Indian playback singer Shaan, who will be performing at the Esplanade Theatre tonight as part of Kalaa Utsavam – Indian Festival of Arts 2024, says it won’t just be his mellifluous voice on display but also his recently honed dancing skills.
In 2011, the musician performed at the Singapore venue to wide appreciation, and was thrilled by the reception he received.
This time, the 52-year-old, who has recorded more than 3,000 songs – including for Bollywood films – over a career spanning three decades, has come with a new act that showcases his varied repertoire and dancing chops.
“My songs will cover different emotions and genres,” he told tabla!. “But, importantly, I will be showcasing my dancing skills which I have developed recently.
“The songs are sequenced in such a way that each one leads to the next with loads of surprise mashups and exciting moments. Even the lights and projections will be impressive.”
Shaan, whose real name is Shantanu Mukherjee, is the man behind popular tunes such as Chand Sifarish from romantic thriller Fanaa (2006) and Jab Se Tere Naina from the musical Saawariya (2007).
With a unique vocal style that lends itself well to upbeat tracks, he has produced notable Bollywood party anthems such as “It’s The Time To Disco” from Kal Ho Naa Ho and “Koi Kahe Kehta Rahe” from Dil Chahta Hai.
“I’ve been fortunate to have sung in many different genres and styles,” he said. “And, over the years, I’ve been able to stay relevant with changing trends. As a live performer, I keep adding new elements to my act and upgrade the sound and feel of the show.”
One surprise Shaan could spring at the Esplanade tonight is his son Maahi joining him on stage.
When asked about this, the singer was tight-lipped about the possibility.
Maahi, 19, is making a mark as a singer and recently signed an exclusive contract with Saregama, India’s oldest music label.
Shaan’s eldest son Soham, 22, is already an in-demand music producer who works with indie music acts.
“Both my sons are actively and professionally into music. I’m very proud of my boys,” he said.
Shaan, who was born in Mumbai to a musical family, also owns independent music label Shaan Music, which he describes as a passion project.
“Having the independence to make your music as you desire is definitely a big plus, and I get a chance to connect with my core audience through the kind of music I enjoy making,” he said.
Shaan, who has been a judge on reality singing competitions such as The Voice India (2015 to 2019) and Super Singer (2019 to 2023), is also a mentor to younger talent these days.
At this year’s Cannes film festival, he introduced three young pop stars from India, including Maahi.
“Every voice has its own USP (unique selling point),” he said. “One must strive to find that special quality and keep pushing to improve through practice and having an open mind.
“There’s no dearth of new singing talents in Bollywood, but I am especially excited about the rising trend of non-Bollywood singer-songwriters making their mark and gaining immense popularity.”
With more serious-themed and fast-paced thrillers gaining popularity in Bollywood, the scope for song and dance has shrunk slightly – but Shaan believes romantic musicals still have an audience.
“Music and melody go hand in hand and Bollywood has been known for musicals,” he said.
“Any film with popular songs has always been a hit and I can sense musicals coming back in a big way to mainstream Bollywood again.”
