Melody matters: Nakash Aziz

Playback singer and composer Nakash Aziz has assisted A.R. Rahman on films like Highway, Raanjhanaa, Rockstar, Delhi 6 and I in Hindi. He’s also the voice of chartbusters like Sari Ke Fall Sa and Gandi Baat from the film R... Rajkumar and Dhating Nach from Phata Poster Nikhla Hero and most recently, the Selfie Le Re track from Bajrangi Bhaijaan. He submits to our quiz on his musical preferences:

The one song on repeat on my iPod these days: An album called Secret Garden and O Kadhal Kanmani by Rahman sir.

If I had to put together a ‘soundtrack’ for my life, the songs on it would be: Chaand Taare Tod Laaun from Yes Boss — it best describes my dreams. Eye of the Tiger from Rocky. Pehla Nasha from Jo Jeeta Wohi Sikandar, for when I was in love. Chale Chalo from Lagaan, because life is a sweet challenge, we just need to keep marching forward. Kal Ho Na Ho’s title track — just enjoy life, kya pata, kal ho na ho?

What I listen to when: I’m happy: Coldplay, Pritam, James Blake, A.R. Rahman, Michael Jackson, will.i.am.
I’m low: Rahman sir’s songs.

Music I loved as a teenager and am now embarrassed by: A song called Beginning by Seal. After many years, I came across the song again and played it to a friend recently and it just didn’t sound as good as it used to.

I’d describe my taste in music as: Very good! [laughs]

My favourite time of the day to listen to music: Is in my car, which has an amazing music system. It really helps me ignore the traffic.

If I could have one band in the world perform a private concert for me, it would have to be: Coldplay!

    — As told to Aarti Bhanushali