The Manny of steel

NEWCOMER KOONER SOARS WITH HIT TRACK

ONE of my favourite British bhangra anthems of the year has been Mere Vargi, which is the latest song from hit-making music producer PBN. Although there is another standout turn from world-class singer Raj Bains. What I love most about Mere Vargi is the incredible vocals of newcomer Manny Kooner.

I think the Wolverhampton-based singer is one to watch and destined for big things. I caught up with the Manny to find out more about her and the new song.

When did you first get connected to music?

No one in my family has ever been part of the music industry so I’ve never been pushed to pursue this career. For years I have sung to my friends and family and they encouraged me to continue and consider taking it on professionally. That is when I thought to myself, “I want this,” especially with the support of my parents, sisters and brothers.

Who were your biggest musical influences growing up?

I don’t really have one favourite, but I root for legends such as Babbu Mann, Noor Jehan, Sardool Sikander, Surjit Bindrakhia and Naseebo Lal. In recent times I have been inspired by a few new artists like Nimrat Khaira and The Nooran Sisters.

What led you towards collaborating with PBN?

His reputation. He has dominated the UK Punjabi music scene for nearly a decade now. I feel privileged to have been given the opportunity to work with him.

What was the experience of recording the song Mere Vargi like?

Amazing! Recording in an actual studio was very overwhelming and at some point, didn’t feel  real. Overall it was a really great experience.

What has the response been like?

It has been lovely, especially knowing that people appreciate the work we’ve put into the song. It’s great to see the support given worldwide.

How do you generate the power in your voice?

I seriously don’t know. I just sing from the heart and with passion.

Is this the type of music you want to do in the future?

Yes, definitely. I have enjoyed doing Mere Vargi and would love to do plenty more traditional Punjabi style songs.

What can we expect from you?

Definitely more music releases and hopefully live performances.

Who would you love to work with?

Anyone who would love to work with me. People who will admire my talent, support me and make it an amazing experience for me, just like PBN.

What is your favourite track?

I don’t really have a favourite track to be honest, but you would catch me singing SP Rank or Salute Wajde or some songs sung by the great Nooran Sisters.

Tell us something about you people don’t know.

I absolutely love spending time with my friends and family. I love my soaps, reality TV shows and makeup.

What are your passions away from music?

I’m a qualified beautician, so I’m carrying out beauty treatments.

What kind of music dominates your collection?

I don’t think any other music can beat bhangra. You can never get over these tracks.

Would you ever go on to a reality TV show?

I don’t think I would, but who knows? Maybe.

What does performing live mean to you?

I have not performed live just yet, but I would say I am excited to perform live if I ever get the opportunity to do so.

What inspires you?

Hard working people that have started from scratch and become very successful.

Have you made a master plan?

Not at all, I take every day as it comes. Trust Waheguru ji to direct me to the right path and support me all the way.

If you could learn an instrument what would it be?

Definitely the harmonium.

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

I would ask Jyoti (Nooran Sisters), where she gets all the power in her voice from because she is amazing.

Why do you love music?

It makes me happy and gives me peace.If for any reason I feel down, tired or upset it makes me feel alive.

Why should we pick your latest track?

Because like every other artist I have also worked very hard to be what I am today and with your support I could only get better and better so please do pick this track up and keep supporting. Thank you