Talent comes first: Harshdeep Kaur on nepotism

In an exclusive interview for Millennium post, she talks about her inspirations, goals and feelings on having reached this high in her career.

What do you when you are not working?

Well, I'm always busy making music and trying to compose some new songs and if I'm not travelling, I like staying at home or going out with my friends. I love watching movies, so that's the time I catch up on them.

You've learnt both Indian and western classical music, which one do you personally prefer?

I think both are really important and have taught me different things, for example, western classical has helped me sing in different genres of music and in shaping my voice to suit a particular song. But nevertheless, I started with Indian classical music, so it'll always be my first love.

Which fellow singer or music composer do you enjoy working with the most?

Well, it's difficult to take one name as it's always a new experience working with all different music directors, but yes, I really enjoy working with Pritam da, Amit Trivedi, Vishal-Shekhar and Rehman sir. It's always a joy working with them, also Salim-Suleiman, Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy as they are all very like-minded people who give full freedom to an artist.

Since you made on your own in the industry, what are your views on nepotism?

I think when you have a relative or a contact in the industry, it's an easy access but you can't retain that position without any talent. Talent always comes first, and then comes relations.

What are your thoughts on reality shows? Do you give them credit for your success?

I was already singing for films before I won 'junoon' (reality show). But yes, I have gained a lot of experience and confidence from these shows. These shows give singers another kind of fame; people start listening to you and gradually, relate themselves to you.

Any upcoming projects..?

Yes, I have sung a very different song for the film 'Bareilyki Barfi' called 'Twist Kamariya'. It is my first song with Tanishq Bagchi. It has a very catchy tune which is not similar to any of my older songs.