Arijit Singh: The Soulful Voice of Bollywood
| Date of Birth : 25th April 1987 |
| Place of Birth : Jiaganj, Murshidabad, West Bengal, India |
| Father : Kakkar Singh |
| Mother : Aditi Singh |
| Spouse/Partner : Koel Roy Singh |
| Alma Mater : Raja Bijay Singh High School |
| Professions : Playback Singer |
Overview
In the vast and diverse landscape of Indian music, one name stands out with an unparalleled resonance and emotional depth – Arijit Singh. Born on April 25, 1987, in Jiaganj, Murshidabad, West Bengal, Arijit Singh has emerged as a prolific playback singer, composer, and music producer in the Indian music industry. With his soul-stirring voice and the ability to convey deep emotions through his renditions, Arijit has carved a niche for himself, becoming a household name and earning the adoration of millions of music enthusiasts. In this article by Academic Block we will explore the life, work, and career of Arijit Singh.
Early Life and Musical Journey
Arijit Singh's journey in the world of music began at a very young age. Raised in a musical environment, he started his formal training in music at the age of three under the guidance of his mother, who herself was a trained classical singer. Arijit's early exposure to diverse musical genres, coupled with his innate talent, laid the foundation for his future success in the music industry.
The turning point in Arijit's life came with his participation in the reality show "Fame Gurukul" in 2005. Though he did not win the competition, his talent was unmistakable, and the exposure on a national platform opened doors for him. Arijit's journey continued as he honed his skills and lent his voice to various regional and Bollywood projects.
Bollywood Breakthrough
Arijit Singh's breakthrough in Bollywood came with the soul-stirring song "Tum Hi Ho" from the movie "Aashiqui 2" in 2013. Composed by Mithoon, this song became an instant sensation, and Arijit's heartfelt rendition struck a chord with listeners across the nation. The haunting melody and emotional depth of "Tum Hi Ho" catapulted Arijit Singh to stardom, earning him widespread acclaim and numerous awards.
Following this breakthrough, Arijit became the go-to singer for music directors and filmmakers seeking a voice that could convey the myriad emotions required in Bollywood songs. His versatile vocal range and ability to emote through his singing made him a favorite among music composers.
Musical Style and Versatility
One of the defining aspects of Arijit Singh's artistry is his remarkable versatility. Whether it's a soulful romantic ballad, a high-energy dance track, or a poignant classical composition, Arijit adapts seamlessly to the demands of the song. His ability to traverse different genres, from classical and semi-classical to pop and rock, sets him apart in an industry where versatility is highly prized.
Arijit's voice carries a unique blend of depth and vulnerability, making him the ideal choice for songs that require an emotional connection with the audience. His renditions often leave a lasting impact, creating an immersive experience for listeners. From the melancholic "Channa Mereya" to the peppy "The Breakup Song," Arijit Singh has showcased his ability to infuse life into diverse musical expressions.
Live Performances and Global Recognition
Arijit Singh's popularity is not confined to the studio or the silver screen. His live performances have become events that attract audiences in large numbers. Arijit's ability to recreate the magic of his recorded tracks in a live setting is a testament to his vocal consistency and stage presence.
His concerts, both in India and abroad, have drawn music lovers from diverse cultural backgrounds. Arijit's global recognition extends beyond the Indian diaspora, as his soulful renditions bridge linguistic and cultural gaps, creating a universal appeal.
Influences and Inspirations
Arijit Singh's musical journey has been shaped by a confluence of influences, ranging from classical stalwarts to contemporary music icons. His early exposure to classical music under the guidance of his mother laid the foundation for his understanding of the intricacies of melody and rhythm.
Arijit has expressed his admiration for legendary playback singers like Kishore Kumar and Mohammed Rafi, citing their emotive prowess and ability to convey the essence of a song as sources of inspiration. However, his style is uniquely his own, a blend of classical training, contemporary sensibilities, and an innate emotional connection to the music.
Beyond Bollywood: Arijit Singh as a Composer
Arijit Singh's talents extend beyond his remarkable singing prowess; he is also a proficient composer. He has lent his musical expertise to create compositions that resonate with audiences. His work as a composer reflects his deep understanding of musical nuances and a desire to explore new avenues within the realm of music creation.
Collaborations and Musical Partnerships
Arijit Singh's collaborations with various music composers and lyricists have played a pivotal role in shaping the contemporary sound of Bollywood music. His association with composers like Pritam, Mithoon, Jeet Gannguli, and A.R. Rahman has resulted in chart-topping hits that have become synonymous with the success of the films they belong to.
The chemistry between Arijit and these composers is evident in the seamless integration of his voice with their compositions. Each collaboration brings forth a unique sonic experience, blending Arijit's emotive vocals with the distinct musical signatures of the composers.
