As he marks 50 years in the music industry, singer Hariharan credits his discipline and enduring passion for music for helping him stay relevant in the Instagram era. He also talks about how the infrastructure of music is changing rapidly
Hariharan
Sounds, lyrics, collaborators, distribution of music — a lot has changed in the last five decades that Hariharan has spent in the music industry. But one thing hasn’t. The singer, 70, says his approach to music as a source of healing remains the same. That may well be the secret to his 50-year career. In a chat with mid-day, Hariharan reflects on reaching the career milestone and remaining relevant in times of Instagram virality.
Excerpts from the interview.
Fifty years in music is extraordinary. What has changed the most?
There have been many changes. But one thing has not changed — music has always been a healer. Years before and even today, it has that healing touch.
How do you view the drastic change in the way music is consumed today?
Society has changed, as has infrastructure. The way we distribute music has changed. But at the end of it, you still need good music. The tools — recording machines, electronic instruments — may be different, but rhythm is the same. You just have to keep abreast of technology.
Now, songs are designed to have hooks for reels. How does a musician function in the Instagram era?
Instagram is instantaneous and sensational. But you cannot become an instantaneous success. Musicians have to live a musician’s life — wake up, practise, get inspired, write songs, all for the love of it. Don’t take virality too seriously. Longevity is what matters. That takes time.
Film music has changed too.
Earlier films were dreamy; now they are realistic. Nobody lip-syncs like before. If the script is realistic, a song can feel out of context. The soundscape used to change every 10 years; now it changes every five. For me to sustain for 50 years in films was fantastic.
Was the journey easier in your time?
Not at all. Maine 15 years papad bele hain before I got a foothold. Nothing came instantly. This idea of instant success is an illusion. If you love music, you will stay.
Colonial Cousins’ reunion in the works?
Hariharan, one half of the popular Colonial Cousins, revealed that he may soon reunite with his former collaborator Leslee Lewis. “There are talks about making another album. Leslee and I are in touch. We meet, think about music, and spend time together,” the singer shared.
Farhat Shahzad
Hariharan has released his new album, ‘Jaan Meri’. The five-song album is written by poet Farhat Shahzad and presented by Sufiscore. “We started planning this album during COVID-19 and worked on it for three to four years. There are two traditional ghazals, one romantic song, and one I call a ‘ghazal nova’,” said Hariharan.
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