Bappi Lahiri, one of the most forward-thinking music directors of the Indian film industry to date, has released his much-awaited new album “My Love” – a pioneering fusion that effortlessly combines the best of East and West. Bringing on board the talents of international rapper, Jetta (from 50 Cent), “My Love” comprises eight original tracks, three of which feature the music legend’s own unique interpretation of the R’n’B genre.
Bappi Lahiri was born in Calcutta, West Bengal in 1952 into a family with a rich tradition in classical music. He began his career as a music director at the young age of 19, providing his first Bollywood film score for the film Nanha Shikari in 1973. The film which established him on the map was Tahir Husain’s blockbuster film, Zakhmee (1975), for which he composed music and doubled as a playback singer. This film brought him to the heights of fame and brought forth a new era in the Hindi film industry. Bappi rose from strength to strength and the music for his subsequent films Chalte Chalte and Surakshaa were, and remain, tremendously popular, placing Bappi on the pedestal of stardom and making him the youngest music director of his time to have attained such intense success in such a short duration.
Bappi Lahiri was the pioneer of disco beats in India and his refreshing, vibrant and rhythmic music had the entire nation dancing for decades. Widely known as the “Disco King” of India, even today, Bappi Lahiri was the most popular music director in the 1980s due to his famous compositions for films such as Disco Dancer, which have left a lasting imprint in the minds of all those who heard the music. It is the iconic track from this film – “Jimmy” – has been reworked by musical superstar, M.I.A., to international acclaim.
Bappi Lahiri is famous for his constant desire to reinvent himself and face the challenge to keep up with the rapidly changing preferences of current generations. He is the complete entertainer and superstar with his multiple talents as a singer, music director and percussionist.
Bappi has his own unmatched personal style – the perfect blend of East and West – and his wardrobe ranges from the traditional Indian kurta and sherwani to western sweatshirts and embellished blazers. His signature style includes pieces of jewellery that represent significant symbols in his life and he is famous throughout India for his trademark gold ornaments and sunglasses.
Currently, Bappi Lahiri is transcending the barriers between East and West and is striving to make history once more with his new album, “My Love”. Over the decades and through years of well deserved fame and accolades, he remains the undisputed Disco King of India, and one of the most amiable celebrities in the Hindi film industry today.
Bappi Lahiri’s “My Love” is now available through T-Series.
