Veteran singer Usha Uthup, during a recent visit to Chennai, opened up about her profound and lifelong connection with the city, crediting it for shaping her illustrious career and personal philosophy. In an exclusive conversation, the iconic vocalist reflected on her journey, her enduring love for the Margazhi music season, her unique position in Indian music, and the evolving soundscape driven by social media.
Chennai: The City That Molded a Music Legend
Usha Uthup emphatically stated that Madras, now Chennai, is where her professional journey began. She believes the city fundamentally shaped her music, her discipline, and her overall worldview. Contrary to the perception of Madras being conservative, Uthup revealed that the city welcomed her with open arms, a gesture she holds dear. She expressed deep gratitude for the discerning Chennai audience, whom she described as truly understanding music.
She fondly thanked the city for everything, from the elegant Kanjivaram saree to the fragrant malli poo (jasmine flower). Uthup also praised the unparalleled film music scene in Chennai, highlighting the extraordinary contributions of legends like Ilaiyaraaja and A.R. Rahman, alongside countless talented musicians and singers.
The Magic of Margazhi and a Commitment to Excellence
Uthup hailed the Margazhi music festival as one of the greatest cultural events in the world. She admitted that performing in Chennai always brings a sense of nervousness, but that very feeling pushes her to surpass her previous performances. The singer emphasized her continuous hard work to improve as a musician, driven by the desire to deliver her best for the knowledgeable local audience. Every opportunity to be on stage in Chennai fills her with happiness, she noted.
Breaking Barriers as India's Original Crossover Artist
With a career spanning over five decades, Usha Uthup has traversed genres from pop, jazz, and film music to regional, international, and devotional songs. While hesitant to claim she single-handedly changed how India listens to music, she firmly believes her timing and presence altered many aspects of the industry.
Starting her career in 1969, Uthup broke several barriers and shattered stereotypes. At a time when few women artists presented themselves as she did, she remained undeterred, never conforming to the prevailing race. She realized that what others perceived as her limitations often became her greatest strengths. For Uthup, originality trumps technical perfection, a principle she has lived by, never copying anyone and remaining "100 per cent original" and comfortable in her own skin.
A Natural Journey Without a Blueprint
The singer revealed that her unique path, which seamlessly bridged global music with Indian sensibilities, was entirely unplanned. With no major influences besides the radio and her musically-inclined family, there was no strategy or positioning. She sang purely out of love for the art and a desire to bring joy to people. The cross-cultural and multilingual connection her music fostered was a wonderful, unexpected bonus.
Music as a Lifeline Through Trials
Uthup shared that she never considered abandoning singing or the stage, which she considers her everything. This passion, coupled with unwavering family support, has been her anchor. Even during the most challenging periods of her life, music served as a lifeline, improving her circumstances, keeping her afloat, and propelling her forward. It has brought her numerous accolades and immense personal fulfillment, she concluded.
