Latest news with #Pritam
Indian Express
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Indian Express
‘I would love to sing for Shah Rukh Khan': Shashwat Singh on collaborating with Pritam and Anurag Basu for Metro… In Dino, and the irreplaceable void left by KK
As expected from the creative synergy of Anurag Basu and Pritam, the music of Metro… In Dino has captured hearts and set the internet abuzz. Among its standout tracks, 'Zamaana Lage' has emerged as a fan favourite, playing on loop, dominating reels, and evoking a wave of nostalgia for the iconic voice of KK, who immortalized the soundscape of Life in a… Metro. In an exclusive conversation with SCREEN, singer Shashwat Singh, who lends his voice to 'Zamaana Lage,' reflects on the magic of working with maestros like Pritam and AR Rahman, the creative chemistry with Anurag Basu, the often-overlooked art of crediting lyricists, and his heartfelt dream of one day singing for Shah Rukh Khan. Q: Let's start from the beginning. What's your earliest memory connected to music? And who were your biggest musical influences growing up? Shashwat: The earliest memory is of my mother singing to me. She has a beautiful sweet soprano voice. Her voice is the first inspiration of my life. Growing up I heard everything that my family was listening to. But the one composer who inspired me and my entire generation the most was AR Rahman sir. Q: Your playback debut with 'Wat Wat Wat' from Tamasha was not only powerful, but it was with none other than AR Rahman. What was it like to start your journey under his guidance? Also, how do you feel seeing the song go viral almost a decade later, especially on reels and social media? Shashwat: I call him my mentor. I studied music for the first time in his college. I learnt reading and writing music, music theory, some piano and some opera style western classical singing, music theatre etc. So starting my career with the principal of my music school, who is a legend in the world, was nothing less than perfect. It's a blessing from above. 'Wat wat wat' changed the trajectory of my music career and I'm forever in awe of that song because of how intelligently it has been made and used in the beautiful frames of Imtiaz Ali. Thanks to social media people finally understood the meaning of those lines by Irshad Kamil and that amazing music by Rahman sir. It took a decade but it got what was long due. Q: I noticed you've collaborated or lack of a better word provided 'additional vocals' for songs featuring Arijit Singh. What has that experience been like, especially working alongside such a well-recognized voice? Shashwat: With all due love and respect, I don't think it's right to call my performance on these songs as 'additional vocals'. I am a primary artiste on these songs and not an additional singer. All the songs I have sung are my songs. I have never recorded with him (Arijit) inside the studio, So it's always a surprise for me when a song releases with multiple voices. Q: You're right, my bad. I have also noticed that you have worked with some of the biggest names in the industry. AR Rahman, Pritam, Amit Trivedi, and Sachin–Jigar. What sets each of them apart in the studio? Are there any interesting similarities you noticed, say between a Rahman and a Pritam? Shashwat: They are all different from each other. They all have different ways of approaching music. Thank god for that. I think the zeal they all posed towards their art is the common factor that keeps them at it. Q: Who are some of your favourite contemporary lyricists today? Is there someone whose writing you feel has a poetic or magical touch? Shashwat: There are quite a few lyricists today whose work I deeply admire. Among the contemporaries, Amitabh Bhattacharya stands out. His writing has a unique blend of wit, emotion, and poetry that consistently resonates. Irshad Kamil and Kumar Paaji continue to deliver beautifully crafted lyrics, while Kunal Vermaa and Shelly bring a fresh sensitivity to their work. I'm also excited by the newer voices like Siddhant Kaushal and Shloke Lal, in particular, are showing a lot of promise and have already penned some really poetic lines. That said, for me, the timeless magic still flows from the pens of Gulzar Saab and Javed Saab. Their words have that rare, almost otherworldly touch that continues to inspire. Also Read | Lyricist Sameer lashes out at makers of Animal for not giving due credit to composer in pre-teaser: 'Even sound recordist's name is there' Q: You've been part of projects involving both Anurag Basu and Pritam, a director-composer duo with a legendary track