VIVA LA MUSICA

CWG

2010-09-24T00:34:00.000-07:00

Who is anyone to tell A R Rahman that the CWG theme is not good enough? You serious?

Honestly, it's a plea to be recognized internationally by the people who asked for the creation of the song.

Surprise Surprise

2010-09-15T00:27:00.000-07:00

I have not posted anything here for the longest time. I have news though.

So, I met A R Rahman! I didn't say anything because I couldn't find the voice to. He signed my favorite album of all time: Bombay.

I'm so damn excited. I will post how the Bay Area concert went and how exactly the signing unfolded.

Thanks to everyone's prayers, I feel great.

Wouldn't It Be Nice?

2009-09-19T01:22:00.000-07:00

One of my dreams in this lifetime is to find someone who enjoys Rahman's music as much as I do, if not more. By this, I mean someone in my direct life. Sure, in today's day and age, any two people can discuss just about any topic through various mediums like the internet or through mobile phone. I'm not talking about that. I am talking about a one-on-one human connection; face-to-face.

When a new album releases, I would take my album and visit the friend's house and we would listen to it together. How beautiful would that be?

We would look forward to his local concert so eagerly together. We would purchase our tickets and revel in our accomplishment. How great would that be?

We would discuss on and on about the use of instruments, tones, melodies, and their Godly connections but would not make any sense as any words for him fail to fully capture true feelings. How amazing would that be?

God, if you are listening up there (which I am sure you are), please help me find that person. Now, if it's the best thing for me, I don't know. Obviously you know better, God. So, if it is possible, help a sister out!

Let's Swim Into the Blue

2009-09-09T22:52:00.000-07:00

Mehekte gulzaron mein hum, chamakte sitaaron mein hum, behekte angaaron mein hum, lehekte hawaaon mein hum. Why? Because the music of Blue has released.

It seems as if ages have passed since something new by A R Rahman. No worries though, I have so many old gems to dwell on.

Regardless, this is no review for Blue. I haven't even heard all of the songs yet. But what a gift! Eid is coming up so soon and it has been one busy and tiring Ramadan. Nothing better to reward myself with than purchasing the album. I guess I will wait for Ramadan to end as the fruit of my sacrifice will be much sweeter.

Until later, enjoy the music of life my friends. Have a great rest of Ramadan and Eid mubarak.

You Don't Need Ears To Hear A Melody

2009-03-20T02:58:00.002-07:00

Time and time again I find myself left mesmerized by his tune. I can hear it deep in the corners of silence. I follow the flute as it plays a game of hide and seek with me. Down the dark brick-walled alley, I follow the turns in the dirt path splashing puddles as I go.

Silence----- I stop, and then the beat starts again.

My instinct tells me to speed up as the tune, along with me, decides to quicken. With my eyebrows arching and my sight sharpening, I remind myself that I can find it; I will find it. Now, almost running, I turn only to arrive at a choice of two different paths; one left and one right. I hear it, I know I do. But which direction is it coming from? Which direction do I go? Quick, I must choose! I hear it ringing ever so slightly from the left, no, wait, from the right. Wanting to give up, I close my eyes and raise my head toward the sky. With arms wide open, I take in a deep breath to find myself surrounded by light, bright light. Wait, I've found it! I've found the tune, I hear it blasting, I see it sparking. It is getting louder and even louder. The thumps are matching my heartbeat? The strings are flowing with my breath. It's in me! It's in my heart. It is spilling out of my heart.

(Looking left and right, we should never forget the only way is forward; the only way to go is up.)

God creates ways and paths for us to understand life. For each and every person the path and time is different. For some, it does not even exist. For them, life is meant to continue astray. Many a time, the right mixture of events create a sort of combustion or a sudden chain reaction in which the answers reveal themselves in front of our naked eyes. What does it mean to understand life? Is there a definite answer to understanding it let alone a definite answer to life itself? To understand life is to feel it. It is to feel the grandeur all the way from birth to death and even after and even everything in between. Life is in the smallest of all happiness, in the largest of all tragedy. To feel it is to live it and love it. And it is to take care of it, protect it and to give it. To understand life you have to find it. How you do, well, that is up to you.

The tune of Saathiya, along with a number of events in my time, helps me continuosly find life.

Can't Get You Outta My Head

2009-03-13T00:04:00.000-07:00

Hey, I'm still alive?!? It has been such a long time since I posted last and so much has happened!

1. Yuvvraaj was released

2. Ghajini was released

3. Slumdog Millionaire soundtrack was released

4. Connections released

5. ARR nominated for and wins first Critic's Choice Award

6. Delhi-6 was released

7. Nominated for and won first Golden Globe Award

8. Nominated for and won first BAFTA Award

9. Nominated for two Academy Awards

10. Performs on The Tonight Show With Jay Leno

11. ARR article in Rolling Stone magazine
12. Performs his two nominated songs at the Oscars ceremony

13. ARR wins two Oscars !

14. Performs on the Oprah Winfrey Show

15. Pussycat Dolls do a remix of the Oscar-winning song Jai Ho

16. ARR appears in an Akon music video titled Beautiful

The possibilities are unlimited! (I hope I did not miss anything in the list.)

I've been going through an emotional craze these past few months. There is simply too much to say and too much I have felt to document it all here.

The album releases were great because every album introduced some awesome, unquestionable music but the greatest moment of all for me was watching the Critic's Choice Awards. I believe my father, mother, and I had just finished watching one of my favorite television shows, The Office, when my mother asked me to change the channel because she wanted to just catch a glimpse of the award show. As soon as I changed the channel, the music award was being announced starting first with the announcement of the nominees. She looked at me as we learned it was the musical category and I said to her, "I don't think he's nominated." Actually, looking back, I have no idea why I thought that. When the presenters read off the nominees and announced ARR as the winner, my mother and I clapped like crazy people. I turned to look at her and said to her, "I don't think he's gonna be there." And then!! I don't know exactly what happened, not sure if this was a dream or reality but he started walking towards the stage to collect his award. What?!? Really?!? My reaction was limited to screaming and pointing at the television screen. I honestly could not believe what the hell was going on. I guess that's what being speechless is like. Whatever it was, I thought about that moment for the rest of the night and couldn't stop! I felt exactly like what ARR said during one of his award acceptance speeches, "Unbelievable."

I went into my room that night in simple amazement. I couldn't digest what had happened. I went straight to the video that had been posted capturing that moment. I watched it again. I cried. I began to cry thinking of the long journey; his long journey. I thought of my long journey which is nothing compared to his. The journey of listening to the music and evolving into a completely changed and grown person. When I see him, every moment, every single moment flashes across my eyes. The songs, the scenes, the performances, my feelings, they flash so fast that I cannot simply reach out my hand and grab one. There are too many and as I reach to grasp them, I cannot get a hold. Or is it that I grab too many? Whatever it is, I enjoy it. The feelings that I have and the emotion after emotion that I go through, witnessing and accounting his journey as well as mine, is one of the most beautiful experiences of my lifetime. If never anything else, no one can take this away from me.

These past few months have been extremely exciting. I think I've felt a few heart attacks along the ride. I'm rather sure I've increased my blood pressure more than once. Most of all, I'm completely sure, regardless of other factors, I've prolonged my life because I have been so happy. All by the grace of God and everything else in life, I am so happy. Thank you so much for everything.

A R Rahman, wherever you are, all I can do is shrug my shoulders and wonder how God ever gifted you and your music to me.

My Zune, My Baby

2008-06-06T14:47:00.001-07:00

So a few months back my brother bought me an early birthday present. I was rather surprised but rather happy. He bought me a Microsoft Zune 30GB. My SanDisk Sansa had broken down a couple of months prior and my brother knew I was looking for a new mp3 player but never got around to purchasing one. Little did I know, my worries were soon to be over.

I'm glad he bought me the Microsoft Zune because I was actually looking at various other SanDisk players in the market. I probably never would have thought of the Zune had this decision been left completely up to me. I am still a fan of SanDisk devices but now I am even a bigger fan of the Zune. My Zune, in particular, is one of the older versions, as it was some of the last few being sold but I have no problems with that, I love it dearly. I love the features, the colors, and the sound. It took a while to get used to the fact that I don't have a microphone on my device anymore and the fact that my 30GB player is much larger in size compared to the Sansa. I also increased my file capacity by 28GB! Damn!

