Music has always had a profound influence on us through innumerable songs that have occupied a special place in our minds !
Priyadarshini, our next pathbreaker, is a Playback Singer and Music Research Professional who has worked for over 180 Indian movies and several albums in Tamil, Hindi, Telugu, Kannada, Malayalam and other languages for renowned Music Directors. She is India’s First Playback Singer to receive Doctorate for her PhD research on 100 years of film music research with longest doctoral thesis.
Priyadarshini talks to Shyam Krishnamurthy from The Interview Portal about starting her career with a Bachelor’s Degree in Electrical & Electronics Engineering from Nanyang Technological University (Singapore), working on a dissertation at Siemens, and eventually making a career as a Playback Singer.
For students, to achieve success in the music industry, be realistic about your goals, aim for local performances, record demos, and build a following online, while adapting to market and trend changes.
Priyadarshini, can you talk a bit about your background and your growing up years?
I grew up in Doha, Qatar and the majority of my upbringing was in Singapore. My father Mr. Ram is a Chemical Engineer from Indian Institute of Science, Bengaluru & Former Director of Indian operations of Spanish Engineering company Tecnicas Reunidas. My mother, Mrs. Sumathi, is a former government employee who worked at the Secretariat, Education Department, Government of Tamil Nadu and now a homemaker.
I was about three and a half years old when my parents said that I exhibited singing skills with swaras (music notes) of the ragas; I could even identify and say the names of the ragas while grandma sang, so my father admitted me into a carnatic vocal class. Six and a half years old, I effortlessly sang Carnatic Classical Varnams which were the senior lessons along with the seniors in my music class.Upon seeing my capability in grasping, my music teacher began imparting her lessons which were supposed to be of more advanced level. Due to my dad’s job, we relocated to Doha, Qatar where I began my primary education at M.E.S Indian School. As far as the music was concerned, I continued to learn from my grandmother, Smt. Sarojini, an all India radio graded artist.
I shared a great passion for film music with my parents. My father used to play a lot of old music at home, and my mother would often sing me lullabies to put me to sleep. Simultaneously, at six years old, I picked up a skill of effortlessly grasping the various aspects of film songs. I sailed through the age of six and sang. At the age of eight, this diverse musical exposure eventually led to a significant career milestone when I performed a popular film song at Qatar Tamil Sangam’s mega musical show with a live orchestra and a large audience. This performance left the audience in awe and garnered great appreciation.The experience in singing Indian film songs sparked my interest in playback singing, leading me to regularly perform in Doha, honing my skills and captivating audiences. Additionally, I was introduced to Western Music and learned to play the electronic keyboard as part of my school curriculum.
My father later relocated to Singapore for work, and I completed my primary schooling at Northland Primary School. During my schooling, I excelled in music, sang in many cultural shows and won multiple championships in inter-school competitions. I also became a child performing artist for television shows at the Singapore Broadcasting Corporation where I used to sing, perform for Kid show episodes where I also gained experience to sing a lot of original compositions.
I completed my secondary education at Yishun Secondary School where I was conferred the title ‘The Nightingale’ as I used to win championship trophies in music competitions bringing pride to my school all the while. I also continued my advanced vocal training in Carnatic Music. Alongside my academic achievements, I actively participated in cultural activities, took on leadership roles, and engaged in community service, contributing to personal growth and making a positive impact on society.
What did you study ?
I began my primary school education at MES Indian School in Doha, Qatar and continued in Boon Lay Primary and Northland Primary School in Singapore. Then, I studied at Yishun Secondary School for my secondary education and Yishun Junior College for high school. Later, I earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Electrical & Electronics Engineering from Nanyang Technological University in Singapore. Working at Siemens on a dissertation on programmable logic controllers helped me develop my technical skills as well.
In addition to my technical studies,I also explored my passion for Indian music, earning a Master’s Degree in Carnatic Classical Music from the University of Madras. I then pursued my doctoral studies PhD in Film Music at University of Mysore.