record. What was that creative atmosphere like? How involved were they with the musical process? Shashwat: I'm sure they both were fully involved. Recording 'Zamaana Lage' was a truly musical and immersive experience for me in the studio. It's a challenging song with a lot of depth and poetry. I always followed the brief that Pritam Da gave me. It's important to note that a song like this is never the result of a single person's effort. It's a collaborative journey that requires constant involvement and fine-tuning from the dadas and the entire team in the studio. Q: Speaking about 'Zamaana Lage,' Metro…In Dino is a sequel to Life in a… Metro, which had an iconic soundtrack sung by the legendary KK. Did you feel any pressure stepping into a musical legacy like that. Shashwat: No. It's a matter of respect and not pressure. No one can fill the void KK has left behind. I remember him during every single stage performance of mine and sing a few of his songs because that's how much my band and I admire what he has done in his career. Metro being the mammoth project it is, it definitely holds a lot of importance for me and everyone involved in this project. We always want to do justice to the music we are a part of and 'Zamaana Lage' got so much love from the audience that it makes me happy and proud that my name is a part of this legacy project. Shared post on Time Q: You also lent your voice to 'Sugar Baby', which sparked quite a bit of online debate. When a song faces intense social media scrutiny, how do you personally deal with that kind of attention, both positive and critical? Shashwat: Did it? I don't even know that people had a problem with it. I have four lines in the song. They are fantastic and I had a blast recording the song in Mumbai and Goa on different occasions. Q: You've already worked with some of the most legendary composers and lyricists. But is there anyone, maybe a composer or writer, you haven't worked with yet but dream of collaborating with? Shashwat: Vishal Bharadwaj. I love the sukoon his melodies hold and its best expressed in his own voice. There is a new artiste, Savera, I really enjoy his style. I would want to work on a song with him one day. Q: There's been an ongoing conversation in the industry about lyricists not getting proper credit in song promotions. What's your take on this issue, and what do you think needs to change? Shashwat: Is it? The world I'm in, there the lyricists get proper credits for writing a song and they also get royalties from all of the super hits they write. I know more lyricists with fancy cars and flats than fellow singers. I think every person involved in the creative part of the making of a song should be credited and paid for. Hopefully with ISAMRA and other such bodies, the basics of this industry get fixed soon. Q: Lastly, is there an actor you haven't sung for yet, but would love to? Who's your dream face for your voice? Shashwat: I would love to sing for Shah Rukh Khan. My dream face in the league of actors for my voice would be, Ranbir Kapoor. I have sung for him many times. I feel he is the most gifted one out there when it comes to lip syncing to a song with the right emotions, expressions and even the way he syncs to the breathing of the singer of the song. The truth is, I want to sing for all our superstars.
Time Business News
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Time Business News
Sitaare Zameen Par Movie Review: Cast, Crew, Box Office Collection, and More
Sitaare Zameen Par is an Bollywood sports drama that has already generated significant buzz. Inspired by true events, the film promises to be an emotional and motivational journey. In this article, we'll dive deep into the movie's plot, cast, crew, box office expectations, and more. Sitaare Zameen Par is said to be a heartwarming tale of underdogs overcoming challenges in the world of sports. While the exact storyline is under wraps, sources suggest it revolves around a group of differently-abled athletes striving for glory. The film aims to deliver a powerful message of perseverance, hope, and triumph against all odds. Aamir Khan (Lead Role) – Known for his perfectionism, Aamir is reportedly playing a pivotal character. (Lead Role) – Known for his perfectionism, Aamir is reportedly playing a pivotal character. Genelia Deshmukh – Returns to Bollywood after a hiatus in a key supporting role. – Returns to Bollywood after a hiatus in a key supporting role. Raja Ravindra – A talented actor playing a crucial part. – A talented actor playing a crucial part. Newcomers & Differently-Abled Artists – The film is said to feature