Meet the Showkalis'!

In a state of being still hung over from ‘Thalli Pogadhey’, here comes the teaser of song ‘Showkali’ from Accham Yenbadhu Madamaiyada, giving us sleepless nights. And from what we’ve heard of this 40-second ‘rapsmash’ which was released two weeks back, it’s safe to say that this is a first-of-its kind in Tamil rap.

Aaryan Dinesh Kangaratnam aka ADK from Singapore and Sri Rascol from Malaysia, who penned the lyrics for the rap portion and crooned it, are on cloud nine with the initial response.

In a chat with DC, these talented youngsters speak about their experience of working with AR Rahman, their desire to redefine rap in K’town, and their aspirations.

“I started rapping in 2007 after getting inspired by Yogi B and Natchatra. Though I had sung several songs in earlier films, ‘Showkali’ is definitely a dream come true as we’ve not heard a solid rap song in Tamil cinema yet,” starts ADK, who has sung hit songs like ‘Magudi Magudi’ (Kadal), ‘Kaara Attakkaaraa’ (OK Kanmani) and ‘Aathichudi’ (TN-07 AL 4777). Speaking about how he teamed up with Sri Rascol, he says, “I have known him for four years and I was always sure that this man is extremely talented. I’m happy that he has got a huge break through this song.”

Sri, likewise, heaps praise on ADK and thanks him for helping him realise a dream. “The best part about our association is that we’ve an excellent chemistry. As we know how each other works, the output is generally excellent. And, it’s only because of my brother (ADK) that I got an opportunity to sing for the living legend A R Rahman sir,” he exclaims. The Malaysia-based rapper gets instantly excited when we ask about his first interaction with ARR — “ADK, having worked with Rahman sir previously, showed my demos to him. Impressed by them, he had a Skype chat with me and told me that I’d be a part of ‘Showkali’. It still feels surreal!”

Sri is touted to be the fastest rapper in Tamil and when we query him about this, he modestly replies, “It takes a lot of hard work. The fact that I can’t read and write the language (Tamil) makes it a bigger challenge. Repeated practice has helped me sing at this breakneck speed.”

With the teaser providing them a perfect platform, the rappers hope that their association continues for a long time. “We are currently working on a promotional track for the same film as our side of support. The song is also named ‘AYM’ and both Gautham sir and Rahman sir really liked the output. Apart from this, Sri and I are coming up with an album named ‘Rapacharam’ through which we’re going to spread our culture through rap,” says ADK as both bid their adieus.