In 1992, one young man, at just 24, changed the Tamil music industry with just one soundtrack, one movie that he says took everything from him so that he didn’t think he had any music left inside. Roja redefined Tamil film music, and became the music that defined AR Rahman.
When asked about what makes for a hit movie soundtrack, Rahman says, “You need an engine to pull audiences in, a hit song. But I think a soundtrack should also have a melody, I have always loved melodies.” Here, then, are the melodies from the genius composer’s golden years, the first decade of composing for Tamil cinema. Arguably the most beautiful music he has ever made.
(This was, of course, also the decade of glorious moustaches, happy halos of frizz, highly questionable fashion and pleasingly rounded women. Plus Sonali Bendre, Aishwarya Rai, Isha Koppikar and Kajol trying out the Tamil movie scene. In other words, the best of times and the worst of times. But mostly the best of times.)
Any songs you’re appalled we have left out? Tell us in the comments.
