Mumbai, April 2: In an era where the Music industry is rapidly evolving and Technology is evident in every song, renowned singer Hariharan emphasizes the importance of genuine, heartfelt music. In a recent interview, he expressed his concerns about the over-reliance on technology in music production, stating that songs enhanced by machines often feel artificial.
Born on March 3, 1955, into a Tamil family in Mumbai, Hariharan’s connection with music began in his childhood. With both parents involved in classical music, he grew up in an environment filled with practice and melodies. This early exposure led him to start learning music at a very young age, dedicating hours each day to practice, which enriched his voice with depth and sweetness.
Hariharan’s education took place in Mumbai’s schools and colleges, but his passion for music always took precedence. He began his career through concerts and television, facing significant struggles in his early days. However, his perseverance paid off when he won the ‘All India Sur Singar Competition’ in 1977, marking the beginning of his recognition in the industry.
His breakthrough came when renowned composer Jaidev offered him a chance to sing in the film ‘Gaman.’ His debut song, “Ajeeb Saneha Mujh Par Guzar Gaya, Yaaro,” became an instant hit, establishing him as a notable figure in the music scene and earning him award nominations.
A significant turning point in Hariharan’s career was his collaboration with A.R. Rahman. The song “Roja Janeman” from the film ‘Roja’ remains popular to this day. Following this, he delivered numerous hits such as “Tu Hi Re,” “Bahon Ke Darmiyan,” and “Jhoka Hawa Ka,” each showcasing his unique vocal talent.
Beyond film songs, Hariharan has also made a significant mark in the world of Ghazals. The tranquility and depth in his Ghazals resonate deeply with listeners, and his numerous hit Ghazal albums continue to be cherished by fans.
In the interview, Hariharan shared his perspective on the increasing use of technology in the music industry, stating that the enhancement of songs through machines often diminishes the human touch. He believes that a true singer is one who can convey emotions through their voice rather than relying on technology to sound good.
Throughout his illustrious career, Hariharan has sung thousands of songs in multiple languages, including Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, Kannada, and others, earning him widespread popularity across the country. In recognition of his hard work and contributions, the Government of India awarded him the Padma Shri, and he has also won the National Award twice.