Spontaneity and the high-energy atmosphere make live performances truly exhilarating: Singer Hariharan

How do you connect with ghazals?

My fondness for ghazals traces back to my early days of learning music under my guru, Ghulam Mustafa Khan Sahab, a prominent khayal singer who also had a profound connection with ghazals. Witnessing his expertise and passion for this art form inspired me to explore and embrace ghazals as part of my musical journey.

During the 1960s and 1970s, Bollywood witnessed a significant surge in the recording of ghazals, with many iconic songs in the industry being in the ghazal genre. It was during this period that I truly recognised the allure of ghazals. The melodic style of music, coupled with the enchanting words, created a captivating combination that resonated deeply with me.

Your inspiration?

My guru ji Ustad Ghulam Mustafa Khan Sahab is my biggest inspiration.

As an artiste, which is one music genre that you would like to explore more?

As an artiste, I have had the privilege of singing in various music forms across different film industries, including Bollywood, Kollywood, and Tollywood. I have explored various genres, including ghazals, classical, khayal, thumri, and even fusion. Each music form has unique appeal and charm, offering distinct experiences. The diversity and versatility of these different music forms captivate me, making it challenging to single out one particular genre I desire to sing exclusively.

Every music form has its essence, complexities, and emotional depth, which presents me with exciting opportunities for artistic expression. Whether it is the soul-stirring melodies of ghazals, the intricacies of classical music, or the fusion of traditional and contemporary styles, I find joy and fulfilment in exploring the richness of each form. In essence, I am drawn to the vastness and diversity of music itself, embracing the opportunity to explore and contribute to different genres and forms. Through this exploration, I find fulfilment and a deeper connection with my artistry.

What do you think is the role of lyrics in making music?

Hariharan: The role of lyrics in making music is immensely significant. Light music often incorporates ‘aalap’. The absence of lyrics in light music would diminish its impact and transform it into a purely instrumental piece, lacking the ability to communicate with the listener on a deeper level. The words serve as the thread that connects the music to the listener’s emotions.

Lyrics have the power to give life and meaning to a composition, transforming it from a mere melody to a heartfelt expression. Without lyrics, a song would be incomplete, lacking the depth and storytelling that words provide.

Lyrics serve as a vessel for emotions, thoughts, and narratives, allowing artistes to convey their message to the listeners. They can evoke many emotions, be it joy, sadness, love, or reflection. The choice of words, their arrangement, and the overall lyrical content contribute to a song’s overall impact and resonance.

What do you enjoy more – studio or live music concerts?

Hariharan: Both studio recordings and live music concerts hold a special place in my heart. I cannot choose one over the other. Each offers its own rewards and brings me immense joy in different ways. Each offers a unique and fulfilling experience in its own right. When it comes to studio recordings, I appreciate the opportunity to dive deep into the mood and essence of a song. Achieving perfection and capturing the right emotions is paramount during playback singing for film or screen performances. It requires getting into the right mindset to deliver a compelling rendition.

On the other hand, live music concerts bring an entirely different energy and excitement. Whether performing for an intimate crowd of 10-15 thousand people or a larger audience, the adrenaline rush and connection with the audience is incomparable. During these concerts, such as HCL, my music takes on a whole new dimension as it becomes an improvisational journey, flowing in the moment. The spontaneity and the high-energy atmosphere make live performances truly exhilarating.

How do you plan to connect with your audience more?

Hariharan: I cannot express enough how grateful I am for the incredible support and connection I have with all my fans through social media platforms and during my live shows. Their unwavering enthusiasm and presence have been the driving force behind my journey as a musician and performer. Maintaining an authentic and personal connection with every fan I have is of utmost importance to me. I have a dedicated team of professionals who assist me in managing my social media presence with every interaction and message shared through those channels coming directly from me.

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