The 90s era was pure gold, its songs are still loved, says Kumar Sanu

Popular Bollywood playback singer Kumar Sanu believes there remains a strong appreciation for the voices and songs of his generation. “People still love the songs of our era. The 1990s was a golden period for music,” he said.

Sanu, whose voice defined the musical landscape of the 1990s, shared that he continues to receive immense love for his timeless hits. “My songs have mesmerised listeners for decades. Audiences still cherish my classics like Chura Ke Dil Mera, Do Dil Mil Rahe Hain, and Nazar Ke Samne, among hundreds of others,” he noted.

Recently, nearly three decades after its release, Akshay Kumar and Shilpa Shetty recreated their iconic track Chura Ke Dil Mera at an event, setting the stage ablaze with nostalgia. Responding to the tribute, Sanu said, “These are iconic songs and they will always be listened to and remembered.”

Now 67, Sanu’s last feature film song was Dard Karara in the 2015 release Dum Laga Ke Haisha. His voice was also featured in the recreated version of Aankh Maarey for the 2018 film Simmba.

Reflecting on the evolving music industry, Sanu remarked that while technological advancements have transformed production, the emotional depth of earlier decades is often lacking.

“When I talk about the 90s, I feel that the soul of the music is no longer there,” he said. “So many films back then were musical hits. Today, the focus is more on sound design, while the emotional essence—the soul—is often overlooked. I hope producers prioritise preserving the soul of songs.”

Sanu has lent his voice to blockbuster films including Dil Hai Ke Manta Nahin, Saajan, Phool Aur Kaante, Barsaat, Pardes, and Bewafa, among others.

The Aashiqui singer also commented on reality shows, highlighting their role in discovering new talent. “Programmes like Indian Idol offer an important platform to discover new talent,” he said.

However, he cautioned that it is the responsibility of musicians and industry professionals to support those contestants beyond the show. “Many talented singers are waiting and they just need someone to give them a chance. These shows bring talent into the limelight, and it’s up to the industry to support them.”

Sanu also reflected on changing trends in playback singing. “These days, directors want us to sing in a particular way, whereas earlier, we had the freedom to sing in our own style,” he said.

He expressed concern about the declining respect for singers in the film industry. “I have always been treated with respect, but overall, the standing of singers has diminished. It is not that people treat them badly, but now, the same song is recorded by multiple singers and then one version is selected. That, to me, is disrespectful to the artists,” he said.

“This happens when the music producer or director lacks confidence in their own decisions. Nowadays, no singer can be sure whether their version will be the final one used in the film.”

Recalling a remarkable moment in his career, Sanu shared that in 1993, he recorded 28 songs in a single day. “I was preparing for a 40-day tour in America, and news spread among producers. Suddenly, everyone wanted me to record their songs before I left. So, I decided to spend the entire day at my Juhu Tara studio recording track after track. I had no idea it would become a record-setting session as I just kept recording all day.”

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Recently, Sanu was honoured with two prestigious awards in the UK Parliament. He received recognition from the House of Commons and a Lifetime Achievement Award from the World Book of Records for his outstanding contribution to music.

“It is truly an honour, and I am grateful for these recognitions. Music has been my passion all my life. Being acknowledged internationally, especially by the UK Parliament for the second time is humbling. I dedicate these awards to my fans, who have supported and loved me throughout my journey,” he said.

Speaking about his connection to Delhi, Sanu added, “I visit the city often and have performed there many times.