Exclusive: Singer Shilpa Rao Talks Pay Disparity, Being The Only Indian Singer On Coke Studio Pakistan, And More
Did you know her father developed her interest in music?
Shilpa Rao made her debut in the music industry with the hit track ‘Tose Naina Laage’ from the 2007 film Anwar. Since then, the singer has sung some amazing tracks like ‘Woh Ajnabi’ (The Train, 2007), ‘Khuda Jaane’ (Bachna Ae Haseeno, 2008), ‘Subhanallah’ (Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani 20130, and ‘Meherbaan’ (Bang Bang! 2014) to name a few. Her latest song, ‘Besharam Rang’ from the film Pathaan, had everyone grooving to its beat and lyrics! In an exclusive interview with us, Shilpa Rao talks about being the only Indian singer on Coke Studio Pakistan, pay disparity in the music industry, her take on remakes, and more.
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Q: You were the only Indian singer on Coke Studio Pakistan. What can you say about the experience of recording the song “Paar Channa De”?
Shilpa Rao: ‘Paar Channa De’ holds a special place in my heart. If someone takes the time to go through the lyrics of the song, they will find that it talks about having faith in oneself and holding onto something as strongly as you believe in yourself. This song has taught me a lot in my own life. Music always brings so much love, and that’s what we did with ‘Paar Channa De’—it brought people closer. Music transcends borders, countries, and everything else, and it brings people together, which is most important. I’m thrilled that people have shown so much love for it.
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Q: You have sung beautiful songs for the film Lootera, and the film just celebrated its 10th anniversary. Can you recall any vivid memories from those days?
Shilpa Rao: I recorded the song ‘Marziyan’ during the monsoon. I had the first line on the mic, and Amitabh went, “It should be Manmarziyan,” and he changed it right at that moment. It was a very short recording session, lasting only for 30 or 40 minutes, and we finished, but it will always be a very special song for me.
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Q: Is it true that your father helped you develop an interest in music? How did he do that?
Shilpa Rao: My father not only helped develop my interest in music but also played a significant role in shaping who I am today. He has always been by my side, not just when it comes to music but also during my every practice session. Regardless of successes or failures, my father always cherishes those moments when I sing. He continuously pushes me to do better, and I believe that’s how our bond will remain.
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Q: If you were to rate your own songs, which one would be at the top and which one at the bottom of the list?
Shilpa Rao: That’s a tough question because every song holds a special place in my heart. However, if I had to choose, ‘Tose Naina’ (Anwar, 2007) is particularly close to my heart.
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Q: Which actress do you think your vocals suit the best, and why?
Shilpa Rao: I would like to credit all the actors because they put in so much effort when it comes to the songs we sing. Every actor, including Deepika, Katrina, Sonakshi, and Alia, have done an amazing job. I can’t even begin to imagine how beautifully they express themselves.
Q: These days, songs need to have that “viral on reels” quality to be considered successful. How do you feel about it? Do you think it turns songs into earworms?
Shilpa Rao: Songs become successful when they touch people’s hearts. It doesn’t matter if they go viral or not; that’s not the basis for a song to be eternal. For example, ‘Manmarziyan’ (Lootera) was released in 2013, and people still feel a connection to it. Reaching people through reels is easy, but touching their hearts is a much more challenging feat.
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Q: The trend of remakes and remixes is something that makers claim the audience wants. Do you think music should be made to cater to people’s preferences or based on the artist’s preferences?
Shilpa Rao: I believe music should be made according to the preferences of the era. We currently have many talented composers, lyricists, singers, and producers. We need to explore and showcase the talent of this era. I strongly believe in original music.
Q: ‘Tose Naina Laage’ is a song that evokes emotions in listeners. How does it make you feel that your song still holds this power today?
Shilpa Rao: It’s the power of love. Any song made with heart, regardless of its future, serves a purpose. That power of love is what resonates with ‘Tose Naina’ (Anwar, 2007).
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Q: You recently sang the song ‘Kaavaalaa’ from the movie Jailer. How different is the music industry in the South compared to Bollywood?
Shilpa Rao: When it comes to working with artists, there is no difference; the only distinction lies in the language, which I don’t speak. It’s important to make an effort to get it right. Listening to your composer and lyricist is crucial. Understanding their instructions and then expressing and singing accordingly is the only difference.
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Also read: Exclusive: On World Music Day, Suchitra Krishnamoorthi Talks About Her New Song, Favourite 90s Singer, And More!
Q: There is a clear disparity in pay between male and female actors. Is there gender pay parity in the music industry?
Shilpa Rao: In the music industry, payment typically depends on the songs you create. Unlike other fields, having a captivating song that resonates with people and receives widespread love is sufficient.
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Question: Is there a song of yours that you hope is never remade?
Shilpa Rao: Well, that’s not in my hands. The music belongs to us only while we are creating it. Once it’s released, it becomes everyone else’s.
First Published: July 13, 2023 3:27 PM
