Shashi Suman made it big with his rendition Albela Sajan from the movie Bajirao Mastani and his music composition in Mary Kom. However, Suman believes that his journey has been an easy one and being a fresher in the industry he had his own share of hardships.
Suman, who was in the capital to judge the voices for Bollywood Music Project, a festival to be held in Mumbai, the artiste talks to Metrolife, sharing more about the festival, his life and music.
Excerpts:
What is the project about?
Bollywood Music Project is a festival that focuses on Bollywood genre of music. The best part about it is that it provides musicians with an opportunity to experiment with various sounds and treatments.
How was the experience of being associated with it?
It’s a great experience. My act will be a tribute to the legendary music director S D Burnam, featuring other artistes as well. The exciting part is we are paying a tribute to him on his birthday that is on October 1. We all have grown up listing to his evergreen music and are hoping to recreate the magic with our personal touch.
How has your journey in music been?
It has been a roller coaster ride. Things were never easy for me. I had to do everything on my own as I knew no one in the industry. But at the same time, I feel fortunate that I have come this far, overcoming all the difficulties.
How did you get into music?
My father used to play tabla as a hobby, so my initial learning started at home itself. As I grew up, my liking towards singing got stronger day by day. And then I started learning Indian classical vocal from my guru Gulshan Bharti ji in Lucknow. And here I am today.
If not a musician, then what?
I just can’t imagine myself doing anything else as music is the only thing I’m good at.
Share the experience of your first big break.
It was when I got a chance to direct music for the movie Mary Kom. To be very frank, I never expected this movie to come my way. But as I assisted Sanjay (Leela Bhansali) sir for the movie Goliyon Ki Raasleela Ram-Leela, he saw that potential in me. And that’s how I got my first big break.
How do you define music?
Music is an expression which defines different emotions. My music reflects the person I am.
You were a contestant in the music reality show Indian Idol. How do you think these shows help artistes?
Reality shows do play a great role in the lives of people like us who have no knowledge and experience in this industry. And the entire world is watching you on television, there is always a possibility to get noticed.
What has been your greatest lesson in life?
My greatest lesson in life is there is no substitute to hard work and whatever we do in life we must do with compassion and dedication.
How do you perceive Bollywood music?
The best part about Bollywood is it has no fix genre. So we are free to experiment with different forms of music, but at the same time, we have to make music according to the situation.
What inspires you?
I get inspired by people who always try to go against the tide rather than following what others do.
Is it easy to make a mark in music industry?
It is very difficult, as we are competing against a huge number of talented people. But at the same time, our industry is open to fresh talents which make things a bit easier.
What are you working on next?
I am working on different genres of music but it’s too early to disclose anything.