FANS of music maestro, AR Rahman, are in for a treat this July 7, as playback singers take stage to pay tribute to his compositions at the Retro Rahman concert at Hotel Istana Kuala Lumpur.
Rahman, who has won an Oscar and a Grammy for his Slumdog Millionaire score, and is best known for his soundtracks in the Tamil and Hindi film industry, will be idolised by singers Unnikrishnan, Unni Menon, Harini and Haripriya, accompanied by Anil Srinivasan and the Fort Cochin Band.
Retro Rahman promises Rahman’s best and organiser, Mojo Projects is happy to bring in the talent to make that happen.
“It’s never been done before, at least not with original singers of the songs. They still tour with Rahman,” says Mojo Projects Operations Director, Mogethen Gowrisan.
Unnikrishnan and Unni Menon headlined many of Rahman’s hit songs, especially in the 90s and early 2000s.
A Carnatic singer from his childhood, Unnikrishnan was introduced to the film world by Rahman for his movie, Kadalan and there was no turning back. Unni Menon on the other hand, sang Pudhu Vellai Mazhai, on Rahman’s first album Roja and has gone on to sing 26 other songs for Rahman.
After attending a singing competition, Harini was approached by Rahman and filmmaker Suhasini Maniratnam (who was in the audience) to sing Nila Kaigirathu for the award winning Indira movie. It was recorded when she was 15. She has since worked on 14 other soundtracks for Rahman.
Haripriya
Haripriya, finalist of Super Singer Junior 4, wowed Rahman with her rendition of Saukiyama Kanne from Sangamam. Her range, artistry and contemporary feel to the very classical number, impressed him, leading to her touring with him for his concerts.
Retro Rahman is part of the Mojo Concert Series comprising three themed concerts and a Main Stage event. The three themed concert will be a run-up to the main stage event targeted for Sept 8 where more than 50 musicians and singers will deliver some of the most anticipated content, promising a one-night only, up close and personal treat for Indian music fans.
Tickets to Retro Rahman and the mainstage event, MILFF2018, can be obtained at
www.airasiaredtix.com. Alternatively, call 012-2000505.
** cover pic is of Unnikrishnan. Pix courtesy of Mojo Productions