Khushboo: I am selfish and lap up whatever is given to me

When you don���t plan your life and focus on your work, miracles happen ��� this is how VJ-turned-singer Khushboo Grewal sums up her life. For someone who enjoyed interviewing celebs as a VJ, she realised much later in life that singing was her calling. While her forte is Punjabi songs, Khushboo has rendered her voice for the melodious and soft romantic number Girl I Need You in 'Baaghi'.In an interview, Khushboo tells us how age is just a number when it comes to shifting careers, her opinion on suggestive lyrics in Bollywood songs and her journey so far���
How did you bag the song 'Girl I Need You'?
I have only sung numbers which are power-packed and energetic but this one was different. I was in the studio when it was being composed. I have never tried this genre before and was surprised when Meet Bros approached me for it. They asked me to shut myself in a room and just emote the song ��� I had to sing it like an actress . After I finished recording the first few lines, I fell in love with the melody. I feel relieved that I can now venture into this genre and not just restrict myself to dance numbers. I never thought my voice was suited for soft romantic songs.
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You started your career as a singer much later in life. Is it because you were not happy with VJing and acting?
I did not plan anything in life. VJing, acting and now singing just happened. When I used to host shows and interview celebs, there always used to be a performer in me. I came to Mumbai not to pursue any art but to find out where my heart lies. Though I acted for sometime on TV and did Punjabi films, it was getting monotonous. Then one day, I got an opportunity to sing with Mikaji on stage. This changed my life. I started getting offers for live shows. One day at a party, Meet Bros heard my voice. They liked what they heard and I joined their band. Just because I am not classically trained doesn���t mean I can���t sing or perform. Also, I have never understood the concept of starting off late in life. I feel singing has given me a new lease of life. I have a six- month-old baby and I am already back to work. Singing is not like acting, where you have a restricted shelf life. As long as people like your voice, you can continue to sing, regardless of age.
What do you feel about suggestive lyrics in Bollywood songs?
You can���t be choosy about songs when you are trying to establish yourself and create your own space. In an industry where there is young talent who are ready to sing any kind of songs, if I start throwing attitude, then I will be repalced easily. I can���t decide the lyrics of the songs. Maybe Lataji (Mangeshkar) or Sunidhi (Chauhan) can decide which song they want to sing, but I have to survive in this fiercely competitive world. I am a little selfish and lap up whatever is given to me. Having said that, I don���t think the lyrics are demeaning to anyone.
What are your views on bands breaking up since you have been a part of one?
I feel the line of communication and harmony has to be great between the band members. The industry is completely credit-driven and everyone wants their share of fame and money. So, one has to be open and look at other people���s strength and learn from them. You can���t restrict yourself.
What are the advantages of having better technology in music?
Audiences for live performances vary from city to city. You can���t predict which songs they will ask us to perform to. But with technology, the concept of virtual concert is now possible. With the click of a button, you can be part of a show happening in some other city, relaxing in your home, which is impressive. Our reach and audience has grown wider, thanks to advancement in technology. But live performances are the most fulfilling part of any singer���s career. On that count, I am greatly inspired by Sonu Nigam. He is effortless and knows how to keep the audience entertained.
What are your views on Punjabi songs getting popular again?
Punjabi music is not just about bhangra. There is a beautiful world of Punjabi folk songs which I want to explore and bring it to the audience. Unlike in Mumbai, there is a huge audience for live shows and a platform for concerts in North India. The whole experience of performing there is different. We hope that more such shows happen in Mumbai as well.
Listen to 'Baaghi' songs on Gaana.com
Watch: Girl I need you song from Baaghi