Bollywood’s celebrated singer Sonu Nigam has sparked fresh debates in the music industry with his latest comments on Academy Award-winning composer AR Rahman. In an interview with O2 India, Sonu Nigam stated that while Rahman is an exceptional composer, he wouldn’t call him a “great” singer.
The statement has sent ripples across social media, with fans and critics dissecting his words. Nigam, known for his straightforward opinions, clarified that his remarks were not intended as criticism but as an honest observation of Rahman’s vocal abilities.
“He is not a very trained singer. The tone of his voice is very nice,” Sonu Nigam said. “He wouldn’t call himself a great singer, so what can we say? He knows his texture is beautiful, but he has never claimed to be a great singer.”
Nigam went on to highlight that despite Rahman’s lack of classical training as a vocalist, his musical instincts ensure that he is always in “sur” (melody). “The main thing is to be in sur. What is the point of a good voice texture if one is not in sur? His voice might not be great, but he is always in sur because he is AR Rahman.”
While the statement has been perceived as blunt, Nigam also praised Rahman for his musical brilliance and his willingness to experiment. He recalled how Rahman gave him creative freedom during the recording of Inn Lamhon Ke Daaman Mein from Jodhaa Akbar. “He allowed me to compose a small part of the song,” Nigam shared with pride, adding that Rahman instantly liked the addition and retained it in the final track.
This isn’t the first time Sonu Nigam has spoken candidly about Rahman. In a previous interview, he referred to the maestro’s personality as “introverted” and criticized the music of Yuvvraaj, the Salman Khan and Katrina Kaif starrer, as “bekaar” (not good). Despite this, Nigam and Rahman have collaborated on numerous musical masterpieces, including Satrangi Re (Dil Se) and Aayo Re Sakhi (Water), forming a working relationship that has spanned three decades.
The statement has divided music lovers. While some fans agree with Nigam’s assessment, others believe Rahman’s emotive voice has created magic in songs like Maahi Ve (Highway), Khwaja Mere Khwaja (Jodhaa Akbar), and Dil Se Re (Dil Se).
Music industry insiders suggest that Nigam’s comments reflect his deep understanding of music rather than an attempt to undermine Rahman’s contributions. However, with Rahman yet to respond, the debate over his singing prowess continues to rage on social media.
For now, Sonu Nigam’s candid take has once again proven that in Bollywood’s music industry, honest opinions can hit just as hard as high notes.
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