One rather important detail I forgot to mention earlier is that there is a feature to name your device once one sets up the software. I named my device DUDE ARR, ahhah. I love the name or word, or whatever you want to call it, Dude and of course, my musical inspiration's name had to be included, hence ARR.

I must say, I love my Zune very much. I have never been a fan of the iPod except for its design and overall visual appeal. Do not misunderstand, I am not bashing it, to anyone who owns it, happy iPodding! I was actually looking into the SanDisk Fuze which is a rather new device but then I would be getting a much lower capacity for a higher price. If not the SanDisk, I was also looking at the new Samsung players as they have built-in speakers. They also had lovely designs. I have nothing to regret now, I find my Zune very lovely, :) .

April Showers Bring May Flowers

2008-05-28T23:07:00.000-07:00

KABHI KABHI ADITI - RASHID ALI

There is a lot to be impressed by in this song. It's sheer simplicity is the aspect that carries it through. The singing is superb and so is the guitar. My two favorite parts: "Hey Aditi, hasde hasde hasde hasde hasde hasde tu zara," and minutes 1:47-1:52, simply amazing. For some nonapparent reason I am reminded of the title song of Saathiya with this one. It is definitely not a bad thing and nor is it a comparison. Kabhi Kabhi is just simply great and fun loving.

JAANE TU MERA KYA HAI - RUNA RIZVI

"Jaana, dil jaane, kaise tuna na jaana, ke pyar yehi hai, yeh jaane tu ya jaane na." I absolutely love this part, classic.

PAPPU CAN'T DANCE - BLAZE, MOHD ASLAM, TANVI, ANUPAMA DESHPANDE, BENNY DAYAL, DARSHANA, SATISH SUBRAMANIUM

This Pappu guy sure does seem interesting. What is more interesting is the song about Pappu. I absolutely, horribly love this song. I love dancing to it, I love repeating the lines, "Pappu can't dance saala, haan Pappu naach nahi sakta." It is definitely an odd and very different song but it is extremely catchy. The remix version is even the more exciting. I feel that remixes usually are not as exciting but this one is a must listen. Nice pace and very danceable.

NAZREIN MILAANA NAZREIN CHURAANA - SWETHA BHARGAVE, NARESH IYER, DARSHANA, BENNY DAYAL, TANVI, SATHISH CHAKRAVARTHEY, ANUPAMA DESHPANDE

This song is definitely a feel good song. It would fit in perfectly with walking down the street or just sitting around with a group of friends and humming the song to a friend strumming the guitar. Very simple and nothing less than elegant. Very nice.

JAANE TU MERI KYA HAI - SUKHWINDER SINGH

The situation in this song is very deep as it is with the previous version. I admire deep and tragic songs very much just like I am totally feeling this one. I am not exactly a depressed sort of person but somehow I just feel like I can relate. That is exactly the magic of Rahman though. I feel like I can be this guy or the girl in the other version. When one's heart is put into the work, it will never go unrecognized or unfelt.

TU BOLE, MAIN BOLOON - A R RAHMAN

Yes, yes, yes, it is sung by the man himself. The jazz is simply amazing. When I listen to other composers, it feels as if I am listening to the same styles over and over again. BUT, when I hear songs like this, it makes me wonder and question, how does Rahman even know about this? I know, I know, it is very wrong to question him but he never fails to amaze me. Very, very nice.

KAHIN TO - VASUNDHARA DAS, RASHID ALI

The best for the last, eh? Of course. I am not sure how this song ends up in the playlist on the CD as I haven't purchased it yet, but I must say, if the other songs were great, this song is greater than the greatest great. It is too good. Hands down, I love singing this song (I am not too bad it either, *wink*). Hahaha, just for laughs. I am impressed with the longing that I sense in Ali's voice, it gives the song its desired tone. Das has merely a few lines still she impresses with such little.

My relationship with Rahman can be summed up with this one line : "Kahin to, kahin to, hai nasha, teri meri har mulaqaat mein." Not the literal mulaqaat, but I am sure you know what I mean.

So, jaane tu ya jaane na, yeh album bahaut changi hai yaar. Sunna zaroor!

sunke humne saari peelee haseen

2008-05-08T23:05:00.000-07:00

Whenever in doubt regarding true love, close your eyes, spread your arms wide, and open your ears. If you can hear the flutes of Saathiya, love has captured. Love has grasped onto your mind, body, and soul. It will not let go, ever. As the notes fluctuate, it is as if rather the strings of the heart are doing so. Standing there still, with arms wide open, and breathing in the passionate air is as if someone is pouring colors over your very existence. Saathiya is the justification of love. Saathiya, eternal like love, will conquer. The unknowing ask for signs. This cadence is the ultimate sign, the intimate sign, for now, love isn't love anymore, it is better. It has progressed into heavier subsistence. Go ahead, try hard and strong, for this actuality with neither budge nor ever spare.

naghme hi naghme hai jaagti soi fizaaon mein

2008-01-18T12:30:00.000-08:00

I have made a deal with myself not to listen to the songs of Jodhaa Akbar in entirety until I get my hands on the CD itself. I have heard the promos and viewed most of the trailers but I really do want to leave an element of surprise as nothing holds better quality than the original album. I have heard it is out in NJ and a few other states. I really do hope it is out in California now.

Long Live ARR

JUNE 2ND - Judgement Day

2007-09-27T01:36:00.001-07:00

It was a little bit more than one year ago when I first heard about A R Rahman's North American tour. I was ridiculously excited. Little did I know that this dream was soon to be over. I remember checking the tour site for updates weekly, nothing ever changed though. The information was never updated. "Dates coming soon!" What the hell does that mean? Does that mean tomorrow? Does it mean next week? Well, it was more like a year. A long long long year. But how could I have known, I didn't know whether the tour would ever come around.

APRIL 2007

To my surprise I finally read of Rahman's North American tour. Goodness, I really cannot explain what I felt at that moment. An adrenaline rush would be expressing it correctly. The date for the Bay Area concert was June 2nd, 2007. I was initially disheartened because near those dates my father wanted me to visit some family in Dallas, TX where my cousin was having a graduation party. So, to say honestly, I had given up hope. But that obviously wasn't the biggest obstacle. The bigest obstacle would be having to convince my father to let my mother and I attend the concert in the first place, Texas or no Texas.

One afternoon as I came home from school, my mother told me of a phone call that literally breathed new life into my lungs. A phone call that changed everything from then on. It was my mother's good friend. She wasted no time on the phone and came out directly saying, "There is a big group of musicians coming to perform in Oakland, do you want to go?" My mother asked who exactly and she replied, "A R Rahman." I couldn't believe what my mother was telling and jumped out of my seat screaming yes.

Well as they say, the rest is history. I didn't actually think it was reality until I had the ticket in my hand.

JUNE 2007

The goal was to get to the Oracle Arena, Oakland, California by 6:00 p.m. when the gates were to be open. This in particular was just too exciting to explain. Just the fact that I was going to the concert was an honor. It didn't matter if I had missed the show in its entirety, having the chance to go was huge. As soon as we got to the venue, we located the food stands. I know right? How could we think of food at a time like this? HAHHA, but we did have to last another six plus hours. Although it is highly arguable that I could survive without food and on A R Rahman's music alone.

The concert began a bit late. I'm guessing Rahman was praying the Maghrib prayer before starting. The opening piece was Jaage Hain from the film Guru. Chitra came in singing her lines beautifully. ------ Then Rahman entered. At first it was as if I didn't believe it. I didn't want to believe it. This couldn't be real. But then, it hit me and my eyes teared up. I thought to myself that this is it, either because I knew the show had finally started or because I knew this was the beginning of something great and heavy that would leave my life changed.

I know I could list the details of the concert like what songs were played but that would be too literal for me. I really don't want to mention anything that many of you have read so much of already. Yes, he played Kehna Hi Kya and yes he played Chanda Re. But I don't think that really explains much. As many of you may have figured out from reading my previous blogs, I don't like to be too literal. I like depth and basing anything and everything on intense emotions and feelings whether or not I have words to describe them.

