When the song “Iktara” from “Wake Up Sid” released, many took notice of the earthy, mellow voice that rendered it. Kavita Seth was all over the airwaves, and the number scooped up several awards, including the Filmfare for Best Singer (Female) for 2009. But then, this wasn't her debut.
Her Hindi film debut came with the song “Maula” from the Satish Kaushik-directed “Vaada”, which she followed up with “Mujhe Mat Roko” in “Gangster”.
An accomplished Hindustani classical singer, Kavita is also an accredited AIR artiste. She has been giving Sufi music concerts regularly and has to her credit also a music album, “Sufiana”, which is her tribute to Maulana Rumi.
Which is that one song you wish you had sung?
Lots of old songs, actually. All the A.R. Rahman songs from “Guru”. But whenever I listen to “Jaage hain” from the film I can't help wishing I had the opportunity to render it — simply because it is a good composition and not because I think I could have done a better job with it. (She then hums “Jaage hain der tak, hamen kuch der sone do, thodi se raat aur hai, subah to hone do” over on the phone)
Has life changed after ‘Iktara'?
Of course. I don't need to introduce myself now; people already know about me. Earlier when I met people to discuss working together, I had to give a detailed profile of myself. Not anymore. That recognition came from “Iktara”. Now people don't ask me ‘What do you do?' or ‘What's your field?' Otherwise, I continue to do what I was doing. My riyaaz continues.
Things to watch out for…
The song “Mora piya” in Prakash's Jha's “Raajneeti”. I've also released an album on artistaloud.com. It's a good way to directly connect to your audience. It's my attempt to connect with the younger audience through new technology.
Which music composers do you want to work with in the future?
A.R. Rahman. It's my dream to work with him. In fact, I even gave him some of my sample recordings when I met him the last time. Other than that, there are so many music directors in Mumbai. I'm willing to work with anyone — young or old, new or experienced.
If you had to perform a duet with one singer, who would it be?
Elton John and Bryan Adams. I love Bryan Adams' voice, and Elton John is so soulful. I wish one day I could compose a small Sufi piece and get Elton John to sing it….
