It is AR Rahman’s birthday today and as wishes pour in for the living legend from all quarters, ETimes got in touch with Shilpa Rao for an exclusive interview where she opened up about working with the musical maestro, her all time favourite Rahman song and more. Excerpts…
Tell us about your first rendezvous with AR Rahman.
I had received a call saying Rahman sir wanted me to record a song for him. I had just woken up and I headed straight to the studio. It was so refreshing to meet him for that song. He was calm and focused. He has a great sense of humour and is extremely polite and respectful towards everyone. He had such a positive aura that I felt his presence even after I left the studio. He is a brilliant musician. It was great to work with him as he gave me a lot of freedom to be myself in the song.
How was your experience of working with him?
He gives you the maximum freedom you will ever experience while recording a song. He actually pushes your limits and makes you try something new that you have not done before.
Name one quality that makes the music maestro stand apart from the rest.
I think for him, creating music and connecting with the universe or to the higher power is one and the same. I think that's how he lives for music.
Your all time favourite AR Rahman song...
His ‘Bombay’ theme is my most favourite to date.
One advice he gave you or one thing that you have learnt from AR Rahman…
I have learnt how to be calm and patient from him. I think his calmness has come from the fact that he has seen so many ups and downs in his life.
Any message for him on his birthday?
Happy Birthday, sir! I really wish you a lot of good health, peace and happiness. Just keep being you. You are brilliant!
