Bollywood legends honoured
Fri, December 14 2007
|
A tribute to Rafi, Mukesh
and Kishore Kumar |
The three, Mohammad Rafi, Mukesh, and Kishore Kumar, were leading Bollywood “playback” singers in the 1950s to 1970s.
Bollywood “playback” refers to singers who record songs on movie soundtracks which are then lip-synced by the films’ actors. Perhaps one of the best-known “playback” singers known to Western audiences would be Marni Nixon, who provided the singing chops for stars like Marilyn Monroe, Natalie Wood and Audrey Hepburn. Nowhere else, however, has “playback” been a springboard to success like it has been in India.
Rafi, who some say is one of India’s most prolific performers, made it into the big times singing filmi songs from the movie Baiju Bawra. A favourite with composers, the singer quickly went on to win numerous awards, and sang himself into the hearts of his countrymen.
Towards the latter part of his career, Kishore Kumar overtook Rafi as “playback” singer in demand.
Kumar would go on to hold the record for most number of Filmfare Awards for Best Male Playback Singer.
Along with these two singers, Mukesh also made a huge name for himself singing filmi songs.
All three men died in the late 70s and early 80s.
In Vancouver a number of singers including Bankin Pathak and Kamlesh Awasthi will pay tribute to the three legends as part of Kal Ki Yaadein: a Tribute to Legends.
The will be joined by other singers and a full orchestra. Sun Dec 23, 7pm.
Tix $45-$15. Massey Theatre (735 8th Ave, New West).
Info & tix: Kamal’s Video at 604-592-9777.
Your reactions
