‘ I HAVE DEVELOPED A GOOD EAR FOR MUSIC’
Akshay Kumar, who debuts as a playback singer in Toilet: Ek Prem Katha, says it was an “exciting experience” and “not scary at all”
In 1991, he made his debut with Saugandh, and ever since, Akshay Kumar has acted in a variety of films and also dabbled into production. But 26 years after his Bollywood debut, Akshay is now set to make a debut of a new kind — a stint with playback singing. For the first time in his career, he has crooned a song, ‘Toilet ka jugaad’ for his next film, Toilet: Ek Prem Katha. We catch up with Akshay for a quick chat about his love for music and more.
What was it like going behind the mic for the first time? Was it scary?
Like all new things, it was an exciting experience, but not scary at all. I fell in love with the lyrics [of the song] the moment I heard them because they were so bang on. I was more than geared up to sing ‘Toilet ka jugaad’.
How would you rate yourself as a singer?
I think it would be unfair for me to rate myself. I shall wait for the audience to hear the song and rate my singing (laughs). I can’t judge myself.
Would you call yourself a ‘musical’ person?
I’m not sure about being a ‘musical’ person but I do enjoy music and I believe I have developed a good ear for it over the years to know and understand what works and what doesn’t — and it happens most of the times.
Talking of the song, the lyrics are relevant and hard-hitting...
Absolutely, and full marks to the writers [of the film], Siddharth-Garima who are also the lyricists of this song. Maybe that’s why (since they are film’s writers as well as lyricists) they have managed to capture the essence of the film so effectively in this one song.
What do you feel about the song’s relevance, in today’s times?
The song is extremely relevant and hard-hitting as it talks about the current scheme of things in our country. It doesn’t shy away in any manner and talks about the situation as it is. I feel that’s what makes the song work and makes it relatable.