'Music is the only thing I know'

Kanjeevaram sari. Big bindi. Mallipoo. Glass bangles. Broad smile. The unique voice. Unstoppable energy. That’s Usha Uthup for you! Her unconventional image is something that strikes everybody when she performs on stage. “But that wasn’t something I did consciously. I was born and brought up in a middle class Tambrahm family. Those days, the only option I had was to drape saris. I never knew that would become style statement eventually,” she smiles. 

Having started off her career as a singer in nightclubs, she has indeed come a long way — crooning in more than 10 Indian and eight foreign languages. After all, who can forget those foot tapping numbers like Doston Se Pyar Kiya, Dum Maro Dum, and Hari Om Hari? “Whatever I am today is because of the love that people have for me. I believe in music and of course, in myself. Thanks are due to fellow musicians and music enthusiasts who accept me the way I am!"

More than a playback singer, the vocalist has been a live artiste at heart. Usha says her focus has been engaging the audience during stage shows. “First of all, I need to enjoy when I sing. Then, obviously, the energy would pass on to the audience. It’s all about how I communicate and the ability to understand and be understood. More than the language, to me it’s the emotions that matter. I think only the audience has changed today, but their love and affection is the same,” she tells us. 

Despite the cut-throat competition, Usha has managed to be in this industry for 45 long years. She insists on being honest in her approach towards singing, and needless to say — that’s the secret of her success. “I share a good rapport with everyone I choose to work with and that reflects in my work. It is about how original you are!"

How does she juggle reality show shoots, song recordings, and stage performances? "I have learned to prioritise and that truly works for me. I don't want to retire from music. That is the only thing I know. There are many promising singers out there. I love them all — from Shreya Ghoshal, Sunidhi Chauhan to Arijit Singh," she concludes.

Quick five 

What's your idea of happiness?

Listening to my grandchildren’s voice on the telephone.

The trait you dislike in others.

Dishonesty and double standards.

Greatest extravagance? 

Buying things for my family, maybe?

Biggest regret? 

I’m quite an emotional person. But I’ve not regretted it.

The best thing about Chennai.

I love filter kaapi. Also whenever I am here, I make it a point to visit the Marina beach. There have been days where Kamal (Haasan) and I used to eat sundal on the beach. (laughs). We were good friends. Oh, no... We still are! (smiles).

(The piece was originally written for Deccan Chronicle)