Her unique voice captured the attention of the entire country, with songs like Jiya Re and Neeyum Naanum. Her power packed, melodious performances during her tours with music maestro, AR Rahman, have been crowd pullers. Neeti Mohan, who was in town recently, talks about the musical genius of the Mozart of Madras, working in the south and more.
“I have been touring with Rahman sir for over seven years now,” she says. “I have learnt a lot from him,” asserts Neeti. Gushing about performing with the maestro, she admits, “It is an absolute honour. I admire him as a musician and a mentor. He always plans for a perfect concert. We work with a different song or new versions each time — that helps us connect with all kinds of audiences. His versatility and experimentation make him extremely inspiring. He’s changed the way I think and how I am as a person.”
Talking about a likely collaboration with a special set of British musicians, Neeti elaborates, “I’m in touch with musicians Jake Morley, Lewis Watson and Olivia Broadfield, who are extremely talented. So far, I have had the pleasure of jamming with them via Skype. I hope to maybe even collaborate with them on a song or two!”
Neeti will soon debut on the sets of The Voice Kids in India as a judge. “This is my first time as a mentor and coach on The Voice Kids. Here, singing and quality of the voice are given weightage. Understanding them and their voices and training them has been a fulfilling experience. I want to pass on all the lessons I have learnt during my recordings or on-stage, and see them shine and feel like a proud mother!” smiles Neeti.
“I have sung many songs in Tamil and have been nominated for Filmfare Tamil this year for Neeyum Naanum for Naanum Rowdy Dhaan. Apart from Rahman sir, I’ve worked with D Imman, GV Prakash, Noel, Leon James and many amazing music directors. It’s very inspiring to work in the south and the music here is very melodious,” she confesses.
Talking about Chennai and its audience, she says, “I’m sure that in my last birth, I lived in Chennai because I feel a strong connection with the place and people — because of the music and love I receive here. The audience is great and expectations so high that it makes you a better singer. Their sense of music is so rich. I also love the food — Chettinad chicken is one of my favourites. Given a choice, I’d love to shift to Chennai!”