So what happened between Jaage Hain and the end happened too quickly for me. I can remember as everyone was heading out of the arena screaming, "Come back!" while facing the stage simultaneously. HAHA. I could say that I remember everything about the concert very clearly but that would be an overstatement. I could say that I remember nothing but then that would be a understatement. The truth of the matter is, what I remember cannot be described in words. But then again, isn't saying that I can't describe it a lame excuse? I could try, right? Lets just say... I've never danced so much in my life, and in public at that! I have never clapped so much that my hands hurt the next day. My throat never hurt so much from screaming like a maniac. Although these are only the literal aspects, inside me was an ongoing battle of how I would be able to savour this moment in my life in the best possible way. Let me tell you one thing, I was wrong to ever debate this with myself.

Should I take pictures or write the song sequence? Should I make a video of the performances? Or should I memorize who sang what song?

NONE OF THE ABOVE.

A R Rahman has this way of making his way into one's heart, mind, and soul. You don't need to work to savour the moment, he savours it for you.

None the less, I did pictures, I mean, hey, I went to the damn Rahman concert! How awesome is that?!?

I'm not going to explain detail by detail what happened but I would like to share some highlights of the show that I find very noteworthy.

HUMMA HUMMA - Rahman says he doesn't dance and nor would we, the audience, want to see him dance. I beg to differ. I swear what I saw on this song was him dancing. This wasn't the usual head bopping or moving with the flow of the music. I swear this was dancing. The music stopped near the end of this song and Rahman and Blaaze came to front of the stage and started repeating the chorus, "humma humma." They even pointed the mic towards the crowd and encouraged everyone to sing with them. The crowd sang and clapped simultaneously. It was freakin amazing how everyone was singing together al at once.

CHAIYYA CHAIYYA - What can I really say about this song? THE WHOLE ARENA WAS DANCING! It was so damn amazing. A geat feeling, seriously.

SIVAMANI SOLO - This guy has serious talent. There are percussionists and then there is Sivamani. Near the end of his solo, he played his piece in such a way in which he audience joined in and clapped along with the beats. It wasn't really a solo anymore. It had transformed into a whole new routine in which about 16,000 people were involved!

JAAGE HAIN - This piece was too emotional for me. Not the fact that this song is very moving or the lyrics are beautifully written. It was more for the fact that this began my transformation. It was the initiation of what was ahead in the concert and in life.

THE HIMESH JOKE - Rahman is always said to be soft spoken. That is true, none the less, this guy has a great sense of humor. I could repeat the joke, but you guys probably already know what I am speaking of. Hahhaa, it was awesome.

VANDE MATARAM - The essence of this performance can be summed up very simply for me. This is probably the only time, and I repeat, the only time where I disregarded the fact that I am not an Indian and left all divisions, categorizations, and other labels behind. At that moment, all I was was an A R Rahman fan. I sang Vande Mataram from the bottom of my heart. Although it is the anthem, the literal meaning of the lyrics talk about the mother, so this way, I didn't hold back to sing along with the crowd.

DIL SE - There is something about the way Rahman sings Dil Se that I quite haven't felt in his other singing ventures. I'm not saying others aren't as good, but for me personally, I have an on going love affair with the song and the way he renders the words DIL SE RE. If the piece contained these three words alone and no other instrumentals or lyrics were added on, I'd still say it is one of the greatest compositions ever created. There is nothing more that I believe in and live by than these three words. Many people think of "I love you," as the three words. I say, forget "I love you." DIL SE RE. Life, love, and A R Rahman started and ended with these three words.

It is actually almost the end of September and I went to the concert in the beginning of June. It is a shame I took so long to write this up. Better late than never right? Besides, I can't just write about something this grand without any inspiration or timing. But now, the timing is just write, I mean right. And as I conclude, I want to leave you with the teaching of Socrates. The life which is unexamined is not worth living. As odd as it sounds, Rahman and his music has forced me to go through somewhat of a transition. Life and love and happiness had different meanings prior to him. After him, it has become a whole new world, a whole new realization.

Here is the link to the photos I took. They didn't come out as I had wanted them to for I hadn't learned how to focus the camera, :) silly me.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/tanyaa/sets/72157600310758878/

2007-05-28T01:23:00.000-07:00

Five more days until the Rahman concert.

Until then, I would like to share a stanza from a song whose lyrics get to me everytime.

Waise to har kadam,
Milenge log sanam,
Milega sacha pyar muskil se.
Dil ki dosti,
Khel nahi koi,
Dil se dil hai milta yaar mushkil se.

I Got...

2007-04-28T22:12:00.000-07:00

tickets to the Rahman concert!!!!!!!

A Picture Is Worth More Than A Thousand Words

2007-04-20T14:09:00.000-07:00

I would like to share with you all a very recent picture that I drew of A R Rahman. Hope you all enjoy it, it somewhat differs from the original picture though. Haha, but I did try my best.

Vaada Vaada Vangikoda

2007-04-10T11:32:00.000-07:00

What comes to your mind when you hear the word SIVAJI? For me. it is the thought of how damn cool this word sounds. Whatever this Sivaji is, I want to be it. You guys can obviously get the vibe that I don't know what it means. Haha. It is a pretty nice title though. That's not not all that comes with the package though. Two words, GREAT SONGS. Initially, I was bit confused but hey, no one knows what to expect from Rahman. And trust me, by no means does this say that I don't like the album. I love it, and I haven't listened to aything else besides Sivaji since the day it was released which is great because I still hadn't gotten off of the high that was Guru. Well, enough time has elapsed for me to express my feelings on the songs but let me also add, feelings for music and art can constantly change, so no way are they near what they might be 20 days from now.

SIVAJI
(Sorry, I just had to type it again, and say it my mind again)

1. BALLEILAKKA - SPB, REIHANA, BENNY

So, I'm reading, this is the intro song for Rajini? (And by the way, I would like to know why this Rajini guy is so famous?)

Love, love, love the Sadugudu and 100 mph parts!
Nice percussion. I'm a sucker for percussion.
Shennai is amazing.
SPB sings with great enthusiasm.
Tempo.
Other vocals add a nice touch to the song.
"Satunnu Sollu."

2. STYLE - BLAZE, TANVI, RAGS, SURESH PETERS

Now this is what you call experimentation. Different to say the least!
When the tempo increases, love it.
I like the way they pronounce style. It adds STYLE!

3. VAAJI VAAJI - HARIHARAN, MADHUSHREE

What can I say about this one.
My favorite of the album
"Ambal, Ambal."
The entire tune!!!
I read the intro to the song was Buddhist music? Well whatever it is, it's great.
"Vaaji, Vaaji, Vaaji, En Jeevan Nee Sivaji."
Couldn't this song be longer? Haha.
I CAN'T WAIT TO SEE THE PICTURIZATION!

4. ATHIRADEE - A R RAHMAN, SAYONARA

Let me start with this:
"Rathee, thee, thee, jaga jogi jogi jogi."
Repeating words or sounds have never been so amazing, apart from Sadugudu of course.
Rahman's voice!
Rahman's voice!
Rahman's voice again!
Nice arrangements, in the beginning of the song, I thought of Boom Boom from Boys.
Nice job from Sayonara, she almost makes it sound foreign or American.

5. SAHANA - UDIT NARAYAN, CHINMAYI

This was probably the song I was confused about.
Even though I love Rahman to death, If I say great to every one of his songs, people might just preceive me to be unrealistic. And public opinion or not, I don't like being unrealistic.
This doesn't say that I hate the song.
I just don't know where I stand on it.
Positives: The intro without the music, females vocals, and Rahman's alaap.
Negatives: Athough I'm fond of Udit Narayan's voice, just not in this song, and I feel that it sounds 1990 ish although thye may be nothing wrong with that.
I think I'll just leave it at that.

6. THE BOSS - BLAZE, NARESH IYER, RAQUEEB ALAM

I think the title of this entry alone expresses my feelings on the song.
Different!
I believe it is techno? Nice.
They mentioned Power Rangers! I didn't know they aired that show in India.
I used to love the show as a kid.
Nice title for the song by the way.
If I were to give this album a title it would be, Rahmanji: The Boss.

