Kumar Sanu
How does it feel to release your new album 'Hum-Tum'?
Princess of Malaysia is my big fan and co-ordinated to work with me on an album. 'Hum-Tum' is my tribute to Kishor Kumar as he is my idol.
How much effort did it take to get this record together?
There was not that much effort as my voice was recorded in Mumbai and Jatin Sharma (music arranger) co-ordinated with Princess of Malaysia and recorded her voice in Malaysia.
You filmed your new music video in London, how was that experience?
It was very nice to shoot here especially because it was the first time in London, for my music video of 'Jaan-E-Jaan'.
What are some of your earliest music-related memories?
There are two things that I hold close to my heart. One is that I got the opportunity to PlayBack sing for actor Mr. Amitabh Bachchan and second was working with PlayBack singer Lata Mangeshkar.
Has music always been a passion of yours?
My entire family are in music and my father was a classical singer, teacher and composer. The only thing I know is music but my genre is different: it is more of semi-classical and commercial.
You've won many awards, does it ever get old?
No, how can I feel like that? When I receive an award it gives me more encouragement, hope and drive to go forward with my voice to sing better and better.
You're one of the biggest names in the industry, where do you draw influence or inspiration from?
Definitely from my father first and second from Kishor Kumar. I got the quality of my voice from my father and Kishor Kumar’s acting-throwing style of singing.
What is it about music that you love?
Definitely I enjoy semi-classical and romantic melodies. Music that can touch the heart and soul of anyone listening to my music.
You also do a lot of charity work, can you tell us about some of the programmes and charities close to your heart?
I am currently making a school for orphan children. I donate to patients who need treatment with surgeries. I have done live shows for tsunami victims through my fan club and in London I have done some charity for disabled children.
What should we expect from you in the coming months?
There are menu films in different languages [which] are going to be releasing soon. I have an album called 'Icon' which will be releasing in London in the near future.
I am also part of Singing Association - all the singers in Mumbai have got together to fight against [a] royalties issue as none of the singers have been paid.
Kumar Sanu's 'Hum-Tum' is out now.