Movies are not conceived in isolation. Every aspiring director in Tamil cinema today will harbour memories of watching a Nayagan or a 16 Vayadhiniley on screen; every young actor will speak of how Kamal Haasan and Sivaji Ganesan inspired them; and every aspiring music director will have a favourite Ilaiyaraaja song. Each week, Silverscreen talks to a different celebrity to find the sparks that triggered their creativity – the films, the music, the writing, the photographs and the locations.
Music Director K made his debut through Mysskin’s Yuddham Sei. His work for the film was fresh, intense and much-appreciated. Later, the young director composed some raw, rustic tunes for Rajeev Ravi’s Malayalam film Annayum Rasoolum. We asked this young composer of diverse, deep music to list out his favourite songs. He’s initially a bit reluctant to whittle it down to a manageable number. After some gentle persuasion, he tells us about the five songs that he continue to inspire him.
Because by The Beatles
There’s almost no instruments in this one. Just the four voices.It’s got a classical influence as well. The overall effect is very intense and haunting.
Battle of Evermore by Led Zeppelin
This song transports you to another world. Every time I listen to it, I feel so. It features a Mandolin piece and is quite eerie. For some reason, I always think of the Lord of the Rings when I listen to it.
What The World Needs Now – Burt Bacharach
Burt Baccharach is one of my most favourite composers. This song in particular is a lovely mix of easy listening music and pop. It was featured in the Austin Powers film – International Man of Mystery. The first time I heard it was around the time that I was first introduced to western music and so it had deep impact on me, I would say. It has a simple but very enjoyable tune plus a beautiful voice.
Our House – Crosby Stills Nash Young
This song gives you a very warm feeling. It’s about two people starting a family together, or so I think. I’m sure it has some other deeper meaning.
Theme Music – Sigappu Rojakkal
I’m a huge huge Ilaiyaraaja fan. I love all his work. But if I were to choose something that inspires me then I would choose the title music from this film. This piano based theme crops up every now and then throughout the film. It’s very cool and retro. It’s beautiful really. Classical music combined with Ilaiyaraaja. That’s an explosive combination.
