With SPB in my family, I had a natural liking for music. Right from the age of seven, I wanted to become a music composer,” explains SP Abhishek, who has now completed ten years in the music industry. Learning Hindustani from Kuldeep Sagar and Carnatic from Binny Krishna Kumar, Abhishek is said to have begun composing his own music at high school, after which he forayed into the industry by composing for a few short films and jingles for Suriyan FM. His life took a turn when his father passed away. “My life changed overnight. It was a do or die scenario that moulded me into a multi-tasker,” he remembers.
On being asked about his debut music composition for the movie Meiazhagi, he recounts, “I never thought I was ready for it. My uncle (SPB) was surprised to hear a melodious composition from me in my debut film.”
Explaining that dubbing for the middle-aged hero in Slumdog Millionaire and for Kamal’s son in Uttama Villain (Telugu) was a great learning experience, he says, “Dubbing is just a hobby for me.”
Talking about the SPB 50 World Tour, he beams, “Touring around fourteen places in the world to celebrate SPB’s contribution to music was memorable.” Despite being in close quarters with the SPB himself, “I don’t believe the singer in me,” he quips.
Out of excessive adulation for ARR, he explains, “I worship Rahman — I grew up listening to his music which has healing powers.” And the young musician is dreaming to work with his idol one day.
“For me, all work is important as I learn something new from it,” he says, adding, “My mother has never stopped me from taking my career decisions. It’s her constant support that keeps me going.”
