I am in a position to make a difference and create impact, says AR Rahman

As A.R. Rahman’s KM Conservatory turned eight recently, the maestro talks about his future visions, music, academy, being a filmmaker, need for clean lyrics and more

As we walked into A.R. Rahman’s Panchathan Record Inn, his in-house studio attached to the backyard of his home in Kodambakkam in Chennai, there was a slight sense of trepidation. We were at one of the continent’s most technologically-advanced studios, filled with musical equipments and instruments. He’s spotted quite rarely these days, courtesy his manic schedule, but he was there recently because his baby turned eight recently. No, not one of his three kids but his other kid — KM Conservatory that was established in 2008 — and has since grown into one of the most famed music institutions in the country. Housing a multicultural student and staff base, the select college keeps churning out playback singers, independent artistes, performers and researchers, every year.

He sits us down next to a magnificent Windsor piano in a private room where the genius reveals that he gets by quite easily by being ‘normal’.

Has KM come full circle yet We’ve come a long way in eight years but the challenge now is to establish a full-fledged orchestra next. I’ll admit it; there were a lot of questions when I set it up — why in Chennai But it’s turned out to be a blessing in disguise! Not only has it contributed to changing the musical landscape and perception of the city, but students here don’t have too many distractions. I do feel responsible for shaping their paths, and for them to carry on the legacy. Our other ambitious project is the musical 99 Songs, of course. I want to make many more musicals themed on similar subjects. But no, they won’t be usual stories about rockstars or depressed geniuses who eventually get drunk and die! (laughs) Audiences today are incredibly knowledgeable and I won’t insult them.

On becoming a filmmaker It all happened after the Oscars. I’d always wanted an Indian technician or filmmaker to win, but never imagined it’d be me. After the win, it was such a confusing period. Should I be a pop artist now Or turn Hollywood composer Or come back to India and continue my work Every door possible was open. That’s when the learning process began — about everything from CGI to screenwriting to cinematography, and more. My Infinite Love music video project taught me a lot and fuelled my desire to make a film even more.

A ‘strange’ time for music Indeed with context to lyrics. I even had a conversation with Michael Jackson about this, a few years ago. For me, words are prayers. When Spike Lee wanted to use Chaiyya Chaiyya for Inside Man — my condition was that there should not be obscene lyrics or voiceovers! Same with Million Dollar Arm; I was working with rappers known for their explicit content — but we managed to keep it clean. I still remember Nicki Minaj rapping at the Time 100 Gala and feeling thoroughly astonished how people can sing such things! Even back home, this Beep Song was a bad idea I will always remain a strong advocate of clean lyrics in music.

Who brings out the best in you People I have a great trust and comfort level with. Directors like Mani Ratnam and Shankar with whom there’s no ego, drama just incredible mutual respect and admiration. For instance, during OK Kanmani, I’d composed a song which they finished shooting too — after which I told them to drop it! Everyone was upset. But Mani Ratnam understood and Ey Sinamika happened after that. That’s how much he trusts me. Can a debutant director work with me See, here’s the issue. I don’t mind at all but then the film is judged because of my music and that’s unfair. People expect Oscar-quality music for a small romcom. I wish they could compartmentalise their expectations better.

Heirs to the throne Oh, I take inspiration from them all the time! All my three children learn music But it’s my son, Ameen, who seems most inclined. He listens to Skrillex et al, and was thrilled when the artist mentioned me sometime back! (laughs) He often gives me feedback and I appreciate it. Ameen will finish his basic music education but after that, I’m honestly cool with whoever he wants to be. It’s important to be normal, you know. I, too, spend hours browsing music online, reading comments, talk and listen to people around me, just like anyone else. There’s no point in sitting atop a skyscraper and composing all by yourself, is there

Looking ahead I’ve been working for over 30 years now (Phew!) Sometimes, I just want to sit back and give way to other young composers and stop blocking them. Over the last few years, a fantastic new breed of musicians have come to forefront. Exciting times are ahead in the industry. For me, the future plan is to definitely make more films with my own production house. Even though I know nothing about sports, currently, I’m really excited about both the upcoming Sachin and Pele biopics,

Is there a price to this fame No. I’ve never felt that way, even when I’ve been embroiled in the most unnecessary of controversies. The fatwa against Majid Majidi and me, for instance I really wanted to deal with it properly and set an example. I’m in a position to make a difference or create impact, and I feel lucky to be doing just that. I never complain about the life that I have. But in a world that’s filled with so much spite and violence, if I can do anything to spread some love, then I’m happy to.