Arijit Singh, Gurdas Maan, AR Rahman are among the singers and composers who possess the ability to mesmerize listeners with their melodious voices and instrumental prowess.
India’s music industry is as diverse and rich as its culture. Over the years, we’ve witnessed numerous musicians who have mastered various instruments, contributing significantly to the global recognition of Indian music. These artists are not only charismatic and talented but also possess the ability to enthrall listeners with their melodious voices and instrumental brilliance.
Here are six Indian singers known for their association with specific instruments:
Gurdas Maan:
A legendary figure from Punjab, Gurdas Maan has elevated Indian music to the global stage, maintaining his dominance in the Indian music industry for decades. He is known for introducing the dafli into his performances, an instrument that has become synonymous with his name. The heartwarming story behind how he started playing the dafli adds a unique charm to his persona. To this day, Maan is the only singer who incorporates the dafli in each of his live shows, making it an integral part of his performances.
Gurdas Maan, with his rich, folk-inspired repertoire, not only took Punjabi music to international platforms but also brought regional instruments into the limelight. The dafli isn’t just a musical instrument in his hands; it becomes an extension of his artistic expression. The rhythmic beats he produces resonate deeply with his audiences, creating an ambiance that is both electrifying and emotionally stirring.
AR Rahman:
Known as the “Mozart of Madras,” AR Rahman is a musical genius who has mastered a variety of instruments, including keyboards, piano, harmonium, percussions, drums, guitar, accordion, harp, and synthesizer. His ability to seamlessly integrate these instruments into his compositions has revolutionized Indian film music and earned him international acclaim.
AR Rahman’s multifaceted skills have allowed him to push the boundaries of conventional music. With numerous accolades, including Academy Awards, his work stands as a testament to his versatility. Rahman’s compositions often feature a blend of traditional Indian instruments and contemporary sounds, creating symphonic masterpieces that appeal to both domestic and international audiences. The depth and breadth of his instrument skills have made him a global ambassador for Indian music.
Adnan Sami:
Adnan Sami is famous for playing the piano. He’s widely recognized for his exceptional piano skills, often performing live with this instrument and showcasing his talent across various genres.
Adnan Sami’s prowess on the piano has enchanted audiences around the world. Often referred to as the “fastest keyboard player in the world,” Sami’s dexterity and emotive playing style has made the piano an integral part of his musical identity.
. His ability to traverse different genres—from classical to contemporary—while anchoring his performances with the piano sets him apart. His live concerts are a euphoric blend of powerful vocals and intricate piano pieces, creating moments of pure musical magic.
Salim-Sulaiman:
Salim-Sulaiman, the renowned composer duo, have left a lasting impact on the Indian music scene by making specific instruments iconic in their performances. Salim Merchant’s mastery of the piano and keyboard infuses their live shows with unique energy, while their seamless blend of electronic beats with classical sounds, including the harmonium and percussion, has become their signature.
This iconic duo’s concert performances are a testament to their innovative fusion of sounds. The introduction of electronic elements combined with classical instruments such as the harmonium and varied percussion brings a unique dimension to their music. Salim’s piano performances are especially noteworthy for their virtuosic elegance, which complements Sulaiman’s dynamic percussion, making each performance a high-energy, immersive experience.
Arijit Singh:
Arijit Singh, one of India’s most beloved playback singers, has made the guitar an essential part of his musical identity. Known for his soulful voice and emotive performances, Arijit often accompanies himself on the guitar during his live concerts, adding a personal touch to his renditions.
The guitar has become synonymous with Arijit’s performances, reflecting his versatility and the raw, heartfelt emotion that defines his music. His acoustic renditions, often spotlighted by his guitar skills, add a layer of intimacy to his concerts, making them deeply immersive experiences for the audience. His ability to convey complex emotions through his voice and guitar playing makes him a standout performer in the Indian music landscape.
Shankar Mahadevan:
Shankar Mahadevan, a versatile playback singer and composer, is also recognized for his skills on the keyboard and harmonium. Whether it’s a classical piece or a modern fusion, Mahadevan’s ability to seamlessly blend his vocals with these instruments has made him a standout artist in the Indian music scene.
Mahadevan’s rich vocal texture, combined with his adept handling of keyboard and harmonium, brings a unique resonance to his performances. His versatility allows him to effortlessly bridge the gap between classical Indian music and contemporary sounds. Whether he’s delivering a high-energy Bollywood number or a soulful classical piece, the interplay between his voice and instrumental skills stands as a testament to his exceptional talent.
These six musicians have not only made their mark as singers but have also become synonymous with the instruments they play, leaving an indelible impact on the world of music. Their contributions continue to shape the landscape of Indian music, ensuring it remains vibrant and globally recognized. Their unique blending of vocals with instruments creates a symphony that resonates deeply with audiences, making their performances unforgettable.
