Shahen often performs at Hawaiin Shack at BandraOver the next few months, he could well put Bandra on the international map meet 12-year-old Shahen Lalwani, songwriter, rapper and dancer who is all set to make his debut in the UK. Shahen, Class 7 student of Beacon High School, has no formal training in music his performances are appreciated by all.

Last week, Shahen was spotted by UK-based music composer Vikesh Mehta while he was singing at Hawaiian Shack. Later he inquired about Shahen and even came to meet him at our home, says his mother Sadhana. Incidentally, Shahens father Romy owns Hawaiian Shack, where he often sings Eminem songs to the crowds who roar their approval.

I think he has a great voice and an attitude to match. He may be little but he transforms once hes performing. His performances at the Shack are great, but he can definitely take his singing to a different level, points out Mehta, who has also composed music for Mitr-My Friend, 16th December and the likes of Adnan Sami and is currently in India to promote music for the movie Kis Kis Ko, which stars the Band of Boys.

Mehta, who helped Shahen make a demo tape and video of his performances, will take it back to the UK and plans to show it to some music industry bigwigs. Im hoping that Shahen can eventually perform in the UK and cut an album there. Im sure he can go right to the top, says Mehta.

I used to shut myself in my room and practice rapping in front of the mirror, says Shahen, a Pali Naka resident, who has been an Eminem fan for the last two years. Shahen says that he likes Eminens music because he writes about things he has been through in life. I dont use such language in daily life, not even when I am angry.

Eminem sings it for a reason which is why I sing his songs, explains the diminutive rapper.

Sadhana says, We understand his liking for Eminem and know that he is good at what he does. Hence we support him. However, Shahens talent is not limited to rap music. He has written 20 of his own songs.

But for now, hes juggling his studies, singing and handling peer pressure he faces in school. Just because I sing Eminem songs, the other kids think I am bad, says Shahen, who idol-worships the singer, has seen his movie 8 Mile and is determined to make a mark in the hip hop music scene. From the looks of it, hes well on the way

lina@mid-day.com