Indian Idol 16's Manraj Veer: ‘I want people to know me through my original music’

Manraj Veer Singh. Pics/By Special Arrangement

Making it to the top seven of Indian Idol 16 and landing an offer to tour with Vishal Dadlani, contestant Manraj Veer Singh couldn't ask for more. While the platform has spread his voice, the singer says his ultimate goal isn't playback singing, it's building an audience for his original music. "When I auditioned for Indian Idol, playback singing wasn't my only dream. From my college days, I have always made my own songs and have released many originals," he shares. Having started his music journey at the age of 10, he adds that the main reason he came on Indian Idol was "to build an audience". "I wanted people to know my voice first because only then will they listen to my songs. I don't want to depend on labels or films because I already have the connections needed to release my work."

While he hopes to sing for AR Rahman and Pritam someday, he's in no rush. But the moment Rahman came on the show, it was an incredible moment for Singh. "I admire [him] immensely. But the biggest fan moment for me was when Satinder Sartaaj sir came on the show. I've grown up listening to his songs. His lyrics carry so many life lessons that if you truly understand them, you'll immerse yourself in the music. Watching him perform live brought tears to my eyes. That's what true art is."

Vishal Dadlani

Receiving validation from Dadlani made the journey sweeter. "From the auditions itself, Vishal sir always told me that I have a unique voice. While he added that my voice had shades of [late] KK sir and Jubin [Nautiyal], my tonality is original and that I have my own identity. When he said that the audiences would love listening to me perform with him, that was a huge moment because I had never imagined I would perform alongside Vishal sir on his independent tour," confirmed Singh.

July 11 - Aug 02
Duration of Vishal Dadlani's US tour

Singh's tips to save the voice

"We've been singing almost every day for nine months, so my voice gets tired. During rehearsals and band practice, I use my voice as little as possible and save my energy for the shoot. I drink a lot of water, avoid cold water and oily food, take steam regularly, and avoid sleeping in strong air conditioning."

Did you know?

Manraj Veer Singh had auditioned for ‘Indian Idol' thrice before being selected for the reality show