Bollywood music industry is one of the fiercest fields ever. Kailash Kher took to the roots and based his quest to climb music ladder by leveraging Sufi style. Today Kher is one of the most admired pop-rock music singers, known for his fan following and openness.
It is also a testament to the strength and appeal of what is undeniably one of the most unique voices in Indian music today. He has sung in 18 languages for Indian films and in over 300 songs for Bollywood. Kher is not only one of the most loved Indian artists internationally, but also among the most respected for his modest and inspiring lifestyle. The Sufi music icon says that folk music, which preceded mainstream music, has its place secure in the annals of music and it can never go out of style.
Kailash Kher and Kailasa released their first album, Kailasa, in 2006, which resulted in the smash hits “Teri Deewani” and “Tauba Tauba.” This was followed in 2007 by their second album Jhoomo Re, which was also a critical and commercial success. In 2008, Kher was invited to become a judge on the television series Indian Idol, the local version of the successful singing competition.
With his bubbly spirit and an infectious, expansive personality, Kher endeared himself to the Indian mainstream. It is impossible for Kher to walk the streets anywhere in India without his being besieged by adoring autograph seekers. He has earned even further admiration for the openness with which he treats his fans.
In 2007, Kher participated in a concert tour in the US, Canada and the Caribbean entitled The Incredibles. While the show allowed Kher to perform in front of huge audiences at major amphitheaters, it was his appearance with Kailasa at the January 2008 edition of GlobalFest at New York’s Webster Hall where Kher’s true artistry was on display.
The group’s performance that evening electrified the audience, and proved to be the first step in launching Kher’s career as a global world music star.
Ritu Maheshwari interviewed Kailash Kher for India Post during his recent visit to SF Bay Area.
Ritu: How do you feel visiting Bay area?
Kailash Kher: It feels great to be in Bay area. Over many visits to US, I find that Bay area always gives lot of positive experiences. Bay area fans are most lively and energetic of all. It makes me feel like I am in India. I can feel the warmth everywhere and that is what an artist looks for to thrive and survive. I am going to have a live chat with fans on Facebook and try to build a strong music community.
Ritu: What changes do you see in the music industry over the years?
KK: Over the years, more than music, how music is received and appreciated has changed.
A lot of music lovers have become passive listeners, with many means of getting music, some legitimate and some not, have come up. Fans need to get energetic in supporting the music and artist. I see some evidence of that happening, but we have long way to go.
Ritu: What is your message to youngsters?
KK: I wish my fans all the best and invite them to come to my show in large numbers. When they are satiated with the music, they will be able to make progress in life, as music soothes the soul and propels one towards success.
Ritu Maheshwari
India Post News Service