I achieved a monumental milestone by becoming the first playback singer to earn a PhD doctorate in Film Music, focusing on 100 years of Film Music. I pursued Naturopathy & Yogic science at the University of Madras, integrating my passion for music and yoga. Additionally, I obtained certifications in Western Music from renowned institutions like ABRSM and Trinity College of Music, London. I also learnt Hindustani classical Music and Western vocals for my singing.
What made you decide to choose singing as your profession ?
I was a distinction student who did exceptionally well academically; yet my strong passion was in music. My television music shows and performances in Singapore Broadcasting Corporation gained me recognition among music enthusiasts. As I progressed, I continued to perform in various shows like ‘Ninaithale Inikkum’ on Mediacorp Vasantham Television Channel.
My high school years at Yishun Junior College marked a significant milestone in my musical journey. I emerged victorious once again in the tertiary category of Singapore Radio Oli 96.8‘s singing competition. This achievement earned me a remarkable prize – a trip to India to meet prominent personalities in the Indian film industry and the classical music field.
There, I had the opportunity to interact with renowned Music Directors, Actors, Actresses, Singers, Directors, and Lyricists, enriching my musical career and providing inspiration. Many appreciated my high vocal range, unique voice boosting my confidence.
How did your first film song debut come about?
In 2004, I got the opportunity to sing a duet with Hariharan for the Tamil movie Kadhal Dot Com, under Ramani Bharadwaj’s music direction, marking a memorable moment. I flew from Singapore to record “Kadhal Kadhal”. This was an unforgettable moment in my life. Though I had extensive experience in live performances, TV shows, music competitions, and private albums since my childhood, stepping into the realm of film music was a new and exciting challenge. It was my good fortune to have the esteemed music composer give me some insightful advice during the recording process at AVM Studios.
Can you talk about your musical journey in Tamil and other film industries?
After beginning my career in Tamil cinema, I received offers to sing in Kannada, Telugu, and other Indian language films. Despite having job offers from multinational companies after completing my Bachelor’s degree, I decided to take up music as my profession. I was then offered to sing for the Tamil movie “Kusthi” where I performed the peppy song “Masala Maharani” composed by D.Imman and featuring renowned actors Prabhu and Karthik. I didn’t limit myself to just the melody genre and explored different styles of songs and collaborated with D.Imman on various movies, jingles, and background vocals.
Later, I worked for the Bollywood movie “Garam Masala” starring Akshay Kumar, John Abraham, Music by D Imman. I also made my debut in the Telugu film industry with “Simha Baludu” for Music Composer Manisharma and went on to sing for movies like “Giri” and “Manikyam 420” for other prominent composers. In addition, I entered the Malayalam music industry with the song “Premam”. In 2004, I made my debut in the Kannada film industry with the song “Ee Premadaramba” by Composer Rajesh Ramanath from the movie “Ajju” and established a strong presence by working with prominent music composers and delivering several melody hits.
Priyadarshini with Music Director Rajesh Ramanath
“Gira Gira”, from the movie “News” starring Upendra, Reema Sen a duet with singer KK, Music by Gurukiran and “Nanagu Ninagu” a duet with singer Mano from “Bangalore Metro”, Music by A T Ravish, “Kannalle Kaaodu” from Seena, “Heegeko Kaane” from Nannedeya Haadu, Music Director Mano Murthy’s “Kendolwe Kane”, “By 2 Coffee” from Cheluvina Chittara starring popular film actor Ganesh are few of them.
I sang for the superhit movie ‘Julie‘ starring Bollywood Hero Dino Morea, Ramya which was the remake of the Hindi movie ‘Julie‘ starring actress Lakshmi. The soulful track ‘Yeh Raatein Nayi Purani‘ originally composed by Rajesh Roshan, sung by Bharat Ratna Lata Mangeshkar was retained in the Kannada movie by Music Composer Rajesh Ramanath. I got the opportunity to sing its Kannada version ‘Ee Haadu‘. Singing it without imitating the veteran singer was a challenge, this song became a hit and became a landmark song in my film music career. I also sang another soothing song ‘Navanitha Chora‘ in the same movie which was also well received by the audience.
Any duets with prominent legendary singers for movies ?
