Right from writing his own songs, penning lyrics and doing the composition, Vayu is at it completely. What started off as a passion for him, soon culminated into a profession and today, by releasing his own music single and simultaneously working on Bollywood songs, Vayu is enjoying the balance of both.
In an exclusive conversation with SpotboyE.com, the music composer talks about the changing trends of music, his take on independent music, award shows and lots more.
How did the breakthrough into the music industry happen?
I used to write songs as a kid but I never thought that I would actually get into song-writing professionally. I came to Mumbai to become a filmmaker so I started working as a promo producer with a TV channel. And while doing that, I got to write lyrics for a couple of films but those songs never did well, so nobody knows about them. Then, as I was working with Sri Adhikari Brothers as a promo producer, they asked me to develop some web content for them. I told them that I would like to write songs and I had written a song and some other compositions that Aanand L Rai liked. He asked me to pitch a song for Tanu Weds Manu Returns. We made Banoo Tera Swagger and then, there was no looking back.
Your recent song Baatein Karo crossed over 3 Million views on YouTube. Where did the idea of the song come from?
When I write songs, I don't think of an idea to begin with unless it's a brief by the client or film producer. But the songs that I put out as my singles or independent songs are the ones that happen to me subconsciously.
Nowadays, there are several music composers, singers, lyricists in the industry and the competition is quite tough. How do you deal with it?
I don't really think about competition because I'm at a good place now where I can make my own kind of music and Sony Music is backing me so I'm quite happy with that. As long as they are believing in me, are ready to invest in me, I don't think about competition. I just want to make my next song better than the previous one. I'm just here to make music. I think art is something which doesn't dwell on competition.
Earlier, the songs had a stronger recall value. Do you think it has reduced considerably now?
To an extent I agree that the recall value has reduced but the answer is so many songs coming out every week. I think this is the time of trends that if the song is trending it becomes a hit. Earlier, it was just on TV and radio and now it's all there on social media. Plus, lesser songs were there on television and radio, while today, there are lots of them.
Don't you think the trend of remixes is getting a bit too much now?
Yes, I think it's getting a bit too much. Even in Shubh Mangal Zyada Saavdhan, we had made 6 original songs but only 3 remained and the remixed songs were picked up. We should take a break from remixes. We should not remix a song just for the heck of it. But if somebody comes up with a good idea of a remake then why not!
Isn't remixing songs an easy way out and hence the makers are cashing in on this trend?
See, music directors jinke kaam ko producers touch nahi karte, their music albums have originals but in our case, they don't pay much heed to what we are creating. So yes, it is an easier way out. I think remixes are an easy way out for the producers who are making the films.
What is more important to you- validation from the audience or winning an award?
I think validation is most important because the audience needs to love you. As far as awards are concerned, I have been to them, and I would love to win one someday, but audience validation is above any award.
Tell us what's next on the cards?
I'm working on my other singles right now. Apart from that, I have some films, then I'm also helping out some friends and their singles.
What's more enjoyable- working on a Bollywood film or an independent music album?
I like Indie more. My approach towards song-making is pretty different from most of the songs. When I do Bollywood, sometimes I feel quite restricted, so I enjoy independent music much more.
Image Source:- Instagram/vayurus