With Deepavali just around the corner, singer Vijay Prakash exuded a sense of musical celebration, capturing the festive mood of the audience in his live concert on Sunday night.
From the moment he started opener ‘Hosanna’ from Vinnaithaandi Varuvaayaa , Vijay Prakash and his seven-piece band’s energy got audiences at the concert hall of The Vijaya Forum Mall, Vadapalani, into a frenzy.
The crowd erupted into cheers and applause when the frontman, clad in a black jacket, ascended on stage. The excitement grew only stronger as he performed ‘Govinda Govinda’ from Engaeyum Eppothum, with the crowd singing the lyrics along with him.
The singer went on to perform chart-busters like ‘Innum Konjam Naeram’ ( Maryan ) and ‘Kadhal Anukkal’ ( Enthiran ). ‘Super Singer’ fame Parvathy Menon, female vocalist, accompanied him along with the other musicians on stage.
His ‘Om Sivoham’ from Naan Kadavul was electrifying, and had the audience clapping and cheering. Responding to audience demand, Vijay Prakash signed off with his signature song ‘Jai Ho’ from Slumdog Millionaire .
Here’s what the singer told us in a quick chat…
You have been in the music industry for almost 18 years and have earned the tag of being a ‘versatile singer’…
It is definitely my parents' prayers that have worked for me. I didn’t spend 18 years doing film music; I have done voice overs for almost 10,000 commercials before AR Rahman sir and Illaiyaraaja sir happened. Today, when people call me a versatile singer, I am thankful to all those jingles and commercials that I did.
You were one of the four singers credited for the popular ‘Jai Ho’, composed by A.R.Rahman…
That song still holds a special place in my heart; it was an unexpected surprise. It was a very kind gesture on his part to invite me on stage at Los Angeles when he received the Grammy. That moment was priceless. I personally think there is a certain level of spirituality in everything Rahman does.
You have performed in several languages – do you see any difference while doing so?
You need to love the language you sing in. You also need to know the feeling associated with the song you’re delivering; it helps you gain command over the language.
You have also composed music for a film; tell us about that role...
When you are a singer, you need to convince only your music director. But when you are the music director of a film, it’s a greater responsibility. While I enjoyed the one film I did as composer, I don’t think I’ll take up more assigned as my schedule is jam-packed and I travel most of the time.