Another break came when I sang a duet with Legendary Playback Singer S. P. Balasubrahmanyam for Kannada movie ‘Rocky’, song ‘Snehada Chiguru‘ starring KGF movie fame actor Yash, Music by Venkat Narayan.
It was a nice experience recording this song as I had to modulate my voice for the dialogue portion which was also part of the song. After this song, I shared the stage with S.P Balasubrahmanyam sir for music shows and also private albums. I was also fortunate enough to sing duet with him for 2 private albums before his passing away, perhaps his last few songs “Narudu Gurudani” and “Dhimi Dhimi” composed by Music Composer Mahesh Mahadev.
I have sung with Singer Mano for the song ‘Nanagu Ninagu’ for the movie ‘Bangalore Metro’, Music by Ravish. A duet with singer Srinivas for Tamil movie ‘Naan Than Bala’ song ‘Uyire Unakkaga’, Music by Venkat Krishi. I have sung with Bollywood Singer KK for Actor Upendra’s Kannada movie “News”, Music by Gurukiran.
You have sung for so many lyricists, which one is memorable ?
In recent times, in Tamil Movie ‘Naan Than Bala’ starring Film Actor Vivek in the lead role, I have sung an unforgettable song ‘Thiruvai Mozhi azhaga’ penned by veteran Lyricist Vaali which is considered to be the last song he wrote before his death. This song was rich in poetry and I had to concentrate more on its pronunciation while recording the song. For the same movie ‘Naan Than Bala’ I also sang ‘Uyire Unakkaga’ with singer Srinivas, Music Composed by Venkat Krishi. This movie’s audio was released by Music Composer A. R. Rahman, Directors K. Balachander, Bharathiraja & Mani Ratnam.
What sparked your interest in pursuing a PhD in film music specifically? Can you share any specific experiences or influences that led you down this path?
I have always had the zeal for dwelling deeper into anything I do and my inquisitive mind is always in search of answers. During my Bachelor’s in Electrical & Electronics Engineering at Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, the inner interest to dwell deeper in Indian Films & Music arose. With my debut as a playback singer, it opened new horizons for me in Indian Cinema which made my stay become longer in India. Alongside singing, I pursued a Master’s Degree in Music from University of Madras. During that
time, my interest in reading books, and learning new things made me realise that there were plenty of books on Indian Cinema, but only a handful of books specifically in Film Music which triggered a thought in me that Indian Film Music possesses multidimensional aspects.
As a playback singer, I wanted to contribute to the film industry by preserving and raising awareness about Indian film music’s legacy. I approached several universities for research opportunities but faced challenges due to the novelty of my subject and the lack of available guides. Eventually, I secured a research opportunity at the University of Mysore.
With my PhD Guide Prof Sreedhara :
As a playback singer, I did not want to limit myself to only sing & perform, but also to contribute to the Film Industry by creating an indigenous resource to preserve, and create awareness of Indian Film Music’s legacy. I wanted to document and disseminate its histories, musical aspects, intricacies, its special qualities, songs, orchestrations, background score, contributions of Music Directors, Playback Singers, Lyricists, Musicians & Sound technicians. My research topic focused on the study of music in Kannada and Tamil cinema, from 1917 to 2020 in the Tamil film industry and 1934 to 2020 in the Kannada film industry.
PhD Convocation :
What do you think are the challenges when it comes to being a playback singer?
One needs to understand that becoming a playback singer warrants a high degree of music skills. It is very essential to grasp the new song & its nuances in a fraction of a second. Understanding the musical requirements of the music composer and being able to deliver it with the right emotional expressions is utmost important. A playback singer must have a strong and versatile singing voice, excellent pitch and rhythm sense, and the ability to convey emotions through their singing. In the working environment, one needs to have good bonding with composers, musicians, and other members of the film crew. The biggest challenge about playback singing is getting the right break at the right time. The music industry is constantly evolving, and singers must continually adapt to changing trends, technologies, and audience preferences to stay relevant. Singing is a mentally demanding profession that requires constant focus, creativity, and emotional expression. Singers often have to balance multiple tasks simultaneously, such as writing songs, recording music, performing live shows, and managing their social media presence.
What are the specific challenges you encountered as a researcher conducting research for your thesis?
