Music is My Happy Place, Says Melody Queen K.S. Chithra

Reflecting on how the playback singing industry has evolved, the Melody Queen of Indian Cinema notes the marked shift in the way music is now created. “Like every other industry, there is a big change in the music industry too,” she begins thoughtfully. “Initially, where all the musicians and the singers would sit together and practice before recording the songs. But now, we are mixing the tracks, so we only just record our portions.”

When asked whether she preferred the older way of working, she responded with clarity: “Definitely, because we used to get feedback from senior musicians, who were part of the crew and they would offer suggestions and advice from time to time. It was like a family—everybody would be there for the rehearsal. That bonding is missing now. Everybody is on their own, recording in their own studios, and we don’t get to see the musicians.”

But some changes are for good like female voices finding space in today’s music world. When asked about the creative freedom a singer gets, the Nightingale of South India says “We always want to improvise. But only select music directors allow that. Some music directors will say, ‘This is the outline, you can develop.’ While some others might say, ‘Just sing what I want.’”

On the topic of independent music rising alongside film-based songs, she welcomes the change. “It is good for new singers who have the talent to compose. They can create their own music and release singles. That way everybody gets to showcase their talent.”

Talking about how she adapts her voice for different genres and actors, she says, “Usually, I ask about the scenario—how they are going to picturize the song. We may have to do some extra gimmicks for certain sequences. When you read the lyrics, you know if it is a romantic song or a sad song or a heroine introduction song. So, you just imagine and sing.”

Quoting the late legendary singer, SP Balasubrahmanyam, she adds: “SPB sir always used to say all the singers are actors—only then they can sing. Because you are not acting on the screen, but you have to emote that behind the mic. You can’t smile and sing a sad song. So, your face also becomes sad when you sing such lines. When you want to weep in between the song, your face reflects those emotions.”

Chithra also addresses the challenges aspiring singers face today, particularly those coming from reality shows. “Reality shows have ensured there is no dearth of talent. I am not sure if everybody will get the opportunity to sing and establish themselves in films because just one song is not enough. They have to get a lot of songs in different genres. It’s not easy to dominate the industry in the future. Also, singers must get a fair remuneration because it is a job they are doing.”

Chithra is set to perform in Hyderabad and she’s already flooded with requests from fans, which she intends to add to her setlist. “There are a few songs I always sing in my concerts. I am getting a lot of requests from fans. I am also learning and practicing popular Telugu songs,” says Chithra. Talking about her concert staples, she says: “One is definitely ‘Abbani teeyani debba’ then there are ‘Mounamgane Yedagamani’ and ‘Venuvai Vachanu’.”

As someone who values wellness, Chithra shared her approach to maintaining her health. “I enjoy being around positive energy and listening to young talent. It’s a happy place for me,” she says. She also emphasised the importance of formal training for singers, especially when it comes to taking high pitches or singing complex songs.

With her humility and wealth of experience, it’s easy to see why KS Chithra remains one of the most loved and respected voices in Indian music. Whether speaking about her peers, the next generation, or her own craft, her words echo her art—soulful, sincere, and timeless.