The interview which appears below, was originally published on TFM Website in September 2008. ©The rights to this material are reserved to the owner. If you have any concerns or comments, please send an email to info@rahmaniac.com.
Naresh Iyer, who became a household name after his spectacular performance in “Mayilirage,” has captivated hearts across the nation. Crowned as the best singer of 2006 by Hubbers, Naresh’s journey into the limelight began with an unexpected turn during the Samsung Super Singer contest. This extensive interview by TFM Page sheds light on his background, experiences, and the serendipitous moments of his career.
Excerpts from the three-hour interview:
Q: We have read that A.R. Rahman spotted you during the Super Singer contest and thus your film music career was born. Can you elaborate?
Naresh: The Samsung Super Singer competition, organized by Channel V, was a nationwide search for singing talent, attracting over 24,000 contestants. After rigorous tests, I was among the 25 finalists.
Q: Which song did you sing in front of A.R. Rahman?
Naresh: I performed “Chaiyya Chaiyya” from Dil Se and a keertanam in front of A.R. Rahman and host Adnan Sami. Despite feeling exhausted and losing my voice, I sang in the evening, unsure of my performance.
Q: What happened then?
Naresh: A.R. Rahman told me he had both good and bad news. The good news was that he planned to use me for his upcoming films; the bad news, I wasn’t selected for the last 15. This mixed blessing turned into a career-defining moment when I received a call from Chennai just as I was regaining my spirits.
Q: What happened to the competition?
Naresh: The competition narrowed down to 10 and then the final five, who received two months of training and recorded a pop album. Unfortunately, I lost contact with the participants after losing my phone.
Q: You got eliminated but won bigger! Did you get any inkling about what A.R. Rahman likes in you?
Naresh: Only A.R. Rahman could answer that. To this day, I’m unsure why he chose me, but I’m eternally grateful for the opportunity.
Q: How and when did you meet A.R. Rahman next?
Naresh: I was called to Chennai in January 2005 by A.R. Rahman’s engineer, Mr. Aditya Madhi. Meeting A.R. Rahman on the 24th, he decided to see which song suited me best.
Q: Tell us your experiences recording for Mayilirage.
Naresh: Recording took place in early February. It was my first recording session, and A.R. Rahman made it comfortable and enjoyable. Amidst giants like Vaali sir and SJ Surya sir, I felt like a kid. The recording spanned two days as the song was still being written.
Q: How old were you when the song was recorded? There was talk that you were only a teenager then.
Naresh: There seems to have been some misinformation. I was 23 at the time.
Q: The song was picturised interestingly. Did you see it?
Naresh: Yes, the concept was unique, and only later did I appreciate SJ Surya sir’s genius.
Q: How did Innisai alaibedaiye happen?
Naresh: It was another surprise call from A.R. Rahman. The song was challenging, especially since I didn’t understand the lyrics at first. Vairamuthu sir helped me grasp the meaning, which was crucial for delivering the song effectively.
Q: Some people critiqued after hearing Mayilirage that you cannot sing in high octaves.
Naresh: Each song is a learning experience. I appreciate critiques as they help me improve. My performance in Rang De Basanti proved I could handle higher octaves.
Q: While some people are busy with local raps and hip-hops, you are singing classical Tamil pieces like a pundit. Tell us about your Tamil knowledge.
Naresh: I’m flattered by the compliment! Though born and raised in Mumbai, I only speak Tamil at home and can’t read or write it. I transcribe Tamil songs in English to learn them.
Q: Let us shift over to Bollywood. Tell us your experiences singing ‘aye saala’ with A.R. Rahman.
Naresh: Singing for Rang De Basanti was a pinnacle experience, especially recording alongside A.R. Rahman. It was an honor to work with such an esteemed artist and the talented cast of the film.
Q: How was your response when none of your songs were fully picturized in “Rang De Basanti”?
Naresh: Initially, I was a bit disappointed, but I soon realized the director had a different concept for the film. I trust that even A.R. Rahman was aware of how the songs would be used and that helped me adjust my expectations.
Q: You have begun singing for other music directors now, such as Sabesh-Murali and Imaan. Your thoughts?
Naresh: All music directors I’ve worked with have been incredibly supportive and helpful. I feel very fortunate. Singing for Vadivelu in “Imsai Arasan” was particularly memorable; I’m a huge fan of his and even collected his autograph!
Q: Who was Naresh Iyer before the contest?
Naresh: Music has always been a part of my life, though I drifted away from formal training after the 6th standard to focus on other interests like cricket. I resumed my musical education at 21 and began participating in stage shows, mostly singing Hindi songs. Despite pursuing a degree in Commerce and starting a CA at my father’s behest, my passion for music never waned.
Q: Who has influenced your singing the most?
Naresh: My grandmother, Madam Jayalakshmi, was my biggest inspiration and supporter. She always encouraged my singing aspirations. Sadly, she passed away before seeing my success in film singing. If I had one wish, it would be to bring her back to see where music has taken me.
Q: Do you do any composing or songwriting?
Naresh: No, I am content with singing. I enjoy interpreting others’ compositions and bringing their visions to life.
Q: Were you in touch with Tamil film music before your foray here?
Naresh: Not really. Living in Mumbai, my exposure to Tamil music was limited. My familiarity was sporadic at best.
Q: You must’ve listened to Ilayaraja’s songs.
Naresh: Absolutely, I have immense respect for Ilayaraja. My father is a big fan, and I grew up listening to his compositions in films like “Sadma,” the Hindi version of “Moondram Pirai.”
Q: Who is your favorite music director?
Naresh: I have a particular fondness for A.R. Rahman, but I also admire Ilayaraja, Madan Mohan, and many others who have influenced Indian music deeply.
Q: Favorite singer?
Naresh: That’s a long list including SP Balasubrahmanyam, Chitra, Swarnalatha, KK, Udit Narayan, Shreya Ghosal, and Sonu Nigam, among others. I draw inspiration from each of them.
Q: What do you think is the difference between filmy singing and classical?
Naresh: Being relatively new to the industry, I’m still exploring the nuances. I’m not trained in classical to the extent of performing a full “katcheri” (concert), but I enjoy the diversity of film singing.
Q: Which genre of music interests you the most?
Naresh: I’m open to all styles of music. Whatever moves me and feels right in my heart is what I love to sing.
Q: Any favorite raga?
Naresh: I haven’t delved deep enough into classical music to have a favorite raga. My training is ongoing, and I’m constantly learning.
Q: What are your upcoming movies?
Naresh: I’ve recorded for several movies in Tamil and Hindi, though many are pending release. “Chennai Kaadhal” is one such film to look forward to. Listen to “Silusilukkum Silumishi” from that soundtrack.
Q: How many songs have you recorded so far?
Naresh: I’ve recorded about 15 songs in Tamil, four in Hindi, and a few more in Telugu and Kannada that are yet to be released.
Q: Who have you worked with so far?
Naresh: Besides A.R. Rahman, I’ve had the opportunity to work with music directors like Srikanth Deva, Vijay Antony, and Deva sir. Singing “Munbe Vaa” with Shreya Ghosal for “Sillunu Oru Kadhal” remains one of my most memorable moments.
