Javed Ali does some Rahman nawazi

On the occasion of A.R. Rahman’s birthday today, singer Javed Ali paid tribute to the Mozart of Madras on a radio show that will be aired today. He shared some interesting facts from the making of his song Maula Maula, which was the first time he worked with the living legend.

“My first interaction with Rahman sahab happened in Ranjit Barot’s studio in 2009 when I recorded a song for him. Soon after this, to my surprise Rahman sahab had a sudden thought and said to me, “I want to try one more song with you.”

I was then asked to sing a scratch version of the song Maula Maula. I sang a few lines and was told that I would be informed if I need to record it. After a long gap, much to my happiness, I got a call to record the song; following which after six months I recorded half the song in Mumbai, and the rest of it in Chennai in three parts. It was done over a period of eight months. While recording the last chunk of the song in Chennai, he made me do the recording alone and didn’t show up at the studio. That is the most memorable day for me. I am really grateful to Rahman sahab for trusting me so much and bringing out the best in me.”