7. SAHARA - VIJAY YESUDAS, GOMATHISHREE

I'm certainly not confused about this song.
Love it, love it, love it.
The best part in the entire album = the female vocals in this song, start to finish.
How does Rahman compose stuff like that? It is beyond anything I will ever know.

I don't like the fact that people are calling Balleilakka the typical Rajini song. I don't have much to say about it because I don't know Rajini, but if people truly appreciate Rahman, why would they call it that? I read it on some forums, but oh well.

You know what adds to the whole Sivaji experience? It is the cover art of the album. It iis a great take on it, though not completely inspired. They use the Andy Warhol style of creating art. Andy Warhol used to take the same picture and use different-bright colors and rearrange them on different canvases. Nice, is the word I use for it.

And also, when people first heard the style song, they compared it to something of 50 Cent like. Dude, do you even know what 50 Cent sounds like? Not like style.

Long live the boss!

Dhoom Dhadhaka Karta Che!

2007-01-15T19:24:00.000-08:00

I watched Guru! What a movie. I just want to present my initial thoughts. This is no in depth review or analysis.

Songs were picturized amazingly.
I wish the songs were so much longer.
Mayya Mayya and Barso Re had awesome visual appeal.
Acting was superb.
Great plot.
Cinematography and camera work were extraordinary.
BACKGROUND SCORE!!! :)
The songs were like a dream.

GREAT movie.

Song Wars - Episode I

2006-12-30T20:00:00.000-08:00

First of all, let me begin with saying that the eight compositions that I picked are in no particular order, and, by just stating the obvious, that I really love A R Rahman. Duh.

BOMBAY THEME

I didn't really like instrumentals a while back. I've changed my mind. I remember this peice so well. My mother and I were driving home from the store when I was much younger. We were alongside the hill near our home which overwhelmingly reminds me of the hauting sounds of the flute. Damn that flute. I think I fell in love with the flute after this song. My passion was secured after the flute piece in the western style of Ishq Bina. I don't know the names of the musicians who did their part in this piece, but I would like to say thanks to all of them for making this indescribably beautiful. The one word that comes to my mind when I hear this is HAUNTING. It's one of those pieces that can make you cry without you even being upset. The truth is, if you thought anything I said previously sounded like gibberish, then your'e probably right. I really don't know what to say for this. I'm sorry if I let anyone down. It's beautiful.

This is one of those pieces that can make you fall in love with just about everything.

Song Wars

2006-12-29T19:02:00.000-08:00

A while back, A friend asked me to elaborate on eight great compositions of A R Rahman. I think I might just do that. Right now I won't mention any bit on why I picked these exact pieces but will only name them. Without stalling any further, let me begin.

1. Bombay Theme

2. Chaiyya Chaiyya/Thaiyya Thaiyya

3. Anbe Aaruyire

4. Dil Se Re/Sandhosha Kannire

5. Tu Hi Re/Uyire Uyire

6. Chaand Aaya/Dhandhiya Aattamum

7. Pachai Nirame/Saathiya

8. Ale Ale

Delicate Thoughts

2006-11-30T21:07:00.000-08:00

I remember the first review I ever did on an A R Rahman album. Not the details but rather the name of the album and what caused me to write it. It was Yuva. I recall actually falling for the man with the name A R Rahman in 2004. Before that, I only loved the tunes to Bombay, Roja, Dil Se, Taal, and Hindustani. I really didn't know and care much about who composed them. Maybe I was much too young. Now, not a day passes by where I don't think about him or the music that stirs in my soul, the music that flows through my veins and inches into the very corners of my body overdosing me with an identifiable ecstacy. With every different piece, there's a whole new excitement, pleasure, and curiosity. When I watch him sing, it's as sweet as when a baby first begins to speak those tiny-innocent yet powerful words. I don't know what it is. I didn't think I would ever feel this way about a celebrity. A celebrity! I've addressed this before. Young girls in elementary school were crazy after the Backstreet Boys and *NSYNC and Britney Spears to such extents that they joined fan clubs and bought magazines just because it included exclusive pictures of those artists. Later, as I grew older, I heard of legends like Tupac and The Beatles and Elvis. Now these were saints. Fans might as well have created shrines for these figures. Posters crowded their rooms, latest albums filled their CD players, and the lyrics never once left their mouths. What magic is must have been that was cast on these souls. Was it really magic or was it a passing trend(Backstreet Boys, NSYNC, Britney Spears)? Whatever it was, it sure occupied a lot of time. Well, it was nonsense to me. I didn't think being crazy about someone was justifiable.

We are sometimes proven wrong once a person comes along who forces us to change our ways, our beliefs and the little aspects in our very lives. Someone who not only forces us to change but rather forces us to want to change. Rahman came into my life maybe unexpectedly and unexpectedly has stayed in my heart for quite a while. And honestly, I don't mind him occupying this space. Go ahead, take my breath away! So now, where have I come? I'm in a fan club. Gosh, my playlist contains 100% A R Rahman. And his tunes never leave my lips. I have turned like those I once dreaded and questioned. There was this hindi movie that I watched over the summer in which the female protagonist asks the male protagonist while looking at an elderly couple, "What keeps them together so long?" He answers, ehsaas. I could care less that A R Rahman's music is different. The word is just too cliche for me. It's the ehsaas. It is the feeling that the melodies gives me. We, being human beings and a very curious species, try to find answers to everything. "It can be proven," we say. I tried that, it didn't work. Maybe there's some sort of chemical balance in the atmosphere in which Rahman composes. Maybe his studio has an exact amount of dust concentration which exists by the use of organic microfiber filters. Maybe, somewhere in New Zealand, a butterfly flaps it's thin wings whenever he sits to compose a song. No. It's none of the above. And honestly, who cares? He makes me feel great.

With Rahman and I, it's just not about the music anymore. With him, it's a whole other level of a much deeper connection.

P.S. : When ever I listen to his music late at night, I wonder how her creates such amazing tunes. I picture him sitting like this, in this very angle, composing away!

GURU

2006-11-23T18:37:00.000-08:00

As I walk around in college, from class to class, or from car to class or class to car, I see numbers of students listening to their mp3 players ( I'd rather not call them iPods, because I don't personally have an iPod, and I think my SanDisk player is much better than the iPod. A personal choice, that's all. Haha). So as I see these folks listening, I begin to wonder what exactly they're listening to. Is it rock, is it rap, is it alternative, or could it possibly or impossibly be A R Rahman? That's the question! Could it be A R Rahman?! But, the answer is, I don't know. Although, I know A R Rahman is also a personal choice and passion, I still tend to pity these people. They don't know what they're missing, or do they? Sometimes I want to be surprised. There's this guy in my history section who always walks to class with his iPod playing. He has the rockerish-rebel look, but I think to myself, just imagine if I were to borrow his headphones and listen to what he is listeing to and find A R Rahman. What would that be like? I would simply go crazy with excitement, ecstacy, get hyphy, whatever, but gosh would I be overwhelmed. Obviously, I feel this way about Rahman and obviously someone somewhere else has an obsession with another artist and that's absolutely fine. Just another Rahman fantasy of mine. Haha. I had this dream that I spotted A R Rahman randomly roaming the streets of California and with me I had my most valuable album cassette of Bombay with me which he ended up giving me an autograph on. Since the day I had the dream, I carry Bombay around with me to the places I go, hoping someday I will find A R Rahman and I crossing paths. Another Rahman fantasy of mine.

So GURU, We've all been waiting for this right? Correct! At least I know I have. And what a wait it has been. I finally bought my CD yesterday but have been listening to it for a week already. With Mani Ratnam as the director, we are in for a roller coaster ride for sure. With Gulzar in for the lyrics, I was much excited to hear and read Urdu lyrics because of Urdu being my mother tongue. So what about the music? Well, uhh, this is A R Rahman we're talking about. And by the way, let me confess here my love for Mani Ratnam, simply amazing.

1. BARSO RE - SHREYA GHOSAL, UDAY MAZUMDAR
The acoustic beginning! Shreya's singing!
Minutes 0:33-0:45, the transition from the live earthly instruments to the more modern techno beats. Simply awesome.
The percussion. More specifically, the flat percussion.
Congrats Gulzar sahab.
"Tu tu turu, tu tu turu." So cute yaar. I just love rain songs. I want to go and dance out in the rain.

