Melody Matters: Kailash Kher discusses his musical preferences

Pop, rock and folk influences infuse Kailash Kher’s music with its unique quality. In a chat with us, Kailash — who counts Pandit Kumar Gandharva, Pandit Hridaynath Mangeshkar, Pandit Bhimsen Joshi and Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan among his influences — discusses his musical preferences:

The one song I have on repeat on my iPod these days:

Kailasa’s Bheeg Gaya Mera Mann, because of the rains...

If I had to put together a soundtrack for my life, the songs on it would be: Teri Deewani (it’s my first album song which has a lot of sentimental value); Saiyaan; Yeh Jo Des Hai Tera by A.R. Rehman; Dil Ka Bhawar Kare Pukaar by Mohammad Rafi (it teaches you to be positive).

What I listen to when: I’m happy: Chak De Phattey and Dhol Wajda, Thumba Wajda I’m low: Karthik Calling Karthik — Kaisi Hai Yeh Udaasi Chaaiee, Ya Rabba Dede Koi Jaan Hi Aagar.

I’d describe my taste in music as: Being beyond any description. Let love be love — don’t give it a name, just feel it with your soul.

My favourite time/way to listen to music during the day: Mostly when I’m in my car and whenever I’m resting or near my bed, I play music.

If I could have one band in the world/a musician perform a private concert for me, it would be: U2 — they’re so huge and I couldn’t have a bigger dream. I wish to collaboration with Melody Gardot, a beautiful young singer from the US and I would like her to work with Kailasa on some project. If not a private concert, then I’d like to have at least a jamming session with her!

And the one live act I would love to see at least once in my life: Definitely U2!