My thesis is about the contributions of the advent of talkie, playback singing, music in the silent era, Music Directors, Playback Singers, Lyricists, Sound Technicians with an Introduction to both Tamil & Kannada film Industries. I have also handpicked songs from different periods, classified and analysed them through different aspects like folk, carnatic, hindustani, western, mass numbers, dance based. I have also briefly looked into the background scores. A glimpse of Music Creation, Recording, Production, Marketing, Business and Consumption is also dwelt upon.
In every step of my research be it tracing back the history, reviving olden day songs, and interviewing celebrities, I have faced challenges. In spite of being a Playback Singer in both Kannada and Tamil Cinema industries, there were challenges faced in establishing communication, meeting for personal interviews with yesteryear to present day Music Directors, Playback Singers, Carnatic & Hindustani Classical Musicians, Folk singers, Lyricists, Musicians, Sound Technicians Film Producers, Directors, Actors, Actresses and others. It was difficult to match their schedules with mine as some were present in different parts of India and abroad. Contacting non-film family members of late artists proved challenging for information collection.
Priyadarshini with South Indian Cinema’s First Heroine, Female Director TP Rajalakshmi’s daughter Kamala
Priyadarshini with Fim Producer Ramkumar Ganesan, Actor Sivaji Ganesan’s Son
Priyadarshini with Singer S.Janaki
Priyadarshini with A R Rahman
Priyadarshini with Ilayaraja
During recording sessions and music shows, I turned my break time into valuable conversations with living legends, gaining useful information for my studies.
Due to the rarity and novelty of my topic, there were no available references. It was challenging to collect song data from early Tamil & Kannada films due to missing reels. Extracting song numbers and titles required searching for old song books. Additionally, gathering information about outdated music recording technology proved difficult. Without access to old newspapers, collecting posters and advertisements for audio releases was tough. Tracing interviews with past music directors, singers, and lyricists necessitated finding old radio and television interviews.
What’s a typical day like? What is it you love about your career?
My day begins with my morning riyaz after which I will have my recordings, rehearsals, shows, performances etc. In some instances, my day will be filled with song release events, press interviews too.
Everyday is a learning process henceforth I don’t miss learning music through exploring new creations in my voice and with my music classes from my Guru. As a music educator, it is also my responsibility to deliver my classes right to aspiring music learners. In addition, I also delve into music research and continue to present papers at conferences, write for journals and also author my book.
I love being a singer and it is definitely a blessing of God as I get to deliver innumerable new musical creations. Singing allows me to convey emotions and connect with my audience. Sharing my music and making a positive impact on people’s lives is fulfilling. I’ve heard several of them mention how my music has helped them heal on numerous occasions. Pursuing a singing career brings joy, fulfillment, and opportunities to develop new skills and discover oneself.
Can you talk about some of your memorable Live concert experiences as a Live Performer in both Playback Singing and Classical singing?
As a Live Performer, I had the golden opportunity to perform in the presence of Legendary Bollywood Music Director O.P. Nayyar for ‘O.P. Nayyar Musical Night’. I also performed in the music show ‘Madhur Sangeeth‘ which was the exclusive musical show in the presence of Legendary Bollywood Actor, Director Manoj Kumar. I have also had the privilege of singing with Legends S.P. Balasubrahmanyam, Hariharan, K.J. Yesudas, Film actor Mammooty and many others. I have also performed for ‘Geet Bandish Milan‘ by Mahesh Mahadev featuring myself and Hindustani Vocalist Pt.Jayateerth Mevundi performing jugalbandi of Film songs & Hindustani Classical Bandishes. I have been fortunate to present Chamber Musical Concert and performances for many Film Celebrities like Legendary Kannada Film Actors Vishnuvardhan and Bharathi Vishnuvardhan, Producer, Actor Rockline Venkatesh etc. I have also performed for several Radio & Television shows, Music Fests, Star Nites and for corporate shows.
Priyadarshini with SPB Charan
Priyadarshini with Hariharan
As a Carnatic vocalist, I have performed Carnatic Classical Concert for the Tyagaraja Aradhana Festival, Thiruvaiyaru, Special Music Concert for SVN Rao Memorial Music Festival & National Award at Gayana Samaja, Bengaluru. Apart from these, I have performed many semi-classical performances across the globe.
