Brinda's the ultimate: Hariharan

Chennai brims with festivity during this month. This time around, the weather is in sync with the festive spirit. Unfortunately, despite frequenting Chennai, I don’t have the time to catch concerts. I’ve a lot of memories attached to Chennai during the season.
My mother used to perform at prestigious sabhas in the city. I used to tag along with her and attend the morning lecture demonstration sessions.I’ve heard stalwarts like Ramanathan mama and Brinda- Muktha during those times. A few years ago, I performed a ghazal concert during the season and it was a different experience.
Film v/s classical...
For me, it’s the best of both worlds. Professionally, what I sing is the light classical form. My classical background helps my film singing and my songs mostly have my style, which has classical intricacies.
Favourite artiste...
I’ve grown up listening to musicians from yesteryears. T Brinda is truly something else.
In my opinion, she’s the ultimate. I’m saying this from my heart because, when you listen to her, there’s only voice and no noise. My amma has trained under her. I admire her for her voice quality, for the way she sings slow phrases, the calmness with which she sings brigas and speed swarams. In the current scenario, it’s undoubtedly Mandolin U Shrinivas!
Hindustani or Carnatic....
I have learnt both styles and I perform neither as classical forms. I draw inspirations from them for my renditions. My batteries are not charged enough for a full- fledged classical performance.
Your take on Jugalbandhi...
It’s a nice concept if it’s well presented. The two musicians must adhere to their styles and complement each other. Even the ragas must be chosen with care. I have performed with Mandolin Shrinivas — his energy and precision inspire me. He seems to have swallowed a lot of mandolins! We follow each other’s styles at the same time try to adapt and strike the right chord.
Follow us on Twitter for more stories