Impact on Contemporary Bollywood Music
Arijit Singh's influence on contemporary Bollywood music is profound. His ability to infuse depth and emotion into every note has set a new standard for playback singing. Filmmakers and music directors often seek out Arijit for songs that require not just a singer but a storyteller who can convey the intricacies of human emotions through music.
In an industry that witnesses constant evolution in musical styles, Arijit's ability to adapt and excel across genres has made him an essential element of the Bollywood music landscape. His impact is not only measured in the commercial success of his songs but also in the emotional connect they establish with listeners.
Personal Life and Philanthropy
Arijit Singh is known for keeping his personal life private. He married his childhood friend Koel Roy in 2014, and the couple has two children. Despite his busy schedule, Arijit has been actively involved in philanthropic activities. He has supported various charitable causes, including initiatives related to education and healthcare.
Final Words
Arijit Singh's journey from a small town in West Bengal to the pinnacle of Indian music is nothing short of inspiring. His unparalleled voice, emotional depth, and versatility have made him a beloved figure in the hearts of millions of music enthusiasts. Whether through heart-wrenching ballads or foot-tapping dance numbers, Arijit has left an indelible mark on the Bollywood music scene.
As a playback singer, composer, and music producer, Arijit Singh continues to evolve and contribute to the ever-changing landscape of Indian music. His ability to transcend linguistic and cultural barriers has turned him into a global icon, and his concerts are eagerly awaited events across the world.
Arijit Singh's journey is a testament to the power of talent, dedication, and an unwavering passion for music. As he continues to mesmerize audiences with his soulful renditions, one can only wonder what new musical landscapes this maestro will explore in the years to come. Please provide your views in comment section to make this article better. Thanks for Reading!
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Arijit Singh is an acclaimed Indian playback singer and music composer known for his soulful and melodious voice. Born on April 25, 1987, in Jiaganj, Murshidabad, West Bengal, he has become one of the most popular and versatile singers in the Indian music industry, contributing to numerous Bollywood films and music albums.
Arijit Singh is famous for his unique voice and his ability to convey deep emotions through his singing. His versatility allows him to sing in various genres, including romantic ballads, classical, and contemporary music, making him a favorite among listeners. His breakthrough came with the song "Tum Hi Ho" from the movie Aashiqui 2, which catapulted him to stardom.
Arijit Singh started his singing career in 2005 when he participated in the reality show "Fame Gurukul," where he finished in sixth place. Despite not winning, he gained significant attention and later worked as a music programmer and assistant to music directors before establishing himself as a leading playback singer in the Indian film industry.
Arijit Singh specializes in a wide range of music genres, including Bollywood, classical, sufi, and contemporary music. His ability to adapt to different styles and genres has made him one of the most versatile singers in the Indian music industry, and his romantic ballads are particularly beloved by fans.
Arijit Singh's most popular songs include "Tum Hi Ho" from Aashiqui 2, "Channa Mereya" from Ae Dil Hai Mushkil, "Raabta" from Agent Vinod, "Ae Dil Hai Mushkil" title track, "Gerua" from Dilwale, "Kabira" from Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani, "Sooraj Dooba Hain" from Roy, "Zaalima" from Raees, and "Phir Le Aya Dil" from Barfi, among many others.
The top 10 songs of Arijit Singh include "Tum Hi Ho," "Channa Mereya," "Ae Dil Hai Mushkil," "Raabta," "Gerua," "Kabira," "Sooraj Dooba Hain," "Zaalima," "Phir Le Aya Dil," and "Muskurane." These songs showcase his vocal versatility and have been critically acclaimed and loved by audiences worldwide.
Arijit Singh has won numerous awards, including several Filmfare Awards for Best Male Playback Singer for songs like "Tum Hi Ho," "Sooraj Dooba Hain," and "Channa Mereya." He has also received National Film Awards, IIFA Awards, Zee Cine Awards, and Mirchi Music Awards, recognizing his exceptional contributions to the Indian music industry.
Arijit Singh sings in various languages, including Hindi, Bengali, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, Marathi, Gujarati, and Malayalam. His proficiency in multiple languages has expanded his reach and popularity across different regional music industries in India, making him a pan-Indian musical sensation.
Arijit Singh's debut Bollywood song was "Phir Mohabbat" from the movie Murder 2, released in 2011. The song was composed by Mithoon and received widespread acclaim, establishing Arijit as a promising new voice in the Indian music industry.
Arijit Singh sang "Tum Hi Ho" from the movie Aashiqui 2 for his wife, Koel Roy, at their wedding. The song is one of his most popular and romantic hits, and it holds a special place in his personal life as well as his musical career.
The controversy between Salman Khan and Arijit Singh began in 2014 during an award show where Arijit allegedly offended Salman with a comment. This incident reportedly led to Salman Khan dropping Arijit's songs from his films, despite their popularity. The feud has been widely publicized, although both have downplayed its significance in recent years.
