“All my girls we be stopping the traffic; Seeti mar mar mamu ke maafic; Kalina to Colaba in a classic; Lo sekha du tujhe Mumbai magic.” These catchy lyrics from the song ‘Mumbai Magic’ resonate with the pulsating life of Mumbai, capturing its essence and exuding the city’s unbreakable spirit. The track is a collaborative masterpiece crafted by Los Angeles-based singer-songwriters Natania Lalwani and Subhi and graced by the melodious voice of renowned Bollywood vocalist Shalmali Kholgade. Brought to life by the music label Desi Trill, this song is a testament to the city often referred to as the heart of India.
A transcendental experience occurred during a productive session in London where Natania and Subhi, along with producer DJ Lyan, found inspiration for ‘Mumbai Magic.’ Upon hearing the preliminary track, the artists were immediately engulfed by a wave of nostalgia for the bustling Indian metropolis. The rich tapestry of sounds engulfing Mumbai, from the cacophony of its traffic to the vibrant life on its streets, was nostalgically evoked in their distant setting in London. Natania reflects on this profound moment, emphasizing the intense yearning for home that fueled the creative process of the song.
Despite her absence in London, Shalmali channels this sentiment, sharing her own experiences of longing for Mumbai while abroad. The vivid memories of the city, from the ubiquity of rickshaws to its boisterous noises, come to the fore when far from its shores. This collective emotional connection, felt by all present in that London room, paved the way for an authentic and heartfelt expression of their relationship with Mumbai.
The songwriting process for ‘Mumbai Magic’ was a synergistic affair, where Natania and Subhi melded their ideas seamlessly. The collaboration was alive with spontaneity and mutual inspiration, transcending the individual contributions of each artist. When the basic structure of the song materialized, Natania realized the need for another female voice to amplify the song’s impact. She instinctively reached out to Shalmali to lend her vocal prowess to the project.
Shalmali recalls her playful response to this pitch and her genuine excitement to be a part of the passionate project. Having worked with Natania previously and shared creative energies with many inspiring personalities through her, Shalmali admired the tenacity and dedication of her co-artist. Her immediate yes to contributing to ‘Mumbai Magic’ highlights the strong camaraderie and mutual respect among the trio involved in the project.
The making of the music video for ‘Mumbai Magic’ was a hectic yet exhilarating experience, encapsulating the very essence of Mumbai itself. Despite the strenuous schedule, the artists found joy in the chaos and unpredictability, mirroring the dynamics of the city. Throughout the shoot, the team navigated through challenges, including venue changes, reflecting the city’s ever-adaptive nature.
For each artist, Mumbai represents a unique facet of their aspirations and identities. Natania envisions the city as both a nostalgic place of comfort and a land brimming with limitless possibilities. Subhi, perceiving the city as a vibrant cultural milieu, considers Mumbai a realm that fosters ambitions and the pursuit of success. Shalmali, a true ‘Mumbai chi mulgi’ (daughter of Mumbai), relishes the inclusive embrace of the city and the profound sense of belonging it imparts to its inhabitants.
In infusing their melodies with personal reflections and connections to Mumbai, the artists have succeeded in creating a universal tribute that resonates with anyone who holds the city close to their hearts. ‘Mumbai Magic’ goes beyond mere lyrical expressions; it embodies the life, soul, and undying pulse of Mumbai, inviting listeners to bask in its enchanting allure. Through this song, the artists celebrate the spirit of Mumbai, uniting those who love the city in a harmonious reflection of its singular magic.