2. TERE BINA - A R RAHMAN, CHINMAYI, MURTAZA, QADIR, DIALECT COACH: RAQEEB ALAM

Amazing, awesome, fantastic, fabulous, any and every other positive adjective that can be used to describe this song will do.
A R Rahman's singing!
Chinmayi's singing, double wow!!
The moment: Minutes: 3:19-3:49. It's complete bliss.
Rahman's alaap.
"Dum dara dum dara mast mast dara
Dum dara dum dara mast mast dara
Dum dara dum dum, humdum,
Bin tere kya jeena?"

3. EK LO EK MUFT - BAPPI LAHIRI, CHITRA, TANVI, SALONI, BONEY, JAIDEV

The drunken hyphyness. Haha.
" Meri gudiya, meri gudiya, Guruuuuu ki gudiya." Love it!
Nice playful lyrics.
Honestly, i was confused the first time I listened to it, then the second time around, I was stunned.
This is so Rahman. I'm loving it.
"Joyyen, joyyen, joyyen, joyyen."

4. MAYYA - MARYEM TOLLER, CHINMAYEE, KEERTHI, RANJIT BAROT, DIALECT COACH: DEVIKA

One word: seductive. Very seductive, not in particular to me, but to the guys, haha. But yea, it's a sensual song, and a pretty good one.
Nice Arabic touch. Rahman really knows the Arabian feel. Awesome.
My favorite part: "Ale ehe ehe ehe ehe." This part is so odd but I love it.
Maryem Toller's accent and singing. <3

5. AY HAIRATHE - HARIHARAN, ALKA YAGNIK, A R RAHMAN, ASLAM MOHAMMED

And Hariharan is back! Love this guy.
The accordian, yes, yes, love it.
The chorus, chashm-e-chasm-e nam.
Such a simple yet elegant work.
And let me mention again the Dum dara chorus! Amazing.

6. BAAZI LAGA - UDIT NARAYAN, MADHUSHREE, SWETHA, BHARGAVEE

At first, I didn't know what to think of this song. Is this Rahman?(I thought to myself.) After a few listens, I answered to myself, even this is Rahman.
He can even create a song that doesn't sound like a Rahman song.
This damn man surprises me to the point it's damn overwhelming. Haha.
Love the Dada parts!
This song would be lovely in a broadway musical!
" Oh chal ne de, chal ne de, paisa chale!"
Love the tune. Superb energetic singing.

7. JAAGE HAIN - CHITRA, A R RAHMAN, MADRAS CHORALE GROUP

Ok, I don't know if I have the right words for this song.
Love the choir, love the orchestra and strings.
THE MOMENT: When A R Rahman whispers, there are bagpipes in the background. Goodness, kill me now.
The choir is awesome. I love choirs now, I hope he would use them more often.
This choir and operatic feel reminds me of My Wish Comes True from Kisna which also has a choir ending. Loved it by the way.
This is by far my favorite from the album, although they are all gems.

Well honestly, Rahman ka to koi jawab hi nahi. Zabardast album, hit hai! How can I explain to anyone the joy of loving A R Rahman?

Seven Shades of Rahman

2006-11-04T20:19:00.000-08:00

Ancient Arabic literature classifies love into seven different shades...

HUB - their eyes meet, it is like a touch, a spark, Attraction.

UNS - the touch of the eyes was as if, it was infatuation.

ISHQ - the flame of her body is felt, his breath starts igniting, Love.

AQIDAT - Reverence, she touches him like a whisper, as if silence is mixed in her eyes, he prays down on the floor, a little consciously and a little unconsciously.

IBADAT - he is entangled in her path, entangled in her arms, Love turns to Worship.

JUNOON - his living is an Obsession, his dying is an Obsession, apart from this, there is no peace.

MAUT - let him rest in the lap of Death. Let him drown his body in her soul.

DIL SE - A journey through the seven shades...

I classify love into these seven shades...

HUB - 1995, driving down the isolated road looking atop the hill, the flute touches as a cool early winter breeze would, leaving everything in it's path a little changed and chilled and curious of what the rest of the season has in store. Attraction, Bombay Theme.

UNS - The touch of Urvashi was nothing less than an infatuation. Life began to take an easy policy.

ISHQ - The telephone rang, it's tone creating a severe burning sensation in my ear. The dhun started igniting passions that were once unknown. Love, Telephone Dhun.

AQIDAT - The soft beats of the tabla make their way into the heart almost silently. The tabla, sweeter than soft sugar but more sour than the taste of tamarind, is love, is reverence. Ishq Bina.

IBADAT - The beats, the tunes, the melodies, have seven colors. Your personality, purity, and style is of seven colors. Your soul, your life, my heart, is of seven colors. From your melody to mine, from the strings of your heart to mine, we are Satrangi. You, entangled with your passion, I, entangled with you. 2004.

JUNOON - You, without telling me, can to take me to any place far beyond my capacity. On one condition, you must smile. He who is under the shadow of love will have heaven beneath his feet. Love has found it's only home in you, in your tune. Being loyal has become a sort of obsession. How can I live without this obsession. Tu Bin Bataaye, Chaiyya Chaiyya, Tu Hi Re.

MAUT - Let die all other hatred and all other wordly obsessions, for you have helped me explore a beautiful new language. A new art of direction. This love, whether I realize it or not, has left me a changed person. The beginnings, only a soft winter breeze. The end, I know, if my faith is strong, will never come. The language of Tamil and the director Mani Ratnam.

DIL SE - A journey through the seven shades of falling in love with him and his music. Somewhere along the way, Dil Se Re has become the theme to my heart, life, and soul.

Theory

2006-10-18T21:38:00.000-07:00

It's been a while, thank God I'm back. I've missed this place. A sanctuary for my raging thoughts, some useless yet some productive.

So, what is it about certain genres of music or certain artists that make us human beings pick them as our favorites? Is it really the possibility that we chose a certain kind of music because we think that it's "different" than the rest? What's the basis of our decision? Or is it much like love, no analysis, only Dil Se? What attracts us to certain songs instantly while others take much time to grow? Well, I know exactly what you're thinking. Too many questions right? Well, I might just have answers. Of course these answers aren't really answers, they're merely opinions. Opinions that I have assumed to be correct. Which really doesn't make them correct, but hey being human, I tend to question things and have a desire to find answers.

No Prior Knowledge-Instant Phenomenon Theory: Let's see, the last song I fell instantly in love with would probably have to be Varaaga from Sangamam by A R Rahman. Could there be a mathematical pattern that make songs instantly click? Or is it a exact certain flow of hormones within us that create this liking? With no prior knowledge of what to expect from a song, in other words, never hearing the song before, Why do we, as they say, "fall in love at first sight?" or in this case at first hearing? It's definitely not a piece of music being reltively different. It's not being a song in a particular genre that you like. It's feeling. It's EHSAAS. No other answer comes as close to being IT than this one. It's actually pretty undesribable, i don't even know why I'm attempting to discover an answer. Oh and sorry if anything I said previously sound like a bunch of bull, I'm just writing as it comes.

As soon as we hear a song for the first time, it's the feeling that it gives us that makes it click. It's much of an overwhelming feeling. Usually when I enjoy a song on the first listen, I don't remember any of it as I finish it. It happens to me quite often. Then I hear it again, and I forget. Then again and it takes a number of times for me to remember exactly what was going on. But one thing is for sure, I'm in love. Don't know why, but yea we base it on feelings, emotional ones.

That being said, I would have to say my favorite genre fo music is qawwali/sufi. I'm not particularly sure why, but I just assumed that all qawwali is sung in the language of Urdu. All of the qawwalis I've heard have been in some form of Urdu and so I was surprised to hear the song Varaaga from Sangamam. This song was complete bliss at its first hearing. Only after this song, I discovered the film Monalisa and another I cannot remember also has qawwalis. So right now, I'm hyphy on Sangamam. What a superb album. Just when I think I have heard of Rahman's songs, I'm proven wrong once again. He amazes me. He overwhelms me, with love and magic. He creates tunes as if they were just made for me, as if I had dreames them to reality.

