B usy days are ahead for Vijay Yesudas! The playback singer-turned-actor is playing the lead in Dhanasekar’s Padai Veeran . In the meantime, his songs in Malayalam and Tamil are rocking the charts and more songs are in the making. He is also one of the judges of ‘Super Star Junior’, a music-based reality show for children that is being aired on Amrita TV. In the midst of interviews and shoots, Chennai-based Vijay spends a little time to talk about his different avatars.
Your song in Gautam Menon’s Simbu-starrerAchcham Enbathu Madamaiyada, composed by A.R. Rahman, is winning you raves for your voice and the way it has been sung…
It is always a pleasure to sing for Rahman sir. But there is a little history to that song. Bharatidaasan’s lyrics were initially composed by Rahman sir for Mani Ratnam’s OK Kanmani . After it was all done, Mani Ratnam decided not to use the song. After that when Rahman sir played the song for Gautham Menon, he liked it and decided to use it for his new film. Then we had to do the re-recording and there were changes made in the tune and I recorded it again. I am glad the song is doing well. Both critics and music lovers have liked the song ‘Avalum Naanum…’
Last year [2015], you had some chartbusters to your credit in Malayalam. This year also you have begun well with memorable numbers that are on everyone’s lips…
It is a lucky break and a blessing to get good songs. I have a couple of good songs coming up. I have a song in the upcoming Pa. Va and Mammootty-starrer White .
I can’t say a singer has much choice in his selection of songs. Music directors have to feel that a particular song would sound good in your voice.
After an impressive act with Dhanush inMaari, you are playing the lead inPadai Veeran…
I am playing the lead in a film that is being directed by Dhanasekar. He was Mani Ratnam’s assistant and this is his debut directorial venture. At present, my character is being kept under wraps and so I can’t reveal anything about the film.
I am certainly enjoying my stint before the camera. Be it music or acting, I believe in giving my best to both. It is a question of involvement.
As judge of ‘Super Star Junior’
This is a show that I have participated in as judge in a previous edition. Sujatha chechi [Sujatha Mohan] and Stephen chettan [Stephen Devassy] are the other judges on the panel of ‘Super Star Junior’. They are great fun to work with. I don’t believe in holding myself back from the children. I am full on in the show. It is amazing to see the kind of talent we have from all over Kerala. All of us are having a great time.
Any advice for young singers and participants of reality shows?
It is simple. Don’t let these kind of competitions define who you are and your kind of work. They must see these shows as stepping stones and an experience. Don’t get disheartened by failure.
Just see that as an opportunity to better your work and keep learning.
