EXCLUSIVE: Usha Uthup talks about NH7 Weekender and shares secret behind her ELECTRIFYING live performances: “Every performance of 'Darling' or 'Dum Maro Dum' is unique..."; talks about her biopic plans: "Some producers have asked Vidya Balan..."

Usha Uthup will be singing live at the NH7 Weekender, which will be held on December 14 and 15, 2024 in Pune. The legendary singer stands out as she has a sprawling fan following across all age groups and every single time, she excites the audience with her live performances, leaving them wanting for more. Bollywood Hungama exclusively spoke to Usha Uthup about NH7 Weekender and a lot more.

Belated Happy Birthday! How was your birthday celebration? This year actually, I didn’t have much of a celebration. I went to my studio in the morning. Most importantly, my daughter came down from Cochin, as did my grandson and my son-in-law, for my birthday, which was lovely. My son is here with me in Kolkata. It was nice that they were here. But there was also a huge amount of sadness because I had just lost my husband. So, we weren't celebrating or anything like that. But since they were here, it was heartening. I went to the studio and my studio technicians and everybody in the studio got together and gave me a lovely cake. I bought some patties and other snacks for them to eat. Hence, it was a great morning that I spent with my studio people and the technicians. And then of course the rest of the day was with the family which was also lovely. I thank God, and I am full of gratitude for every moment that He gives us which is so much better than so many people we know.

How was 2024 for you? Did it become extra special because of the Padma Bhushan honour? It was so wonderful because my husband also came to Delhi with me; the whole family was there. It was so marvellous; we all enjoyed basking in the glory of Rashtrapati Bhavan, which was truly marvellous. I would like to thank my country, government and all the people who recognize my work. You know when you work without expecting anything in return, it’s wonderful. Having said that, I would also like to say that one has to work with a passion and a focus, that – this is what you want out of your music – to prove to yourself what you believe in. Music has no barriers, caste, gender, colour, creed, language, age or sex. That's what makes it so wonderful. Despite having no formal musical training or background at all, I have been able to work on different kinds of projects.  Through music, the work has brought a smile to someone’s face, and I think people recognize that and appreciate that.

Your live performances are exciting and it charges up the attendees every single time. What's the secret? - My secret every time is to reinvent. Even when I sing songs like ‘Dum Maro Dum’, ‘Darling’ or ‘Koi Yahan Nache Nache’, 3 million times, the 3 million and the first time that I would sing it, would be really different. As I’ve said before, music is not my business, communication is. I am always trying to look for better ways to communicate to you and send you my feelings, all the way.

What are your expectations from NH7 Weekender? Which songs can we expect you to perform on? It's going to be a mixed bag, and depending on the kind of crowd we see finally. They can definitely expect something in English and Hindi. I will do something in Marathi since we are in Pune. That will be really exciting and whatever other languages that people want to listen to, I will sing.

NH7 Weekender is quite talked about and one of the most awaited events of the year. What makes it so special not just for artists but also for fans, in your opinion? I think, under one name of NH7, you have so many artists coming together from different parts of India and now globally as well. That is very wonderful and it really kindles the fire within the fans. As far as I am concerned, I am really excited to be a part of this because this is something completely different. We’ve done other music festivals in different cities, but NH7 for me is the closest to being a cracker of a show.

You said that you'd love Vidya Balan or Bhumi Pednekar for your biopic. Vidya has always maintained that she's excited to bag the coveted part. Have you tried to get any filmmaker to make a film on your life? Yes, some producers have asked her. But at the moment, nothing is happening because the market is really tight. They are waiting for the right time to make it happen.

Your stint on Instagram has been loved, especially your rendition of Miley Cyrus’ ‘Flowers’ and Adele’s ‘Skyfall’. Has social media proved to be a boon for you? I feel wonderful. It's been worth it. I always say that music has no barriers. What is Miley Cyrus’s age, where am I and what am I singing and what is the youth thinking, youth who will be coming to NH7, all responsible citizens of India and how they would be reacting to someone who is singing ‘Ramba Ho’ and shifting to ‘Flowers’ at the next moment. It is quite fascinating.

It is often said that songs nowadays don't have that lasting and pleasing effect like the songs of 50s, 60s, 70s, 80s, 90s and even 2000s. Do you agree and what's your take? My take is that retro is where it is at. For any song to become a classic, you have to give it time. For example, the times when classics like 'Eena Meena Deeka' and 'Mera Naam Chin Chin Chu' were made, why is it that all the kids know them even today? It is because they were given the time. It’s been 40-50 years since I sang 'Ramba Ho' and more. Just give it the time that is needed, and it will become a classic. Even now, there is wonderful music being made, wonderful lyrics being written, great singers singing the songs, and great technology at their disposal. But the good will remain, and the bad or mediocre will be shifted out.

When can we see you singing and acting for a Hindi film again?  I am waiting for two-three things that have come up. I recently sang for Lucky Bhaskar starring Dulquer Salmaan in the lead. Also, in terms of when I will be coming in any film, well I am dying for it to happen too!

Also Read: Usha Uthup collaborates with British singer Apache Indian on bonus track ‘London Dreams’ for Assamese film Sikaar

from Featured Movie News | Featured Bollywood News - Bollywood Hungama https://ift.tt/1PltkzW
via IFTTT