For Reuben De Melo, the champion of The Voice Australia 2024, his recent performance in Chennai was far more than a routine tour date. It became a profound, personal milestone where he felt the vibrant city metaphorically turn its chair for him, much like the iconic chairs on the show that launched his career.
A Warm and Energetic Chennai Welcome
Making his debut performance in the city, De Melo was genuinely moved by the audience's response. He admitted to not knowing what to expect, but the crowd's immense warmth and infectious energy completely blew him away. He described a palpable sense of openness among the listeners, who were fully prepared to engage, feel every note, and connect on a deeper level. This unique atmosphere transformed the entire evening into something exceptionally special for the artist.
Honouring Local Culture with Tamil Musical Tributes
The connection between the performer and the audience deepened significantly when De Melo surprised everyone by incorporating beloved local songs into his setlist. He explained that his intention was to genuinely honour Chennai and its rich culture, rather than simply arriving and playing his own material. He chose to perform "Powerhouse" from the film Coolie and "Wasted" from Vikram, noting their deep emotion and musicality. These selections felt like a natural fit for his voice and served as his heartfelt way of acknowledging the local audience and their musical heritage.
To ensure authenticity and respect for the original compositions, De Melo collaborated closely with local musicians during rehearsals. This process was crucial to getting the phrasing and overall feel of the songs perfectly right. He fondly referred to this collaborative effort as a creative push in the best possible way, which enriched his own artistic perspective.
A Collaborative Highlight with Gopi Krishna
However, the most unforgettable moment of the night for De Melo occurred during a powerful collaboration. He performed his song "I Believe In You" alongside talented Tamil artiste Gopi Krishna. Recalling the experience, De Melo said hearing Gopi Krishna weave traditional alaaps (melodic improvisations) over a song he himself wrote was an unreal and magical experience. That fusion felt like a exciting glimpse into the future potential and direction of his own music.
Chennai's Lasting Impression on the Artist
Beyond the stage, the city of Chennai itself left a strong and lasting impression on Reuben De Melo. He spoke vividly about the intense yet wonderful energy, the vibrant colours, and the incredible food. He contrasted this with the calmer pace of life in his home of Western Australia. Yet, he found a familiar comfort, noting that the fundamental warmth of the people in Chennai strongly reminded him of home, creating a beautiful sense of belonging even far away.
