Once upon a time, actors would sing for their own films before the trend of playback singers took over completely. In India, more and more actors have started singing for their films in contemporary times. But, in many cases, it is nothing more than mere stunts that only appeal to strong fans. Salman has done it at least twice. Aamir Khan sang for Ghulam.
Once upon a time, actors would sing for their own films before the trend of playback singers took over completely. In India, more and more actors have started singing for their films in contemporary times. But, in many cases, it is nothing more than mere stunts that only appeal to strong fans. Salman has done it at least twice. Aamir Khan sang for Ghulam. Priyanka Chopra sang beautifully for Karam, an Indian film starring John Abraham and Priyanka before she flew away to Hollywood as a bonafide star.
However, it is Ranveer Singh’s track, ‘Apna Time Aayega’ from Gully Boy that has beaten recent efforts from actors and therefore must be discussed and appreciated. Though the track has a long list of contributors, the ones who deserve the most credit include lyricist Ankur Tewari and Divine, as well as director Zoya Akhtar for actually letting a dubstep track into a mainstream film without adding a dozen irritating elements.
‘Apna Time Aayega’ is therefore sharp, full of sick beats and hits you hard, like a good rap song can. This is a step up for Ranveer Singh who is shown rapping in the streets of Mumbai and on stage. More than that it is proof that he can do well, even without a Sanjay Leela Bhansali guiding him.
As for Gully Boy, it looks like one of the better Bollywood films to release this year and is said to be based on underground rappers/composers. It is said to be about the struggle of rising from the streets and the question of privilege. It also stars the prodigal Alia Bhatt.
Do we have another 8 Mile on our hands or something original, time will tell. For now, however, check out the song, ‘Apna Time Aayega’. It’s nothing short of an anthemic rap number, full of rage, hope, fear and a nice dose of reality that many will connect to, in Pakistan and beyond.
