The Wikipedia entry for Mano credits the singer for singing more than 3000 songs, across seven languages, and for conducting 3000 live concerts. Going through this staggeringly big volume of work is akin to searching for a drop of water in a sea. Nevertheless, on his birthday here are five popular tracks from his discography.
‘Nila Kaayum Neram’ – Chembaruthi (1992)
Ilayaraaja ropes Mano and S. Janaki together to sing this romantic duet. Possessing all the qualities of a typical 90’s romantic duet – a proper structure of pallavi, anupallavi and charanam, the song’s video (pictured on Roja and a super-young Prashanth) also consists of occasional beautiful shots. Incidentally, Mano has sung close to 2000 songs for Ilayaraaja.
‘Kathoram Lolakku’ – Chinna Mappillai (1993)
Mano teams up with Ilayaraaja and S. Janaki yet again but for a song that’s totally different in mood. A fun song picturised on Prabhu and Sukanya, with outlandish dance steps. The choreography might have become obsolete but not the song.
‘Mukkala Mukkabla’ – Kadhalan (1994)
Probably one of Mano’s biggest hits till date, the song became a success in almost all languages it got dubbed into. While part of that reason has also got to do with its picturisation that is centred on Prabhu Deva’s dance moves, the role played Mano is significant too. His powerful rendition of the title phrase of the song alone is a testament to that.
‘Thillana Thillana’ – Muthu (1995)
Lending his voice to Rajinikanth, and that too for an A.R. Rahman composition, Mano modulates his voice as the song switches character between powerful and melodious during the pallavi and charanam. Aptly complimenting him is Sujatha who’s humming portions are a delight to hear.
‘Aayirathil Naan Oruvan’ – Iruvar (1997)
Collaborating with A.R.Rahman yet again but this time for a solo song, Mano lends his voice to Mohanlal who plays M.G.R in this movie. The song requires Mano’s voice to remain in high pitch for the most part. Also adding to the song is Mohanlal’s fluid movements and Santhosh Sivan’s camera that hardly remains static.
Image Courtesy: Telugu360
