1. For those who don't know who you are, give us a little info about yourself?
Born and bred in India, came to the UK in mid 90’s and have always been attached to my roots in India. I currently live in Leicester. I have been inspired and influenced by great Panjabi talents such as Sardool Sikander and Durga Rangila. Always had a passion of music and singing since an early age. I am classically trained vocalist and always put the practice every day to train my vocals.
2. How did you get into singing, where did it all begin?
Begun at young age, got inspired by listening to Durga Rangila and Sardool Sikander. As I said singing is a real desire for me and it is something I enjoy.
3. 'VEKHO VEKHO' Debut Album was done by AMAN HAYER. That time it was released with Delays and very Low Promotions?
Yes, I was really badly advised and told many lies. The album was not marketed in a manor I thought it would. Eventually the album did get released in November 2008. But I never gave up and thank God I met the right people in Inda Bains and Twilight Promotions Records now and only look to the future and have spent the last 10 months in preparation for my new album.
4. Your brand new album "KHABARDAR" coming out soon! Tell us about it & what we can expect from it?
The album features 9 tracks consisting of a mixture of sounds and influences, including Folk and Hip Hop. No rappers or Mc’s. I have put alot of effort into my vocals for each track and Inda Bains has produced the album which I am confident he has done a great job on. The album has been 10 months in production so we have spent time and effort into bringing you a Bhangra album which the public will enjoy.
5. What tunes should we watch out for?
The album has many songs to look out for, from Aashiqui to Nishani to the ballad Vairne to the desi track Yaari. The album has 9 super songs that will appeal to all audiences.
6. What about Videos this time ?
There will be 2 high budget videos which have been shot in India for the tracks ‘Nishani’ and ‘Yaari’. Nishani will be aired first on the TV Channels and Internet sites aswell as the radio stations across the UK in June.
7. Who would you say has had the most influence on your singing career?
Durga Rangila, I have been listening to his music from young age and is an inspiration to me
8. Which Rapper are you rating at the moment?
Apache Indian, all time great and great respect for the man.
9. INDA BAINS or AMAN HAYER?
They are both good musicians in their own right, being able to play numerous instruments. Aman has been around for a number of years and is an established name where as Inda is someone who has been learning his trade for a number of years now and is establishing himself as a music director. However their style of working is totally different. Aman doesn’t have much input in lyrics and compositions and prefers the singer to do this where as Inda starts everything from scratch. He selects lyrics and makes compositions to suit my style of singing and vocal range. Inda really worked me hard in my vocals to get the correct vocal for each track he wanted to do, which I am pleased he did as it shows he didn’t just want my recordings at a first go. And I was happy that Inda made me sing verses and the chorus’s over and over until he was satisfied with the outcome. Overall I preferred working with Inda as he offered me better guidance however I do respect Aman Hayer and his way of work and wish him well always.
10. Album coming on which records Comp. ?
It’s under the new label of Twilight Promotions Records. They released their debut release in December 2008 titled Bukan Jatt Da Rite Tyme and did very well. I have alot of confidence they will market my new album in a grand manor. They have the musical knowledge and experience and are always happy to listen and offer guidance.
11. If there was one artist from the past or present that you would collaborate with, who would it be?
Durga Rangila, the reason behind me becoming a singer, and a great inspiration.
12. There are not many big vocalists in the UK in the Bhangra industry. What do you think is halting the success of local vocalists getting into the limelight?
There are alot of singers in the UK however many producers just use vocalists from India or abroad. But there are many UK talents for sure.
Illegal downloads which make it even harder for newcomer and for Record labels to invest in talents and spend on marketing. Plus I feel alot of advertising companies are charging too much for marketing which I feel is wrong as the Bhangra market is small and therefore hard to invest in.
Another aspect is people don’t give chances to newcomers. They don’t give them a chance and just judge them on first appearance which again I feel is wrong and damaging.
13. Which vocalist from the UK do you rate the most? Can you name any upcoming vocalists who we should watch out for in the future?
Like I said earlier, the UK does have alot of great talents. It will be hard to name any individual as I have alot of respect for everyone.
As for a vocalist to watch out for I would say myself!!
14. Is there anything else we should look out from you in the near future?
More videos for this upcoming album, TV and Radio interviews during the coming months aswell as performing at Mela’s, Shows and Gigs.
15. With the album coming now, you must hope fans go out and support the album; do you have a message for the people who have decided to download your album for free rather than purchase it legally?
The message is clear please go and buy the album if you’re a true fan and you want to continue to listen to music from myself and others in the future. Aswell as supporting and keeping the Bhangra music alive and releasing future quality albums.
16. Finally, do you have a message for all the readers of www.kdsdj.Com?
Please go and buy the album and you will not be disappointed. It is an album full of pure Punjabi vocals. Please keep on supporting us so that we can keep on delivering the music that you like.
Message me on facebook, shami official, and please let me know what your opinions of the album. For bookings and further info contact AS Dhami on +44 (0)7773 858330
Thanks to all and to KDSDJ.com!