Love is ...

2006-08-09T18:16:00.000-07:00

Currently Listening To: Gopala Gopala - Humse Hai Muqabala

Love is a word that is very hard to define. It's kind of like music. In the WorldSpace ad, Rahman says that people ask him to define music. He doesn't have the correct answer, or maybe he has too many. I believe that this too is the case with love. There are so many different kinds of loves. Which one is real? Which one is an infatuation? Which one are we using for our own benefits? I don't know. I really don't care what anyone else says about love. I know it happens. I've come up with a simple answer for myself. The only thing after my religion and family that I know is true. Love is A R Rahman. It's the beautiful tunes that he creates. It is the Bombay Theme. It is dil se. The truth is, I really don't know much about this word "love." People have created so many odd atmospheres around this word that I just don't know if it really is what it is perceived to be. Love is an A R Rahman song.

I was reading one of my previous posts in which I posted a story of an arrahmanfans member who experienced people outside of the general fan club humming to Rahman's tunes. Well, now I would like to share my own experience. My brother, he hates Indian music and he hates Pakistani music. He's into the whole American rap scene. I wouldn't actually blame him, that is what we are faced with everyday. Whether it's during partying with our friends or just flipping through some local radio channels. I remember when I first bought the Lakeer album, I was obsessed with Nachley. I probably played it in the car or something when he heard it for first time. I thought nothing of it. It turns out a few days later he was listening to the song on his computer. Wow! I was surprised. Well, not really, we are talking about Rahmanic tunes. That's not all. Another time I asked my brother to play Fanaa on his new speakers. So he did. And to his surprise, not mine, he loved the song. Then, more recently, when I bought the Rang De Basanti album, I played Roobaroo and started humming it all the time. One day I caught him humming a tune that sounded all too familiar to me. I couldn't actually make out what he was humming. I knew it wasn't rap. Then it hit me! It was Roobaroo. Wow! This was amazing. For a person who hates desi music. He liked the tunes of A R Rahman. That's so cool.

Tears came into my eyes when I watched this video. It is very special.

Jillunu Oru Album

2006-08-03T12:20:00.000-07:00

Jillunu Oru Kaadhal or as known now, Sillunu Oru Kaadhal. I prefer the J over the S, it sounds so much more attractive. I have been waiting for this album so anxiously that I actually thought Aug 1st was Aug 2nd. In my eagerness I searched for the album a day early only to realize that it wasn't even the right date. It was quite hilarious when I figured it out. Anyways, I've heard the album a couple of times now and it is definitely not one of those that grow on you, rather it is onle of those albums that you're attracted to instantly. The sample songs created even more of a chaos. I had so many deep sighs of infatuations during certain parts of the songs that I will not miss to state them.

1. Kummi Adi - Dr. Siva Chidambaram, Swarnalatha, Naresh Iyer, Theni Kunjaramma, Vignesh, and Chorus

I love the chorus and the beats of the song especially when the female voice enters with the lyrics " Adi rasai dosa," sorry I'm not familiar with Tamil, haha and I know I totally put the wrong lyrics but thats how I interpreted them.
Fast paced.
Naresh Iyer's singing, superb.
Love the dhol.

2. Maricham - Carolisa, Mohamad Aslam, and Krishna

Powerful singing.
Different tune.
Deep sigh of infatuation: minutes 1:30 to 1:50. Love the part.
Very distinct and different type of song.
Love the whispers and slow singing near the end.
Strong but soft ending.

3. Jillunu Oru Kaadhal - Tanvi

Jazz, wow!
Infatuation: minutes 1:28 to 1:40, so jazzy and smooth.
Love the cat sounds. Haha.
Interesting lyrics.
Fun song, I don't even care what it's saying, very foot-tapping.
Interesting singing.
Love the ending without the music and Tanvi singing and the cat noise of course.

4. Munbe Vaa - Shreya Ghoshal and Naresh Iyer

Can one really get enough of this song?
Has there been anything more beautiful created?
"Rango-Rangoli." That's all you need to fall in love. Love this chorus.
The orchestra!
The bridge of the song is awesome.
I think I'm falling in love with Naresh Iyer. Superb voice. Great find Rahman Sahab.

5. New York - A R Rahman

Love this song to death.
Infatuation: In the the very beginning with Rahman ji humming.
The guitar is used magically. What can I say? I love it.
A R Rahman's voice has really matured. It's nice to hear him singing so beautifully.
Infatuation #2: During the first round of lyrics, the first time he sings "tanimai tanimai o" in the "o" when he dips his voice. Killer man.
The piano.
Rahman's voice is so lovely.
Love the chorus.

6. Majaa Majaa - S P B Charan ,Shreya Choshal

Very seductive. To my ears of course. Haha.
Slow, simple beat. Long, strong effect.
The beginning with " Mm mm mm" all broken up just like that. Very addicting.
Great singing.
Charan sounds so much like his father.
Even though it is in Tamil, I keep thinking that they are saying "aaja raja" haha. All of you Urdu/Hindi speakers would know what I mean.
Great song.

7. Machakari: Shankar Mahadevan and Vasundara Das

Goodness I love this song.
When I first heard the samples, this was my favorite.
I cannot pick a clear favorite now but I love this song so much.
The Moment: minutes 2:50 to 3:00 and again at 4:15 to 4:25. Love it too much.
Awesome singing. Very energetic.
Amazing fast beats. Layers of sounds and vocals.
Love all the background vocals.

I give it an 11/10. This album is so fresh, it's amazing. I wish much succes to A R Rahman for this album. I love it too much. Machakariis my pick. Oh and can I mention how much I love Surya too. Well, just go and buy it already!

I Don't Have A Title

2006-07-18T11:51:00.000-07:00

I have a feeling this is going to be a long entry.

One of the greatest things happened to me yesterday. I was just browsing through YouTube.com's group of A R Rahman Videos and I found this video titled Thenmerku. It was love at first sight. Well, love at first sound to be more exact. The video was cute but the song was too good to be true. I had never heard this song before yesterday but now I just cannot stop listening to it. And why should I? It's composed by the lovely Rahman. I'm just glad I started browsing through those videos. I also noticed this other song called Enna Solla Pogirai from the fil Kandukondein Kandukondein, this is an awesome song too. I enjoyed the video as well. I call yesterday a success.

I've been reading blogger's reviews on the performance of A R Rahman at Hollywood Bowl, and so far so good. It seems as if everyone enjoyed it, and to add ot that, most of the audience was non-desi. Nice job Rahman. I wish that I could have gone. Nothing in my family is done to the extreme, so I don't think anyone realizes my respect towards Mr. Rahman. My mother knows I admire him, but that is about it. You know, I always used to wonder during my elementary years, why everyone was obsessed with names like The Backstreet Boys or Metallica or Tupac. I mean I like their songs once in a while but nothing was ever to the limit in which my friends liked these artists. Posters all over their roooms, memberships in fan clubs and God knows what else. Now that I think about these things, I can only think of one person that I would dare to put a poster of up in my room. A R Rahman.

The other day I was watching the show YES DEAR. I just love that show. But anyways, one of the protagonists of the series finds an old list that he had created back during his hogh school years of things he wanted to do or things he wanted to accomplish before... you know...death. I guess, I don't really remember when but whatever. This also mae me realize that there is one thing I want to do before WHATEVER, and that is go to an A R Rahman concert. And if I am lucky, maybe I'll get to meet him in person. But going back to a reality check, I think a concert will do.

Don't get me angry, I might just ZIDANE you.

2006-07-10T21:15:00.000-07:00

I know there were over one billion people that watched the FIFA World Cup 2006 yesterday, Sunday, and all of you have different opinions on Zidane's charge. Personally here is my opinion on the whole issue. On Sunday, I was cheering for France. I was really upset to have seen them lose. I really do believe that they had an advantage and a chance to win. Then came Materazzi. I'm not going to accuse him of anything but if he did then he got what he deserved. Every bit of it. Even if it wasn't those racial comments, one could tell that Zidane was disturbed by his comments, whatever they were on. Materazzi deserved it. Honestly I must say, I was real proud of Zidane for head-butting Materazzi. Although if Zidane had stayed in the the match, I believe that France could have won without a doubt. Congratulations on winning the Golden Ball though.

