This story is from June 24, 2016

Mohammed Irfan: Today's audience is eager to listen to something new

Mohammed Irfan looks back at his musical journey.
Mohammed Irfan: Today's audience is eager to listen to something new
Mohammed Irfan
Mohammed Irfan, who has several hits to his credit such as 'Behene De' ('Raavan'), 'Phir Mohabbat' ('Murder 2'), 'Baarish' ('Yaariyan') and 'Banjaara' ('Ek Villain'), has impressed composers and listeners alike with his mellifluous voice.
However, he admits that he still has a long way to go. The engineer-turned-vocalist, whose latest track 'Tere Naina' in '7 Hours To Go' is catching up, reflects upon his journey until now.

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Mohammed Irfan

Chasing his dreams
I have been inclined towards music since childhood. My teacher saw my potential and encouraged me to participate in singing competitions. As I grew up, my love for music grew. However, I ensured that I finish my education and become an engineer. When my father learnt that I wanted to shift to Mumbai from Hyderabad and become a playback singer, he wasn't happy. He wanted me to take up a job and lead a secure life as he felt the road ahead wouldn't be easy for me. But I sought time from him and came here in 2006.

Reality check
When I came to Mumbai, I learnt that auditions were underway for reality contests on TV. So, I participated in them and competed in three such shows. I thought they would be a stepping stone to a career in playback singing, but success still eluded me. Later, I started performing in live shows, made my demo audio CD and met composers.
The big break
Mithoon was the first composer to give me a break. I sang two songs for him in 'Lamhaa' (2010). However, before the film released, I got a call from AR Rahman sir, asking me to record a song for 'Raavan'. Since that movie released first, 'Behene De' became my debut song. Though I had always admired Rahman sir's work and dreamt of working with him some day, when I finally got the chance, I was a bunch of nerves; but he was extremely kind. Though he records only at nights, he gave me an extra day to prepare and started the recording a little earlier, so that I could get comfortable.

Love and longing
I'm good with romantic and melancholic songs, so composers approach me for such numbers. I like melodious compositions with good, meaningful lyrics. For instance, I like 'Tere Naina', from '7 Hours To Go'. It's a good composition. However, that doesn't mean I don't want to attempt other genres. In 'Prem Ratan Dhan Payo', Himesh Reshammiya made me sing 'Jab Tum Chaho', which was an upbeat, naughty track. So, if I get a chance I would like to attempt party numbers, provided they don't have demeaning lyrics.
One song, many voices
Nowadays, composers record a track with multiple singers and use the one which suits their sensibilities. The good thing about this trend is that they are trying out new voices. The flip side is that it can be disappointing for those artistes whose voices haven't been retained. There have been quite a few tracks which I had recorded but they were released in someone else's voice. I know I had sung them well. But I don't let it affect me. I just hope I keep singing better songs.
Future plans
I'm happy with the way my career has shaped up and hope to come up with a single soon.
- Rinky.Kumar@timesgroup.com
Listen to Mohammed Irfan's songs on Gaana.com

7 Hours To Go: Tere Naina song

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