How does your work benefit society?
As a Singer: Playback singing allows singers to preserve and introduce classic songs to new generations, maintaining cultural heritage and keeping ancestor’s music alive. It enhances efficiency and accessibility, bridging gaps between regions and cultures, promoting global unity. It facilitates cultural exchange through international music styles and collaborations, fostering cross-cultural understanding.The songs we sing definitely have an impact on society, it unites people, can help build connections and feelings of togetherness. Some songs we sing become stress busters for many, some have meditative effects, some have had an impact on improving health, enhancing memory etc. Playback singing can help bridge language barriers by allowing artists to perform in multiple languages, promoting global understanding and appreciation of diverse cultures. Let’s not forget the entertainment value! Singing can be a thrilling experience for fans, providing an opportunity to enjoy their favorite songs performed by talented artists.
In conclusion, while playback singing may not be everyone’s cup of tea, it has several benefits that contribute to the richness of our musical culture and society as a whole.
As a researcher: This study explores the artistic, historical, commercial value, classicism, and popularity of songs in Kannada and Tamil Cinema and their music industries. My aim is to create an indigenous resource to preserve and raise awareness of the music legacy in these industries. The research serves as a primary source for future film music studies, with personal interviews and special mentions of film personalities. It can be used as a reference for researchers, students, and music lovers to study, foster, and encourage new cinema musical and journalistic works.
The contributions of music composers, Playback singers, lyricists, musicians, music arrangers and music conductors from the early to present days is effectively shown and this aids in globalising Kannada and Tamil cinema. The exhibition showcases the contributions of music composers, playback singers, lyricists, musicians, arrangers, and conductors to Kannada and Tamil cinema lovers, inspiring and motivating present and future artists, and recognizing the achievements of Kannada and Tamil cinema music.
Tell us an example of a specific memorable work you did that is very close to you!
I have sung for several private albums for various audio labels in more than 17 Indian and foreign languages. My album “Madhur Sangeeth” was released by Raghavendra Rajkumar, Film Producer and son of Veteran Actor Dr. Rajkumar. Another album of mine with Legendary Singer S. P Balasubramaniam named “Rama Priya” and “Ram Pyaari” was released by Film Producer Dr. Parvathamma Rajkumar.I had the opportunity to work on new and rare raga classical compositions. One of my recent works includes Music composer Mahesh Mahadev’s new raga, a new addition to the rich repertoire of ragas in Indian classical music. I have sung a carnatic classical krithi “Sri Ramachandram Bhajami” in a new raga Sri Thyagaraja which was created, written and composed by Music composer Mahesh Mahadev. This raga is named after Saint Sri Thyagaraja. Like this, I have sung for new raga creations of composer Mahesh Mahadev’s Sri Jnanakshija, Samya, Amritha Kalyani, Nada Kalyani etc.
A little about your Music Foundation and Recording Studios? Your role as co-founder, Music Educator, Mentor and Vocal Coach?
“PRISM Foundation & Recording Studios” was founded by my dad Mr. Ram in 2014. He is currently the Chairman of the organization. Myself and Music Composer Mahesh Mahadev are its Managing Directors. Through PRISM Music Foundation we are providing opportunities, training and music education to many aspiring students. As a Music Educator, Vocal coach for Playback & Professional Singing, Carnatic Vocal & Western Music for Trinity College of London & ABRSM (Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music) International Music Board Graded Examinations, I have been providing training & guidance to students through our music foundation. I am proud to say we have trained faculties for various courses and we provide career opportunities for musicians who aspire to teach music. Many of our students have secured Distinctions and Merits with few scoring cent percent in the Trinity College of London Music Examinations & other International Music Examination Boards. Few of our students have released their private music albums with our training & guidance with others being performers in television and musical shows.
