'I am not interested in composing'

Sonu Nigam is out with an album after a four-year break. What was he doing? And where does his acting career stand? He bares all to Jyothi Venkatesh.

Why have you concentrated on melody and romance this time?

I carried out a small survey over a year ago. I was astonished to find out that every one wanted romance and melody. I could have come up with a dance track or a bhangra track since I'd worked on those lines too.

I had come up with a couple of albums with Magna Sound but I opted for T Series. Let's face it. All said and done, T Series is the biggest music company when it comes to marketing.

Who would you credit for reviving the music scene today?

I'd say it is Tarun Katial of Sony TV, who has had the foresight to make pop idols of nobodies like Amit Sana, Abhijeet Sawant etc. by launching the Indian Idols contest.

Are you now open to composing for films too?

I am not interested in composing for films. I am happy as a singer and music directors know that I will never interfere in their sphere.

What is Chanda Ki Doli's USP?

For the first time, I have included a hardcore qawwali. The tone of the song is romantic. The album's USP is that the mid tempo and the orchestration of songs differ.

My aim as a singer is to reach the masses as well as the classes instead of trying to impress only the so-called classes.

Your stint as an actor is dismal. Why?

I have been getting offers after Chanda Ki Doli. However, it is the box office which is the deciding factor. I am neither a star son nor do I have a godfather.

My image as a singer precedes me and I will never thrust myself as an actor. If my movies did not do well, how can you blame me?

I cannot force a producer to release a film on time. I felt let down by T.P. Aggarwal who released Love In Nepal six months after it was ready.

If a movie doesn't reach people on time, what's the use? In future, I will look only for banners. And pick my offers with care.

How would you evaluate your growth as a singer?

Kumar Sanu at least sang in beer bars before his break in films. I was worse than Sanu. I used to sing on the streets and in parties since the age of 3. There is no end to learning.

I am much better now, rendition-wise, range-wise, expression-wise and in terms of confidence and versatility.

I am now 31. Though I am now strong, my voice will deteriorate after 40. Of course, there are exceptions to the rule.