Vivek Kar: During pandemic, independent music staged a big comeback

Youngster Vivek Kar, music composer for films like Meeruthiya Gangster, Direct Ishq and Shaadi Mein Zaroor Aana, feels blessed that his debut film composition was sung by none other than legendary composer Bappi Laheri. He is now all set to bring out a number sung by Laheri that they had recorded years ago.

“It’s my privilege that my first film song, title track of Zindagi 50:50, was sung by Bappi Da and since then he had been guiding me till he was around. We have recorded a peppy dance number written by Kumaar for which Da lent his magical voice. Now, I have completed the song and directed it as well. We will bring it out on Holi for music lovers as a tribute to the legend,” says the 30-year-old composer who hails from Assam.

More than films, Kar is now focusing on composing singles.

“Years back independent music was a real big space but it faded during pandemic it actually got to bounce back with a bang. And today, singles are doing really well and also were a good stress-buster in these tough times. I myself have composed 20 songs which have been sung by leading singers and featured some popular celebrities,” Kar says and adds that his song Tu Bhi Royega sung by Jyotica Tangri got over 100 million views.

Kar feels promotion of songs is equally important. “We are in a phase where anything can become a hit. But songs need backing of a good record label because several numbers are released everyday so you need to release and promote them well so it reaches to maximum listeners, but organically!”

Telling us about his journey he says, “I come from a place (Sivasagar) where composing music is not considered a profession which I dreamt of taking up since I was a kid. So, I came to Mumbai and did my education in mass communication and worked in media houses. Things were in place and I started doing music. Also, I tried my hand in independent music as well.”

Kar is now focusing on directing videos and films too. “I composed and directed Hauli Hauli that features Prince Narula and Zareen Khan which got over five million hits. After that, I also directed some 10 videos that have my music and feature Adaa Khan, Sonarika Bhadouria, Aashi Singh and many more big names. A fortnight back I came up with Tu Baith Mere Samne and last one is Mujko Ki Barbaad — both sung by Raj Barman.”

The young musician has also composed for a Bollywood film along with a South project but is not interested in taking up singing or going in front of the camera ever. “That’s a conscious decision and I feel it’s absolutely alright to have certain limitations. I know in showbiz it’s important to be seen but I am happy if my music does the talking and my work gets recognition. Besides, I will be producing two projects — one for an OTT platform and other is a feature film,” he shares.