“Shortcuts will not win you the love of the fans”

Congratulations on A R Rahman joining No Land's Man as a co-producer and composer. Talk us through how you feel about this.

It is a dream for anyone to be associated with A R Rahman, one of the most sought-after musicians in the world. However, what makes me happy is the fact that after reading our script, he fell in love with it and wanted to co-produce the film. Echoing what he said in a recent interview, the film will capture the essence of the world of today.

You have been quite regular with your music, even amidst the pandemic. How do you motivate yourself amongst all the negativity?

This is a critical time for our industry. As artistes, we need to step up, if we have to survive. As for me, I plan out each year differently. Last year, I told you that I was going to focus on my films, which I was able to do. Even though the Covid-19 pandemic has disrupted everyone's plans, I have decided that I will give back to the band music industry that has brought me where I am today. I have teamed up with Yamaha Music for Tahsan and the Band's upcoming album, Shobar Jonno Na. It has been live-recorded with my band, and the first song – Protibadi Gaan – is out now.

If returning to your roots was in your agenda this year, will we see you complete the 'full circle' with a Black reunion?

I am definitely up for it. Although the former members might be in a different space musically as of now, we have no negativity among us. In fact, we discussed a Black reunion concert not too long ago.

Some musicians are implementing or condoning 'negative marketing' for their music, even disrespecting their own fans in the process. How do you feel about this kind of strategy?

It is said that anything negative, in any industry, spreads about five times faster than positivity. If artistes publicise their work in this way, it is completely their choice. I will, however, say that these stunts will tarnish one's brand value for good, even if it garners them a few headlines in the short run. There is no substitute to hard work and good music, and shortcuts will not win you the love of the fans.

Do you have anything to say to the readers? 

I would like to request listeners to explore music and give a chance to different genres, so that artistes can go ahead and experiment with their sounds. If we all stubbornly stick to the one kind of music that we listen to, artistes will also become stagnant as they will hesitate to create anything that doesn't pertain to the 'formula' of success. Also, we should all appreciate the frontline workers – doctors, nurses and law enforcement agencies, for the sacrifices that they are making for us in these dire times.