<Best play ever.

Right Now...

2006-03-29T17:35:00.000-08:00

Right now I'm feeling like a little Oru Nanban from Enakku 20 Unakku 18. I've discovered it only recently but I cannot get enough of it friends.

Chaiyya Chaiyya Inside

2006-03-20T16:06:00.000-08:00

Yea, I understand I have not updated in a while. Honestly I had nothing much to say and I've been very busy. I don't even remember the last time I signed on to chat on the AIM messenger. Well, whatever. Now I'm waiting for the film Inside Man to release because as most of you know it has the song Chaiyya Chaiyya in it. I'm so excited to see the way they have incorporated this song into the film. As I read in the IMDB.com forum, people have already started tot ake notice of it.

In the San Jose Mercury News, an article was published two days before A R Rahman came to Stanford on Valentine's Day. In that article, they told about his musical genius and how popular he is all over the world. That is where I first read about his song being used in this film. Now I just cannot wait to watch this film.

My Mistake

2006-02-20T23:38:00.000-08:00

Well a couple of entries back I believe I made a list of my top three songs from A R Rahman. Well I made a mistake, it's really hard to categorize songs of Rahman especially the ones that fit into your top slots. There is no major change to my list but I know I like the song Chand Aaya Hai.. from the movie Dil Hi Dil Mein a lot. For those of you who speak Tamil, it's Dandiya Aattamum from Kathalar Dhinam. I don't know where exactly it fits into my favorites but I do know this that I will not try and devise a favorite songs list because it is much too difficult. The minute you think you've foun your favorite song, here comes Rahman with an even greater one. I recently found a Bgm that I was searching months for. I tried to search for this piece by myself when I could have just asked the fan club for help. Well I decided to post the topic for a search and to no surprise I had my answer the very next morning. It was the PaSaNi Bgm from the film Bombay. It was driving me absolutely crazy for the past few months. I hope you all know which Bgm I'm talking about, well this is one of my ultimate favorites. There I go again, I'm sorry I can't help it. One thing is for sure Bombay is and always will be my favorite album. There's just too much going for it. And of course to no surprise it's one of my favorite movies.

I Liked What I Saw..

2006-02-17T19:48:00.000-08:00

So as I was browsing through messages in the arrahmanfans club postings and I noticed a message titled "It Was My Day," of course I initially thought that maybe some random person had the chance of meeting the Boss. Much to my surprise, it was nothing of that sort. Well before I state my feeling on anything and spoil anything, let me just quote this lucky young man.

wrote:

“Hey guys,

Today it was wonderful. I was going to college in bus. Then some guysr ragging their juniors. They asked to him to sing song. 2 of them sang RDB songs. So the start of my day was nice. In college theirs my friend who doesn’t watch Hindi films at all. He even dint know TAAL songs.He sat in last bench & i heard 'SALLA" from him. I thought he was abusing me. To my surprise he was humming Roobaroo song. I asked him how did u get lyrics of it. he said 'This songs takes me to a different world". Then our friendly lecturer heard our conversation & said 'THATS RAHMANS MAGIC'. Now when I was returning home an old man sitting beside me waschatting abt how this modern music is destroying good music. Later I heard him humming lukka chuppi song. & he was saying that its only Rahman who uses western type of music in a perfect way. his music touches soul, and moves body. Guys, What more do I need to cheer. I will remember this day for long long time. Can I forget it? I don’t think so.”

So, well my initial reaction was that I truly wished I was the one who had experienced this. Living here in America, I don't know anyone who enjoys Rahman. Unfortunetly it is the truth. I am not sure which situation impressed me the most. I think I liked all of them equally. Well, I just thought I'd share this with readers who might have missed the post.

AND NOW, on to the music of Godfather. Nice, very nice. When I was watching the promos and the trailers for the film, I liked the tune for the song Katril Oru Vaarthai. And guess what? After my first listening to the album my favorite was Katril Oru Vaarthai. I just hate the fact that I do not understand the language of Tamil. Damn! ahah, I guess that only makes me appreciate the music more and it keeps me in a state of suspense. I like all of the songs in the album. Illamai starts off so intriguing. The tune that comes right before the vocals, that really high pitched tune, not sure exactly what it is called, LOVE IT! Innisai is a very nicely done classic number. Very hot. When i initially listened to Dinam Deepavali I felt that it was the Rahman of the 90's. Not sure why, but I loved it. The slow composition by Rahman, great. Remixes sure are worthwhile. The little rap piece that is high pitched in Illamai Remix is very cute. I think I like the edit of Innisai better though. Makes the song even hotter. At first I did not like Kamma, but as of now, I am enjoying it. Many people have said that it has not met expectations, I know I'm not a professional critic or anything, but I know what I like, and I sure do like this one. A sure Winner for me!

Ale Ale (Boys) - I am not sure why I initially enjoyed this song. I think I didn't even know this song was composed by Rahman when I heard it, or did I? haha, well either way, it's one of my favorites in Tamil. Nice use of srings, and the funny thing is though I don't understand Tamil, I love the lyrics, haha.

Rangeela Re...

2006-02-13T00:02:00.000-08:00

(My favorite picture of A R Rahman)

Well as I was reading the newspaper today, I opened the Life & Style section of San Jose's Mercury News only to find a humongous picture of A R Rahman. Wow, that was a big blow for me. I was so excited from the start. Of course I knew what it was for, the Pan Asian Music Festival @ Stanford University. Just one thing, I'm not going. This makes me extremely angry, but it's fate right? And I bet Rahman and I have the same feelings on this, only Allah can make things happen. If Allah wants, someday I will meet A R Rahman. But to say the least, that newspaper article made my day. I think I'll just cherish it forever, haha. But for now, on to my new segment:

Pyar Yeh Jaane Kaisa Hai (Rangeela) - To be honest, I listened to the album of Rangeela as a whole only recently. This is the album in which Rahman entered into the music scene in Bollywood. I love all of the songs that are included in this album, but this one especially catches my ear. So soothing and calm, just like Yeh Haseen Vadiyaan. They are both in the same category, not sure which one that is but I sure do like it. My favorite line, "Din to guzarta hai jiske khayalon mein, raatein guzartin hain uske hi yaadon mein." Oh goodness, I die everytime I hear that part. The orchestra is very nice, and the melody is just so melodious. Yes I know, that was the perfect word for it. I always tend to like slower songs more. Anyone can add a whole bunch of beats and create an up tempo song, but if you can make a slow and simple one a great one, then you know your stuff. Of course Rahman knows his stuff no matter what genre. So after listening to this composition a number of times, it is safe to say that this piece has made it to my top 3 list of all time favorite songs, coming in at the number 3 position, falling behind only to Tu Hi Re and the Bombay Theme.

One last thought, many people think that since I was born and raised in America, I listen to "American" music. I mean sometimes I do, when I get a sudden urge, but 99.9% of the time, I am listening to the Boss. To be honest I do not like English music that much. I mean when you can listen to Rahman, why would you want to listen to anyone else? He is very special.

Today's Ramblings

2006-02-07T18:31:00.000-08:00

Well I was planning on going to watch Rang De Basanti last week but that didn't happen. Oh well, I guess I'll wait, again. I have decided to start a new segment, everytime I post up a new entry I will discuss one of Rahman's songs which is included in my list of favorites. So let's start with my ultimate favorite song Tu Hi Re from Bombay, the year is 1995.

Tu Hi Re - Coming into this album, Rahman had already had Roja to his credit as a spectacular hit. I believe it is with the album of Bombay that Rahman really proved himself to the music world, not like he had to. This song has been my favorite a long number of years now. The lyrics, the music, the situation in the movie all drives me crazy. Sometimes I wonder why i chose this as my favorite. Although everytime I listen to an A R Rahman song I get that same undescribable feeling, this one has some sort of ecstasy, mainly because it has a simple soothing beat that pulls at the strings of your heart. Superb!

