Akbar Sami is currently making headlines for the song, Senorita

What prompted you to come out with Senorita?

I wanted to come out with a solo number for quite some time. Four years back I sung a cover version of Kabhi Kabhi Mere Dil Mein which was released with a video. Senorita came late because of the Covid. I am happy that the song has got good feedback.

Music videos are getting great response from the audience. What’s your take?

Unfortunately, music has now become all about views which the particular song is getting. Our respect for melody is lost and we should all work collectively to get that back. People have moved over to Punjabi music and South Indian films for a reason.

How will you sum up your journey till now?

I started as a dancer and then became a choreographer and then a DJ. The journey has been fantastic. I have been receiving love and appreciation from across the globe. I just wish we could preserve Indian film music’s melody in a graceful way.

Will your kids take forward the legacy which you have created?

I have two beautiful daughters; 11 and 12 years old. Till now they have not showed any interest in being a DJ. They have some other plans and I am okay with that.

Who all has been your inspiration in life?

Work wise I have always admired composer A R Rahman’s work. Personally, it is my father M S Choudhury, who used to be a filmmaker. I have got the sense of music from him. His advice which I have always followed is work from heart, and give hundred per cent to what you do.

What is on your wish list?

I want to revive the melody of Hindi music. If you go abroad, you will only hear good classic Hindi film songs. It’s high time people of India understood this.

Any plan to come up with your own DJ training institute?

Yes, this is indeed a nice idea. I just want to tell people that playing a 35 Hindi film songs playlist doesn’t make anyone a good DJ. I have self-taught this art and later on done a crash course on DJ.

What about acting?

I have acted in films like Rampur Ka Laxman and Naukri. I have worked with geniuses like Raj Kapoor and Kamal Amrohi in my career. Acting is also dear to me.

You have been offered Bigg Boss but you said no. Why?

Yes, I have been offered the show a number of times. I am old school and a family man; I don’t want to be a part of such a loud show.

What is your forthcoming project?

I am working on two songs, one is qawwali and the second one is Bollywood pop.