Rhyth and reason

A R Rahman talks about how Raavans music evolved over two years to suit the film

A R Rahman talks about how Raavans music evolved over two years to suit the film
For someone who protects his privacy fiercely,it wasnt surprising that three guards were manning the door to the room where A R Rahman was seated before the launch of Rhymeskoolthe album of nursery rhymes by the students of his music school KM Music Conservatory. However,when we entered the room from the back-door hoodwinking the burly guards,the music maestro was more amused than miffed.

Rahman was last seen in Mumbai two weeks ago at Raavans music launch. What makes the film exceptional is that he has again teamed up with Mani Ratnam,the veteran filmmaker who gave him his first break in films. After a long association of 10 films,it is only natural that the two reclusive artistes have developed a mutual,almost instinctive,understanding. Mani doesnt reject anythinghes not the kind of guy wholl say I dont like this. You have to go by experience and see in his eyes what he means, Rahman says.

After bagging the Oscar and the Grammys for Slumdog Millionaire,the musician experienced a low phase when Blue and Couples Retreat failed to appeal to the masses. But with the songs Beera and Behene de from Raavan topping charts,Rahman,at 44,has shown that he still holds the key to the Indian audiences heart.

At the same time,there is criticism tooof having revisited his earlier works in Raavans music. At the suggestion,Rahman is quick to reply,Mani Ratnam was the boss. The music composer adds that the vision for Raavans music was different two years ago. It was a different interpretation but over two years,as the movie took its own course,so did the music. What we have now is what is right for the film, the composer says.

One of the finer examples of success worldwide,Rahman,insists that the only change that recent accomplishments have brought about is that life has become busier. However,with three public appearances over three weeksthe concert at the IPL closing ceremony,the Raavan music launch and the launch of Rhymeskool there is little doubt that Rahman is attempting to step out of his cocoon. When you have a role to play,you might as well live up to it. I still dont like giving interviews but I dont mind it when I have something to talk about, he smiles.

Rahman is all set to depart on his world tour covering 16 cities across the US and Europe from June 11. He even had to forgo two Hollywood films for this concert to work out. I want to celebrate India through these concerts. The world will get to know what India is, he says. Meanwhile,he recently signed a deal with American music producer Jimmy Lovines Interscope Records and will also be collaborating with British singer Dido and Ramp;B star Usher. However,he leaves us to speculate about his collaborations with Mick Jagger and Dave Stewart.

Rhymeskool is Rahmans attempt to provide the students of his music school appropriate exposure. Supervised by him,the album has 10 popular rhymes recomposed by the students and five new ones. It is their first big step into the real world. I thank Saregama and Katrina Kaif,who is the narrator in the album. Though he hopes to be able to provide the students more such outlets in future,Rahman is clear that he would not include any of them in his film projects. The issue of favouritism can creep in, he explains,And when making music,purity of mind is very important.