real-life athletes for authenticity. Director : RS Prasanna (known for Shubh Mangal Saavdhan ) : RS Prasanna (known for ) Producer : Aamir Khan Productions & Sony Pictures India : Aamir Khan Productions & Sony Pictures India Music : Pritam (expected to deliver an inspiring soundtrack) : Pritam (expected to deliver an inspiring soundtrack) Cinematography: Manush Nandan ( Kabir Singh fame) Since Sitaare Zameen Par is yet to release, official box office numbers aren't available. However, based on Aamir Khan's previous track record ( Dangal , PK ), industry experts predict: Opening Day : ₹20-25 crore (India) : ₹20-25 crore (India) First Weekend : ₹75-90 crore : ₹75-90 crore Lifetime Collection: Could cross ₹300 crore if reviews are positive Comparison with Similar Films: Dangal (2016) – ₹387 crore nett (2016) – ₹387 crore nett Chak De! India (2007) – ₹109 crore nett (2007) – ₹109 crore nett Bhaag Milkha Bhaag (2013) – ₹109 crore nett Inspiring Real-Life Story – Focuses on differently-abled athletes, a rarely explored subject. – Focuses on differently-abled athletes, a rarely explored subject. Aamir Khan's Comeback – After Laal Singh Chaddha , fans are eager to see him in a motivational role. – After , fans are eager to see him in a motivational role. Strong Social Message – Expected to highlight inclusivity and determination. No, it's not a sequel but shares a similar naming style, hinting at an emotional and inspirational theme. The film is expected to release in December 2024, though an official announcement is awaited. Reports suggest he may play a mentor figure, similar to his role in Dangal . Yes, it is reportedly inspired by real-life athletes overcoming disabilities to achieve success. Pritam is likely to handle the soundtrack, known for hits in Dangal and Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani . If you love sports dramas with emotional depth, Sitaare Zameen Par seems like a must-watch. With Aamir Khan's involvement and a strong social message, the film has the potential to be both a critical and commercial success. Rating Prediction: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5) – Based on early expectations. Sitaare Zameen Par is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated films of 2024. With a stellar cast, a talented crew, and a powerful storyline, it could be another milestone in Bollywood's inspirational cinema. Stay tuned for updates! What are your expectations from the movie? Let us know in the comments! TIME BUSINESS NEWS
News18
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- News18
Anurag Basu Reveals Pritam's Habit Of Tweaking Songs Till Last Minute Before Release
Last Updated: Anurag Basu revealed that Pritam has a habit of making minor tweaks in his song beyond the deadlines. Director Anurag Basu recently made a revelation about music composer and his frequent collaborator, Pritam. In an interview with IANS, the filmmaker revealed that Pritam has a very 'scary' habit of making minor tweaks in his songs beyond the deadlines. Anurag said, 'It's really scary at this stage of post-production of the film, he keeps adding stuff, saying, 'In the background I'll add this, I'll add that'. He becomes so possessive with every song, every piece, everything". He further praised Pritam's sense of detachment, which kicks in the moment a song is released. 'After release, he's gone. But till then, you think he'll drive you crazy. He'll drive you crazy. And he spends money like crazy on producing songs, musicians sitting in Prague recording for him and somebody in Miami recording for him, but once the song is released, he moves on to the next one," the director added. Earlier, Anurag Basu mentioned that Metro…In Dino belongs more to Pritam than him. The filmmaker said, 'Metro…In Dino is more of Pritam than mine. When you see the film as a whole you will understand how music is so important for this film. It's like a thread. A string to tie everything together". When asked how both of them create superhit music consistently, the director said, 'It just happens. We have very similar choices of everything. From food, music to everything. I remember some of the songs and no one remembers them in the room except Pritam. Somehow our taste in music and the kind of artists we follow are very similar. There is no process of making a song and then a story". Metro In Dino features Anupam Kher, Pankaj Tripathi, Konkona Sen Sharma, Aditya Roy Kapur, Sara Ali Khan, Fatima Sana Shaikh, Ali Fazal, Neena Gupta, and Saswata Chatterjee in key roles. The film is set to release in theatres on July 4, 2025. First Published:
News18
