He is just three songs old in Bollywood. While Udan Choo from Banjo is his latest release, Maaloom and Tu Shining from Lekar Hum Deewana Dil were his earlier ones. However, young Hriday Gattani has been an active part of the industry since childhood, thanks to his father's career in music management. The singer grew up watching great artistes perform live and was surrounded by musicians in his formative years, which helped him understand the art and hone his skills.In a candid chat, the vocalist talks about his latest track and more...

Tell us about Udan Choo...
This song is really special. I had been performing as an independent singer-songwriter at various music festivals. It was at one of those that I met Vishal Dadlani sir. He appreciated my work and said he wanted Shekhar Ravjiani to listen to my voice. Shekhar sir heard my tracks and said that he wanted me to sing Udan Choo.

What was the brief given to you?
The first time I heard the track, I loved it and figured it wasn't as simple as it sounded. The melody grows on you gradually. They briefed me about the situation - that it would be picturised on Riteish Deshmukh and is a dream sequence sung by a person in love. Shekhar sir also added that he wanted it to be simple yet playful, which was something I kept in mind while singing the number.

Today, there are many new talented singers in the industry. Does that scare you?
Not really. That's because I feel every artiste has a unique style and voice. It is important to be yourself and not copy anyone. Also, I'm working on my independent music and I know I can reach out to people, because all types of music have an audience.

What do you have to say about the cutthroat competition in the industry?
It's great in a way, because you will never get complacent and keep working on yourself. Also, the audience gets a huge variety to listen to.

Do you feel singers with raw talent can actually make it big in Bollywood?
Music is a vast field of art and I think it'll always be open for fresh perspectives and ideas. So, raw talent that brings in originality will always be welcomed and appreciated.

Many singers prefer performing in live shows as it helps them rake in the moolah as compared to singing for movies. What are your views about this trend?
Songs are a medium to get live concerts. I believe that a song to your name is valued as an addition to your repertoire, which in return will get you more concerts. Live shows help an artiste earn more. As there are no retakes, talent gets tested in real time.

You have worked closely with A R Rahman. How was the experience?
Rahman sir has always been like my mentor and guide. I've learnt so much just by listening to his songs. When I was studying music in Chennai, I spent a lot of time at his studio, just observing him and his team work on albums; it was the most important learning experience of my life. Touring with him on some of his live concerts brought alive a new side of me on stage. He gave me complicated songs to sing in front of thousands of people, and this faith gave a boost to my confidence. It has made me want to work harder every day. His support has helped me a lot in my career.