I have also been instrumental in designing the structured Graded Syllabus for the new systematic way of Learning Film Music & Professional singing study program known as ‘Popular Music’ created by Music Composer Mahesh Mahadev. This study program provides a systematic way of Learning Film Music & Professional singing through a graded syllabus. This precisely structured Graded Syllabus has been divided into two different study programs ‘Popular Music’ for PRISM Foundation Students. I have designed a structured syllabus for ‘Applied Popular Music’ for University Undergraduate, Graduate & Diploma students. Through our organisation, we have also trained hundreds of students from India, Singapore, Malaysia, Australia, USA, UK, Canada, Japan, Spain, France, Gulf, Netherlands, Austria and other countries across the globe. We have created a special syllabus for Popular Music Stressbuster program for working professionals, Government Officials, CEOs, Directors, Doctors & Surgeons, Managing Directors of reputed companies and organizations where I have been identifying their hidden musical talent, shaping it enabling them for good presentation.
You had also mentioned earlier that you were a writer and author?
I have authored several research articles and presented papers in peer reviewed Journals, seminars and conferences. I am currently writing a few books which focus on bringing out my research based topics on music, cinema and arts. This creative realm that kind of oscillates between the conscious and unconscious minds is a different experience altogether.
Having been in the creative field, we are pretty sure you must have won several awards?
I have been fortunate and blessed to receive many Indian and International awards and recognitions. Let me talk about a few of them. I was recently honored at Sri Sathya Sai Tapovanam, Tumkur, with the title of “Gana Kala Saraswathi.” This title was bestowed upon me by Sri Sri Dheerananadaji Maharaj of Ramakrishna Vivekananda Ashrama, Tumkur, in appreciation of my outstanding contributions to music in a range of genres.
The ISSA International Music Awards in Atlanta, USA, presented my album “Meera-The Way of the Storm” with the 2024 International Music Award for “International Best (male) Album of the Year.”
Additionally, the Josie Music Awards in Nashville, Tennessee, USA, nominated me for both “World Artist of the Year” and “World Vocalist of the Year” in 2024. I was honored with the Star Icon of India Awards’ “Versatile Playback Singer” title.
At the Karnataka Film Festival in 2023, I received the Puneeth Rajkumar “Rajaratna Award” for my exceptional contribution to the film industry. I received “Silver Screen Women Achiever 2023” Award from Universal Film Producers Council and Nava Karnataka Film Academy recognizing my exceptional contributions to the film industry. The Lalitha Kala Srujana Organization presented me with the Lalitha Kala Srujana award 2021. The Karnataka State Chalanachitra Rasikara Sangha awarded me the title of “Best Playback Singer” in 2017. In 2014, the Bengaluru International Youth Festival presented me with the International Youth Award for Best Playback Singer.
I always feel the responsibility to do better increases as soon as you receive an award. It certainly tells us to work even harder and stay focused on our dreams.
Your advice to students based on your experience?
To pursue a singing career, develop a genuine passion through lessons, school choirs, and competitions. Identify your singing niche, such as Indian classical, film, Western classical pop, rock, jazz, or any genre. Enhance vocal technique, stage presence, and performance skills through music classes and tutoring. Record singing practice to track progress, identify improvement areas, and create a comprehensive portfolio.
To achieve success in the music industry, be realistic about your goals, aim for local performances, record demos, and build a following online, while adapting to market and trend changes.
Enrolling in music schools or universities can enhance singing and music theory skills, while maintaining good vocal hygiene, rest, and hydration is crucial for effective voice function.A successful singing career requires persistence, positivity, and a strong passion for singing. Stay focused, work hard, and keep your passion at the forefront.
Future Plans?
I have releases in Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, Hindi movies. I will share a few which are lined up for immediate release. I have sung a duet with Sonu Nigam for the upcoming Telugu movie & Kannada movie “Rhythm”. As an independent artist I am working on many experimental musical projects. Also I am working on research projects related to music and arts. In addition, I’m working on a book about film music that should be out soon. I’m thrilled to share my thoughts and experiences through this book because I think film music is such a potent art form.
Some links to your website, work and other references for students?
Official Website: https://priyadarshini.sg
Press Articles: https://priyadarshini.sg/priyadarshini-on-press-and-print-media/ Youtube: www.youtube.com/priyadarshinisinger
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/priyadarshini.playbacksinger Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/priyadarshinisinger