Arijit Singh has made significant contributions to the music industry through his unique voice, versatility, and emotional depth in his singing. He has redefined contemporary playback singing in Bollywood, bringing a fresh and soulful approach to music. His collaborations with top composers and consistent delivery of hit songs have solidified his place as a leading artist in Indian music.
Quotes by Arijit Singh
“Music should be something that makes you gotta move, inside or outside.”
“Music has the power to make me feel good like nothing else does. It gives me some peace for a while. Takes me back to who I really am.”
“My journey has been quite fascinating. From a reality show contestant to a playback singer, it has been a roller coaster ride, and I have enjoyed every bit of it.”
“When I sing, I close my eyes and lose myself in the emotions of the song. That’s when I feel closest to the audience, when I can communicate my feelings through the music.”
“Music has no language. It’s a mode of expression that transcends boundaries and connects people at a deeper level.”
“I always try to keep things simple and honest. Music is about emotions and connecting with people. If you can convey the emotion, everything else falls into place.”
“The beauty of a song lies in its ability to transport you to a different place, evoke memories, and make you feel something deeply.”
“Every song has its own journey, its own emotions. As an artist, my job is to understand that journey and bring out the emotions in my rendition.”
“Success is unpredictable. You never know which song will strike a chord with the audience. It’s a beautiful uncertainty that keeps me excited about my work.”
“Lyrics are the soul of a song. They give the melody meaning and depth. As a singer, I always strive to do justice to the emotions embedded in the lyrics.”
Most famous Songs of Arijit Singh
“Tum Hi Ho” – “Aashiqui 2” (2013)
“Channa Mereya” – “Ae Dil Hai Mushkil” (2016)
“Raabta” – “Agent Vinod” (2012)
“Ae Dil Hai Mushkil” – “Ae Dil Hai Mushkil” (2016)
“Agar Tum Saath Ho” – “Tamasha” (2015)
“Dil Diyan Gallan” – “Tiger Zinda Hai” (2017)
“Enna Sona” – “OK Jaanu” (2017)
“Zaalima” – “Raees” (2017)
“Chhod Diya” – “Baazaar” (2018)
“Pal” – “Jalebi” (2018)
Controversies revolving around Arijit Singh
Public Apology to Salman Khan: One of the most high-profile controversies involving Arijit Singh was his public apology to Bollywood superstar Salman Khan during the Star Guild Awards in 2014. Arijit had sung a song for Salman’s film “Kick,” but the track was eventually dropped from the movie. During the awards ceremony, Arijit took the opportunity to apologize to Salman Khan publicly, expressing regret for any unintentional disrespect. The incident created a buzz in the media, and fans speculated about the reasons behind the removal of the song.
Deleted Tweets Directed at Music Composer Mithoon: In 2016, Arijit Singh made headlines when he posted a series of now-deleted tweets directed at music composer Mithoon. The tweets hinted at a rift between the two and suggested that Arijit felt neglected in the music industry. However, Arijit later clarified that his account was hacked and that he did not post those tweets. The incident raised questions about the vulnerability of celebrities on social media platforms.
Controversy with T-Series: Arijit Singh had a public fallout with T-Series, one of the prominent music production companies in India. In 2017, Arijit accused T-Series head Bhushan Kumar of destroying many careers and threatening to destroy his own. The singer claimed that Kumar had promised him work but did not fulfill his commitments. The controversy played out on social media, with Arijit’s post garnering mixed reactions from fans and industry insiders.
Legal Battle with Zee Music Company: Arijit Singh found himself embroiled in a legal dispute with Zee Music Company in 2019. The music label claimed that Arijit had violated the terms of his contract by collaborating with other music labels without seeking prior permission. Arijit, in turn, accused the music company of exploiting artists and not giving them due credit. The legal battle shed light on the complex contractual relationships that artists often navigate in the music industry.
Controversy Surrounding His Statement on Reality Shows: In 2019, Arijit Singh stirred a controversy with his comments about reality shows during an event. He expressed his discontent with the format of reality shows, stating that participants sign contracts that practically give away their lives. His remarks sparked debates about the ethics and impact of reality shows on aspiring musicians and the entertainment industry.
