Shaan, a prominent figure in the Indian music scene for over two decades, has recently voiced his perspective on being consistently labeled as a '90s singer. In a recent discussion, the singer addressed the topic, drawing a parallel to Shah Rukh Khan's career choices to illustrate his point.
Shaan questioned why actors aren't similarly pigeonholed based on their past roles. Using Shah Rukh Khan as an example, Shaan remarked, "When SRK did Pathaan, no one said it looked like Baazigar". He implied that while actors are allowed to evolve and experiment with different roles without being strictly confined to their earlier image, singers from the 90s are often boxed into that era, hindering their present-day work from being viewed with a fresh perspective.
Shaan's comment highlights a common sentiment among artists who rose to fame in a particular period. While recognition for past work is appreciated, it can be frustrating when it overshadows their current endeavors. He suggests that audiences should be more open to seeing artists, including singers, as dynamic individuals capable of reinventing themselves and exploring new creative avenues.
The singer's career itself is a testament to his versatility. Emerging as a significant voice in the 90s, Shaan has showcased his talent as a singer, writer, and composer. His initial success included pop hits like "Tanha Dil Tanha Safar" and "Musu Musu Hasi". In the early 2000s, he became a symbol of a new wave in Hindi music, achieving success as a solo pop artist and playback singer in Bollywood, with songs in Telugu, Tamil, and Kannada movies. Memorable tracks such as "It's The Time To Disco" from Kal Ho Naa Ho, romantic melodies like "Jab Se Tere Naina" from Saawariya, and "Chand Sifarish" from Fanaa cemented his place in the industry.
In recent years, Shaan has focused on creating singles for his own music label, Shaan Music. His song, "Majboor Ho Gaye," released a few years ago, showcased his acting skills in a story about a couple's emotional separation. This single reflects his desire to connect with a broad audience through relatable themes and a classic song structure.
Shaan has witnessed significant changes in the music industry, particularly the rise of digital platforms. He notes that the digitisation of music has empowered new-age musicians, allowing them to bypass traditional recording companies and release their music independently on platforms like YouTube and streaming services. This shift has enabled many young musicians to gain popularity without relying on film projects or established labels.
Shaan's perspective on the '90s singer tag is a call for the industry and listeners to acknowledge the growth and potential of artists beyond their initial fame. By drawing a comparison to SRK, he cleverly underscores the need for a more open-minded approach to artists' evolution. He emphasizes that artists should not be limited by past achievements but celebrated for their continuing journey and diverse contributions to the world of music.