“My voice is my instrument” – Shruti Haasan

By Screen Weekly -

March 19, 2013 - 4:24 AM IST

An accomplished singer, Shruti Haasan on the kind of music that has influenced her, favourite tracks and more

How would you describe the music of Ramaiya Vastavaiya which is a musical?

The songs of the film are very romantic, the kind that you get to hear in films of the 90s. The Atif Aslam track is especially catchy.

Being a singer yourself, is there any song in the film that you would have loved to sing?

Not really, the music is beautiful but it's not my genre. I sang a love song for my Tamil film 3 but that was very challenging and exciting because I was playing a 16 year-old. It was also for the first time that I had to change my voice.

“My voice is my instrument” – Shruti Haasan

Any particular musical instrument that enhances a romantic number?

No, I don't think so. It is essential to have the feeling of romance for the number to touch the heart.

Can you name a Hindi film whose music has stayed with you?

It would have to be Kaagaz Ke Phool. The song 'Waqt Ne Kiya Kya Haseen Sitam' is my all-time favourite Hindi song.

Which song from a Hindi film you would love to render?

'Pareshan' which Shalmali Kholgade has sung for Ishaqzaade. It's a lovely song which provides many opportunities to vocally experiment with.

Any musical instrument which you cannot do without when you were playing for your band?

My voice is my instrument. I play the piano, but I really just need my voice.

Which is your fave musical show?

When I was a kid, my dad took me to watch Stomp in New York and I was blown away. There were actors using dustbins as drums with some merrily dancing to the tunes.

Which musical would you love to have been a part of?

I would love to be a part of Phantom of the Opera. I have seen the musical and the movie and am completely obsessed with its music.

Can you name a Bollywood actress whose life would make for an interesting musical?

I love Madhuri Dixit Nene and a musical on her life would have great dance numbers. It would be both interesting and fun. A romantic musical on Madhubala would also be quite engaging.

Which musicians have particularly influenced you?

Tori Amos (American pianist, singer, songwriter and composer) is an intriguing mix of a great performer and a singer and is someone I aspire to be like. The Indian influences are Ilaiyaaraja, R.D Burman A.R. Rahman whom I have grown up listening to.

Screen India