Benny Dayal — the name that instantly makes you hum O Manna penne or Batameez Dil. Well-known for hs songs in languages including Urdu, Malayalam, Telugu and Bengali, Benny spoke to City Express ahead of his concert at Forum Vijaya Mall on February 6, about the little things that complete his life.
What’s with the Hat?
It’s my homage to artists like Michael Jackson, Jamiroquai, Prabhu Deva and Frank Sinatra. It’s a very mystique thing to wear a hat while performing. It shows your craziness and calmness, at the same time.
Forget Dance, I wanna Sing!
In school, everyone knew me as a dancer. After I became a singer, everyone asked me, “When did that happen?!” The first time I actually sang in front of an audience was when I was six-years-old. It was for a competition. I was fast asleep when they woke me up for my turn. I went on stage, sang with all my sleepiness and I won! My mother was surprised herself.
Life Without ARR
If he hadn’t entered my life? I don’t know...I really don’t know. He is my inspiration and when I met him the first time, I felt surreal. I still can’t believe it happened but I’m happy God made me meet him. I’m his fan forever.
My Crazzy Fan
I have been given a life-size greeting card filled with all her favorite things about me and it was super sweet and super crazy! My dad still mocks me for it.
Mom, Dad, I’m Gonna be a Singer!
They were shocked when I told them my decision, at 13, but slowly digested it when they understood my passion and that nothing else could make me happy. Their full support is the best feeling.
All Day, Let’s Play
I hear music as sounds. I’m always listening to music when I’m not working. It plays in my car. I’m always with my headphones...basically listening 15 hours a day!
Music is my Life
Kaise Mujhe Tum Mil Gayi (How did I Get you?)... this song describes my life! How? I was not getting any musical work and then when it did happen I would always ask myself this...It’s ironical how that question is relative. (laughs)
His Running Playlist
Poo avizhum pozhudhil — Santosh narayan