Awards won by Arijit Singh
Filmfare Awards: Filmfare Award for Best Male Playback Singer for “Tum Hi Ho” – “Aashiqui 2” (2014), Filmfare Award for Best Male Playback Singer for “Sooraj Dooba Hai” – “Roy” (2016), Filmfare Award for Best Male Playback Singer for “Channa Mereya” – “Ae Dil Hai Mushkil” (2017), Filmfare Award for Best Male Playback Singer for “Raabta” – “Agent Vinod” (2013), and Filmfare Award for Best Male Playback Singer for “Ae Watan” – “Raazi” (2019)
National Film Awards: National Film Award for Best Male Playback Singer for “Binte Dil” – “Padmaavat” (2019)
IIFA Awards: IIFA Award for Best Male Playback Singer for “Tum Hi Ho” – “Aashiqui 2” (2014), IIFA Award for Best Male Playback Singer for “Channa Mereya” – “Ae Dil Hai Mushkil” (2017), and IIFA Award for Best Male Playback Singer for “Raabta” – “Agent Vinod” (2013)
Zee Cine Awards: Zee Cine Award for Song of the Year for “Tum Hi Ho” – “Aashiqui 2” (2014), and Zee Cine Award for Best Male Playback Singer for “Raabta” – “Agent Vinod” (2013)
Stardust Awards: Stardust Award for Best Playback Singer – Male for “Tum Hi Ho” – “Aashiqui 2” (2014)
Screen Awards: Screen Award for Best Male Playback for “Tum Hi Ho” – “Aashiqui 2” (2014), and Screen Award for Best Male Playback for “Channa Mereya” – “Ae Dil Hai Mushkil” (2017)
Guild Awards: Star Guild Award for Best Male Playback Singer for “Tum Hi Ho” – “Aashiqui 2” (2014)
Mirchi Music Awards: Mirchi Music Award for Male Vocalist of the Year for “Tum Hi Ho” – “Aashiqui 2” (2014), and Mirchi Music Award for Male Vocalist of the Year for “Channa Mereya” – “Ae Dil Hai Mushkil” (2017)
Global Indian Music Academy Awards (GIMA): GIMA Award for Best Duet for “Raabta” with Shreya Ghoshal – “Agent Vinod” (2013), GIMA Award for Best Film Song for “Tum Hi Ho” – “Aashiqui 2” (2014), and GIMA Award for Best Film Song for “Channa Mereya” – “Ae Dil Hai Mushkil” (2017)
Facts on Arijit Singh
Early Musical Training: Arijit Singh began his musical training at a very young age under the guidance of his mother, who was a trained classical singer. His early exposure to classical music laid the foundation for his versatile vocal abilities.
Reality Show Fame: Arijit gained initial recognition through the reality show “Fame Gurukul” in 2005, although he didn’t win. His participation in the show provided him with a platform to showcase his talent to a broader audience.
Graduation in Music: Arijit Singh holds a bachelor’s degree in music from Sangeet Gurukul, a music academy in Mumbai. His formal education in music further enriched his understanding of musical nuances.
Assistant to Music Directors: Before making it big as a playback singer, Arijit worked as an assistant to various music directors. This experience behind the scenes gave him valuable insights into the music industry.
Bollywood Breakthrough with “Tum Hi Ho”: Arijit Singh shot to fame with the song “Tum Hi Ho” from the movie “Aashiqui 2” (2013). The song became a massive hit and won him several awards, including the Filmfare Award for Best Male Playback Singer.
Prolific Discography: Arijit Singh has an extensive discography, having sung in multiple languages, including Hindi, Bengali, Telugu, and more. His diverse range spans romantic ballads, peppy dance numbers, and soulful tracks, showcasing his versatility.
Multiple Filmfare Awards: Arijit has been honored with numerous Filmfare Awards for his outstanding contributions to the world of playback singing. His wins across different categories underscore his ability to excel in various musical genres.
Versatility in Genres: Arijit Singh’s versatility is one of his defining features. He seamlessly transitions between classical, semi-classical, and contemporary genres, making him a sought-after artist for a wide range of compositions.
Global Recognition: Arijit’s popularity extends beyond India, and he has performed in concerts around the world, captivating audiences with his soul-stirring voice. His global recognition highlights the universal appeal of his music.
Composer and Music Producer: Apart from being a playback singer, Arijit Singh is also a skilled composer and music producer. His foray into composing reflects his holistic understanding of music creation.
Philanthropic Initiatives: Arijit Singh is known for his involvement in philanthropic activities. He has supported various charitable causes, including initiatives related to education and healthcare.
Private Persona: Arijit is known for keeping his personal life private. Despite his celebrity status, he prefers to stay away from the limelight when it comes to his personal affairs.
Social Media Presence: Arijit Singh is active on social media platforms like Instagram and Twitter. While he maintains a relatively low profile, his posts often provide glimpses into his musical journey and personal interests.
Fan Following: Arijit Singh has a massive fan following, and his fans, often referred to as “Arijitians,” express unwavering support for his music. Social media platforms are abuzz with fan clubs dedicated to celebrating his work.
Continued Musical Exploration: Arijit Singh’s journey in the music industry continues to evolve, with him exploring new musical territories and collaborating with different composers. His commitment to artistic growth contributes to his enduring relevance in the industry.