IT doesn’t take the routine koothu, gana and duet trio to make an album a hit. Atleast not for music composer Vidyasagar, who still believes simple soulful music sells. And stirs. He is back with yet another such album with 'Abhiyum Naanum', as he teams up with the same producer Prakashraj and director, Radhamohan, after 'Mozhi', one of 2007’s biggest musical hits.
"For the second time after 'Mozhi', we’ve tried a movie without a duet. There’s a love story entwined in this tale of a dad and daughter, but the director wanted us to opt out of featuring one," he begins with his raspy tone in his studio in T Nagar.
But music critics didn’t seem too pleased with the offering. Too simple and dated, they claimed. "Actually anyone can complicate music.
But I find it a challenge to perfectly understand the nuances of music and still keep it simple for all to understand. That’s my music and I’m proud of it," he explains, showing a lot of fondness for being hailed the 'King of Melodies' in South India.
And in an industry where music gets only so much respect as the star it features, Vidyasagar explains that music is ailing from mediocricity.
"The trend distresses me, and I’m perplexed at the music scenario. But I’m someone who thinks music needs to be understood by all involved in the process. And that’s why I have my unique set of singers. My vocalists shouldn’t just sing, they should understand the music they’re to sing," he then elaborates, clearly stating his favouritism for musical greats like SP Balasubramaniam, who still regularly features in his albums.
But despite knowing that the music industry also thrives on stardom, where does he think his music reaches? "A movie can be a great hit and run a 100 days. But what makes it enjoyable for multiple watches and leaves a lasting impression is often its music. And that’s where I think I contribute. But I'd not like to cash in on someone's crest of success for my music to sell. I believe in giving it to the audience in the most pristine form and hope it reaches them," he explains after a minute's deliberation, as he signs off, gearing up for many more such tunes for his forthcoming flicks.
sharadha@epmltd.com