Harshdeep Kaur is a playback singer better known for her Sufi renditions. She sings Hindi as well as Punjabi. She sang ‘Ik Onkar’ in Rang De Basanti apart from several other soulful songs. Her track ‘R.I.P.’ composed by AR Rahman was part of Oscar-winner Danny Boyle’s film 127 Hours. Apart from Rahman, she has also worked with pathbreaking musicians like Pritam, Vishal Shekhar and Amit Trivedi. She’s the only singer to have appeared on all four seasons of Coke Studio (India) on MTV.
Tell us how you got attracted towards Sufi genre?
I have been a big fan of Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan Saab, Abida Parveen-ji and Reshma. Their music is extremely soulful and connects you to the almighty. The poetry is meaningful and mesmerising too. This is one of the main reasons I was inclined towards Sufi music.
How do you feel about your journey in Bollywood so far?
My musical journey has been really beautiful. It was my childhood dream to become a playback singer and today I’m blessed to be a part of the Bollywood music industry and I’ve worked with almost every music director. It feels great when your dedication and hard work is recognised by the world.
Was the industry hostile or supportive in your initial days?
I have been very lucky to have met mostly nice people in the industry. I got a lot of encouragement from all music directors.
What do you enjoy the most, playback singing or live performances?
I love both! The process of learning a new song and then recording it on the mic is a beautiful experience. You play with the notes and try different styles of singing. Live performance, on the other hand, gives you an opportunity to connect and interact with your audience. And you have to be really good on stage as there are no retakes.
What’s your opinion about online music sharing?
Nowadays digital media plays a pivotal role in establishing an artist. On one click you can listen any artist or music from any corner of the world. The internet is your stage now!
Have you ever been at the receiving end of misgovernance?
There are a lot of things which needs to be done in our country. Sometimes I feel there should be more facilities, better infrastructure and better health benefits to every citizen.
How was your last journey in Indian Railways?
My last train journey was long ago. Train journeys are always interesting because you interact with strangers who are traveling with you. But I feel that people/travelers should try and help the authorities to keep the trains clean and maintained.
Do you have any sarkari app in your smartphone?
No. My phone has mostly all music apps :)
Can you tell us about your upcoming projects?
I’ve recorded songs for Amit Trivedi and Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy which are going to release soon. I’ll be performing in Delhi with the legendary Gurdas Mann saab [on March 31] and I will also be touring North America with music director Pritam.
What do you do when not busy with singing projects?
I love traveling. So my husband and I make sure we leave the city and explore new places whenever we get time off.
What message would you like to give to aspiring musicians?
Always follow your dreams. And if you are talented you must work hard and take some formal training. Learning your art is very crucial.
