R.D. Burman: The Musical Genius of Indian Cinema
Rahul Dev Burman, popularly known as R.D. Burman, was one of the most versatile and influential music composers of Indian cinema. He was born on June 27, 1939, in Kolkata, India, to music composer and singer Sachin Dev Burman and his wife Meera Dev Burman. R.D. Burman’s musical legacy spans over three decades, from the 1960s to the 1990s, and has left an indelible mark on the Indian music industry. In this article, we will take a closer look at the life, career, and legacy of this musical genius.
Early Life and Education
R.D. Burman was born into a musical family, and music was an integral part of his upbringing. He learned music from his father and also studied western classical music under renowned music composer and conductor, Andre Kostelanetz. Burman’s musical influences ranged from classical Indian and Western music to jazz, rock and roll, and Latin American music.
Career Beginnings
Burman started his career as an assistant to his father, Sachin Dev Burman, in the 1950s. He made his debut as a music composer in the film “Chhote Nawab” in 1961. His first major breakthrough came with the film “Teesri Manzil” in 1966, where his music and the film’s success brought him national recognition.
Musical Style and Innovations
R.D. Burman’s music was known for its experimental and innovative nature. He brought in elements of Western music and fused them with Indian classical music to create a unique style. He was known for his use of different instruments, sounds, and rhythms, and his ability to create catchy tunes that would remain etched in people’s minds for years to come.
Some of his iconic songs that are still popular today include “Chura Liya Hai Tumne Jo Dil Ko” from the film “Yaadon Ki Baaraat,” “Dum Maro Dum” from the film “Hare Rama Hare Krishna,” and “Piya Tu Ab To Aaja” from the film “Caravan.” He also composed music for several other hit films, including “Sholay,” “Amar Prem,” and “Kati Patang.”
Collaborations and Partnerships
R.D. Burman had several successful collaborations and partnerships throughout his career. He worked closely with lyricist and poet, Gulzar, and the duo created some of the most memorable songs in Indian cinema. They worked together on films such as “Koshish,” “Kinara,” and “Mausam.”
Burman also worked with singers like Kishore Kumar, Asha Bhosle, Lata Mangeshkar, and Mohammed Rafi, and created some of their most iconic songs. His partnership with Kishore Kumar, in particular, was legendary, and together they produced some of the most popular songs in Indian cinema.
Legacy and Influence
R.D. Burman’s legacy and influence can be seen in the work of several music composers in India today. His experimental and innovative style paved the way for the evolution of Indian film music, and his use of different instruments, rhythms, and sounds has inspired generations of musicians.
His music continues to be popular even today, and many of his songs have been remixed and reinterpreted by contemporary music composers. His legacy has also been celebrated through several tribute concerts and events, and his contribution to Indian music has been recognized with numerous awards and honors.
