Regarded as the finest Indian artiste in the field of western popular music, Gary Lawyer is a renowned bass baritone, who sings just as easily in the tenor range. Popular for his tributes to Elvis Prisley at The Doors, Gary says he knew he was born to make music. “I think there are two kinds of musicians. Some that are are born as musicians and the others include those who are imbibed into music and learn it through their life. I always knew I was born to be be one and I am fortunate enough as I am gifted,” shares Gary.
His musical roots date back to his equally musical parents. Gary inherited a love for music from his mother Dhun and his father Rustom, who left behind a rich Western music collection. “I would go with my father every week to Rhythm House in Bombay, where we lived, to pick music records,” he mentions.
With his varied musical influences and classically trained voice, Gary began his singing career in New York during his stay there in the 80’s, singing at showcase theatres and nightclubs. But being forced to return to India, Gary had to join his family business and his plan to continue music looked like a distant dream. But, one evening when he sang at his friend’s gig, it was like the prefect dream of fame overnight for him.
“Just that one song led to so many music directors calling me for jingles, music album contracts and many more offers,” he reminisces.
He was one of the fortunate ones to be sent by the Government of India to the Festival of Russia to represent the country in the pop / rock category. He has to his credit five albums, including a song on a compilation album along with the likes of Kenny Rogers, Gordon Lightfoot and Don Williams. “Every song for me is a tribute. Whenever I perform a cover, it is for my gurus,” he says.
Currently he is working on quite an interesting project and is doing so all by himself. “For the album, I will be recording, playing all the instruments and also the vocals. I have my own equipment and I record the solos one after the other.
This is something I have always wanted to do. But it has been possible only now, for I am not under any time or budget restraint.” Having performed in Hyderabad a few times before, Gary says the audiences are always great. “I do a lot of corporate events. People here love music and I always have a great time with them.”
Gary Lawyer was in the city on Thursday night to play at the Hard Rock Cafe.