So Seriously Anxious

2006-01-28T17:11:00.000-08:00

According to a number of different sources, Rang De Basanti is a well scripted and created movie. I am very gald to read this news. I've been hoping for Rang De Basanti to be the hit of the year for a number of reasons.

My Two Favorite Men in the Bollywood Industry - A R Rahman and Aamir Khan.

1. A R Rahman - The musical score by Rahman is fantastic. It has already topped the charts. The backround music is a real treat as well, as people have told me.

2. Different Star Cast - Not the usual actors one is used to seeing and getting bored of. It's time for new kids on the block to show their stuff. Siddarth is already a hit in Southern Indian cinema, he makes a nice addition to the film.

3. Different Storyline - A film about patriotism among the youth. what could be more different?

4. Aamir Khan - Lets admit it, even though the whole star cast is awesome, or at least is said to be ( because I have yet to see the movie. ) some will only go for Aamir Khan.

His last movie Mangal Pandey did not see the light of the day. What upset me the most about it was that it had a musical score done by Rahman. I had hoped that would gain some acclaim so that even Rahman's music could gain some acclaim. That is why I had prayed that Rang De Basanti would hit well with the audiences, so that people would see how diverse Rahman's music actually is. Although People already know that, most of them have not appreciated Rahman's music in the past few years. If this film becomes a blockbuster, than Rahman's music will surely get noticed. Not that it already hasn't. It's a total chartbuster and you have no idea how happy that makes me. In recent times I think that my opinion on who is the better actor in the industry has dramatically changed. Ever since I was 5 years old, I've been crazy about Shahrukh Khan. I still like him but I don't think he is numero uno anymore. Honestly, his only movie that was truly different was Swades. He does the same roles over and over again. He plays the lovesick guy who falls in love with Rani Mukherjee or Preity Zinta or Rani Mukherjee or Preity Zinta again. Damn he needs to change. But if one looks at Aamir Khan from Lagaan to Dil Chahta Hai, from Mangal Pandey to Rang De Basanti, now that's a versatile actor. He takes on roles that actually mean something. Other actors are just for entertainment. Aamir Khan is about entertainment and making you rethink about certain situations in life, other than only love.

Well what I can do now is pray that this movie and its music become a very huge success. AND hope that I can watch this movie very soon.

Tu Bin Bataye Mohe Rang De Basanti

2006-01-19T18:54:00.000-08:00

When I first listened to this album, I felt like it was some sort of privilege. I had keenly been awaiting the release of this album, and when I finally found the way to have a look at it, I was excited like a little child who had just received a new toy. I know it's been a while since the actual release of the album, but I wanted to make sure I digested the whole album many times before I decided to say anything.

Ik Onkar - A sweet and simple prayer done by Harshdeep Kaur. Nice beginning to an album that leaves one satisfied and yet curious for the rest to come. This rendition gets one into a relaxing mood right before the adrenaline starts to rush when the title track begins. Nicely done!
Rang De Basanti - Wow! Amazing. Something so patriotic can be so mind blowing, rare huh? Daler Mehndi has done great justice to this song. That infectious " ding ding ding" gives this composition a very attractive start. The bhangra style is very distinct from other types of bhangras previously heard, making it amazingly fresh. If anyone who listens to this track doesn't get up and begin to dance, I will surely change my name. My personal favorite part is within the minutes 2:54 to 3:12, my goodness, I have never heard any style of dhol that has appealed to me in such a way. This is truly a chartbuster!
Paathshala - Fresh! If one asks the theme of this album, I can confidentally say that this album is so Fresh! The beat is very western and the lyrics are very intriguing. Different to say at the least. A youthful number which will appeal to the young masses. Sung by Naresh Iyer, Mohammad Aslam and Blaaze, they truly bring youthful upbeat vocals. Another version of this can be heard with Paathshala-Be A Rebel Remix. This version has impressive lyrics and Blaaze does nice english pieces to add appeal to the song. Another winner.
Tu Bin Bataye - What can I say about this one? Fabulous! The beat at the very beginning has an everlasting effect. This one is a slow paced song compared to the others. A beautiful love song sung by Madhushree and Naresh Iyer. These singers definately bring the justice to this song that it deserves. Sweet and simple lyrics. The first half is sung solely by Madhushree. In the second half when Naresh Iyer enters with the words "Mann Ki Gulli," overwhelming, right there my breath is taken away every single time. This part has some sort of magic to it. Just this part makes this song my ultimate, all out favorite. After this, Naresh Iyer has become one of my top favorites in men's vocals. Lovely song! I give this one a definate 10/10.
5 . Khalbali - With its Arabic touch, this one is not a typical song. Very interesting to say the least. This one is sung by the boss himself. Very impressive lyrics, talking about drinking and having the time of your life. When you associate these situations with the youth of today, how many actually say, "Ghar Bata Ke Aaye Hain,"? Very nice beat, very different, and personally very seductive. Clear winner for something very distinct.
Khoon Chala - This song totally belongs to Mohit Chauhan. Applauds to him. A soft number with lyrics that do it great justice. When one has a slow number, one pays specific attention to the lyrics, honestly one is forced to because of the soft music given in the backround. Nice vocals. I had never heard Mohit's voice before but this one is a voice surely to watch out for. Smooth song, a nice addition to a so far rocking album.
Luka Chuppi - Very innocent. A mother son duet sung by Lataji and the boss himself. Rahmaji's pronunciation of the hindi language has not become totally "hindi" yet, but that is what brings the freshness and originality into this song. A R Rahman's voice has a perfect sort of yearning and Lataji brings great motherish vocals. Amazing classical singing by both at the end making this a clear favorite with the audiences.
Lalkaar - Not exactly a song, but none the less impressive. With vocals by Aamir Khan, this will bring great originality to the film. Very partriotic lyrics that forces one to consider the fight for freedom. Thats how much this piece gets one involved.
Roobaroo - Sung by Naresh Iyer and A R Rahman. Wow, two of my favorite singers. The guitars and the beat of the song give a very youthful and peaceful outlook. The overall feeling of the song is for hope and waking up one day realizing that everything is fine, just the way you want it to be. Very fresh. A very nice fun loving song that brings memories of driving down the road with your friends just singing and enjoying life to its fullest.

On a final note, Rang De Basanti simply rocks. Nothing more, nothing less. It's so fresh. When I first heard this album, I did not want to write a review mainly because it takes time, but after listening to it, I knew I just had to thank Rahmanji for all of the hardwork that he has put into this album. I am very impressed. A must buy for all music fans! Five Stars! All I can say at the end of this is, Tu Bin Bataye Mohe Rang De Basanti!

The History of A R Rahman

2006-01-13T14:57:00.000-08:00

I know the recent talk is all about Rang De Basanti, but right now I have something else to say. Although, just for reference I give the music of Rang De Basanti a 10/10.

Recently I have been listening to Rahmanji's compositions in Tamil. There is only one problem, I do not understand Tamil. Rahmanji was absolutely right when he said that he hates languages as a barrier for music. I love the music of his more recent Tamil works such as Ah Aah and Boys in particular. Although I love my Rahmanji's compositions in Hindi very much, his music in Tamil just has a distinguishing special feeling to it. I have recently come down with an obsession with the song Anbe Aaruyire from the film Ah Aah. There is some sort of feeling inside of me when I hear this song that tells me to turn the volume extremely high and get up and start singing and dancing my heart out. What can I do, that's Rahman for you.

I remember very well when I was young and my father used to play the songs of the movie Bombay during car rides. I loved the theme music to it. I was young and didn't know any better so I stopped hearing his songs for a while. I started listening to his more recent hits like Lakeer. I think I had not even known the artist who created Saathiya was him when I had watched the movie, all I knew was that I enjoyed the songs of the film, especially Oh Humdum Suniyo Re, I truly thought that it was the smoothest song I had ever heard. I believe it was after Lakeer that I realized that most of the albums that made that special impact in my life were composed by Rahmanji. As I browsed through Bombay, Hindustani, Roja, Dil Se, and Thakshak, they all happened to be composed by A R Rahman. That's when I started paying particular attention to him. You cannot say that I just recently became a fan Rahman's, I've always loved his music, I just never knew who the man was. I know I do not know him personally, but I feel as if I know him and the songs that he is composing are for me.