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- News18
Anurag Basu Spills The Beans On Pritam's ‘Scary' Habit: ‘He Becomes So Possessive With Every Song'
Last Updated: Anurag Basu revealed that Pritam has a habit of making minor tweaks to his songs beyond the deadlines. Director Anurag Basu recently made a revelation about music composer and his frequent collaborator, Pritam. In an interview with IANS, the filmmaker revealed that Pritam has a very 'scary' habit of making minor tweaks in his songs beyond the deadlines. Anurag said, 'It's really scary at this stage of post-production of the film, he keeps adding stuff, saying, 'In the background I'll add this, I'll add that'. He becomes so possessive with every song, every piece, everything". He further praised Pritam's sense of detachment, which kicks in the moment a song is released. 'After release, he's gone. But till then, you think he'll drive you crazy. He'll drive you crazy. And he spends money like crazy on producing songs, musicians sitting in Prague recording for him and somebody in Miami recording for him, but once the song is released, he moves on to the next one," the director added. Earlier, Anurag Basu mentioned that Metro…In Dino belongs more to Pritam than him. The filmmaker said, 'Metro…In Dino is more of Pritam than mine. When you see the film as a whole you will understand how music is so important for this film. It's like a thread. A string to tie everything together". When asked how both of them create superhit music consistently, the director said, 'It just happens. We have very similar choices of everything. From food, music to everything. I remember some of the songs and no one remembers them in the room except Pritam. Somehow our taste in music and the kind of artists we follow are very similar. There is no process of making a song and then a story". Metro In Dino features Anupam Kher, Pankaj Tripathi, Konkona Sen Sharma, Aditya Roy Kapur, Sara Ali Khan, Fatima Sana Shaikh, Ali Fazal, Neena Gupta, and Saswata Chatterjee in key roles. The film is set to release in theatres on July 4, 2025. First Published:
News18
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- News18
Bhushan Kumar Praises ‘Talented' Anurag Basu, Pritam For Metro... In Dino's Music
Last Updated: Anurag Basu and Pritam have previously collaborated on projects like Jagga Jasoos, Barfi and Ludo. Dino, the Anurag Basu directorial romantic anthology is eyeing a grand release on July 4. The film has been generating significant buzz ahead of its premiere, particularly because of its soulful music composed by Pritam and Basu's signature hyperlinked relationship stories. Recently, producer Bhushan Kumar, during an interview, showered praises on the composer and the director for their musical excellence. Kumar said, 'When Pritam Da and Anurag Da were together, the level of music and their musical understanding was so high that I didn't have to intervene much. They are both exceptionally talented. A good song requires strong music, decent lyrics, and excellent sound production. Pritam is an expert at achieving such a mix. However, Pritam requires the director's assistance, as well as the support of the situation. And with both of them together, it becomes a lethal combination. Nobody can match that," as quoted by Koimoi. Dino's tracks like Zamaana Lage, Aur Mohabbat Kitni Karoon, Dil Ka Kya and Mann Ye Mera have been loved by the audience. These songs have been praised for their emotional depth and depiction of the complexities of urban relationships. Further, talking about the film, the producer said, ' Dino is a very relatable film. When a Metro was released years ago, audiences found it relatable to their own experiences. This film is based on real emotions and everyday experiences that we have in our personal romantic relationships and I believe that people will recognise themselves in it again. This film is another example of a modern-day love story with emotional depth and contemporary relevance." The film features an ensemble cast including Sara Ali Khan, Aditya Roy Kapur, Pankaj Tripathi, Konkona Sen Sharma, Ali Fazal, Fatima Sana Shaikh, Anupam Kher, Neena Gupta and Saswata Chatterjee. It is a sequel to the 2008 romantic drama anthology, Life…In A Metro. Coming back to Pritam and Anurag Basu, the duo has previously collaborated on projects like Jagga Jasoos, Barfi and Ludo. All of them are still loved for their music. They will also be joining hands for the music of Anurag's next directorial venture, an untitled romantic drama featuring Kartik Aaryan and Sreelela. The film will be released on Diwali 2025.
