’m keen to continue.

Did you expect the song to get such a good reaction, and just how much has that success meant to you?

To some degree, I did expect a positive reaction, mainly from my YouTube followers, but the reaction was far better than anticipated. It was trending in many countries, including the UK.

I’m so pleased the way the song turned out and it just feels amazing that it’s been appreciated so much around the world.

Musically, what can we expect next from you?

I’m currently working on a few tracks. My next song is in the pipeline and will hopefully be coming out very soon. You will just have to keep watching to find out more.

Which of your unreleased songs are you most excited about?

I’m actually quite excited about my next track and will reveal more when the time is right. It’s different from Rang, but still quite catchy and groovy. I’m looking forward to the release and reactions of all my fans.

Who are your biggest musical influences?

I listen to all sorts of music, but my all-time favourites would be the likes of Kumar Sanu, Sonu Nigam and Atif Aslam, as they have all been great influences to me.

What music dominates your own playlist?

My own playlist is quite mixed, so you will find anything from hip-hop to dance on there. However I’m a big Bollywood fan, so I’m not going to lie, a majority of the songs will be soppy Bollywood and a few sad songs; I just love them.

Looking ahead, who would you love to collaborate with musically?

I would love to collaborate with The PropheC. I love his songs and he is a great singer with a superb voice. He has some powerful tracks. I’d enjoy collaborating with him very much.

You have done comedy and now music really well; do you have any other talents we don’t know about yet?

You never know. I like to work to the best of my ability in whatever I do and enjoy trying new things. There is always room for more, so you will just need to stay tuned in to see.

You are multi-talented, but what is the master plan going forward?

There are a few things going on at the moment aside from the music side. I am also planning a tour and working on an upcoming television film too.

In terms of comedy, who is the funniest person you know in real life?

I would say that has to be my dad. He is a very jolly person and always makes me laugh. I guess I get my funny side from him.

Are you under pressure to be funny in real life?

No, not at all! As I said earlier, it is always me between my family friends that jokes about. It’s part of me and who I am; I just like to see others smiling and happy.

What are your big passions away from work?

I’m really passionate about sport and keeping fit. I’m a regular gym goer and love playing football too, which I do a couple of times a week.

Tell us something about you that not many people know?

I’m actually quite shy in real life, especially with new people. Although I like to joke about, I can be very quiet too.

Tell us something about you that not many people know?

I’m actually quite shy in real life, especially with new people. Although I like to joke about, I can be very quiet too.

You have very loyal and dedicated fans; how much do they mean to you?

Yes, my fans are very important, they are the reason I am here today. I wouldn’t have as much success and drive without all these guys around.

My fans give me such great support. It’s amazing when somebody says I was having a bad day and watching your video changed that.

What is your biggest driving factor today?

My biggest driving factor is exactly what I’ve just mentioned previously about changing someone’s day. Knowing that there are people who are in some serious situations and they forget all their worries by watching my videos motivates me.

That alone is enough drive to continue to make people laugh and smile. Even with my music, the feedback from my fans was amazing.

Finally, why do you love music?

Music is something I have been around all my life. I’ve always listened to music since I

have been a child; there’s a song for every mood and it’s a part of my life.

I’ve thoroughly enjoyed making music, which has given me a new love for it too.