The Dark Side of A. R. Rahman's Songs: Analyzing Some of His Worst Tunes
A. R. Rahman, one of the most renowned and acclaimed composers in the music industry, has contributed immensely to the soundtrack of countless movies over the years. Undeniably, his works are celebrated for their melodious tunes and innovative orchestration. However, it's also worth exploring a different side of his discography. In this article, we will delve into some of the less favorable tracks and songs by A. R. Rahman across the 1990s.
Three Not-So-Good Songs from the 90s
While Rahman composed numerous memorable and critically acclaimed songs, there are a few notable exceptions that might not be on everyone's playlist. Here are three tracks from the 1990s that, according to some critics, might not be considered among the best:
Eechaampazham - From the Film Pavithra
The melody of the song Eechaampazham in the Telugu film Pavithra has received mixed reactions. Some listeners and critics argue that the song's composition, lyrics, and overall execution do not match the level that fans and music lovers have come to expect from Rahman.
Ethukku Pondatti - From the Film Kizhakku Cheemayile
The song Ethukku Pondatti, featured in the 1995 Tamil movie Kizhakku Cheemayile, has gained a reputation for sounding somewhat generic and less captivating despite its musicality. The lack of a standout performance from the singers might have contributed to its modest reception.
Uppu Karuvadu - From the Film Mudalvan
The track Uppu Karuvadu from the 1991 Tamil film Mudalvan has been criticized for its overly repetitive nature and lack of innovative composition. The song lacks the melodic flair that Rahman has so often brought to his compositions, making it less memorable in the larger context of his catalog.
What Happened to Rahman's Music Post-2000?
It's not just these three songs that reflect a change in Rahman's music. Many critics argue that post-2000, his music has declined in quality. While he continued to compose for numerous films, some tracks did not meet the high standards set previously. Indeed, the decline in quality can be observed through a myriad of lesser-performed and less memorable songs during this period, with at least 50 being considered the worst.
Hitting the Ceiling with Superhero Themes
A. R. Rahman's foray into superhero-themed music with his first Telugu language film, Super Heros, garnered a mixed response from critics and audiences. While the film was successful, the soundtrack did not achieve the same level of acclaim as his previous works. Critics pointed out that the melodies and lyrics did not resonate as effectively, perhaps due to the shift in genre and theme.
The Falling Short of Expectations
A notable point of disappointment was the song from the 2004 film Sarkar. The film starred Aamir Khan and other esteemed actors, yet not a single song could gain critical acclaim or capture public attention. This silence in the music department stood out as a stark contrast to Rahman's previous achievements, suggesting a significant departure from his usual excellence.
While A. R. Rahman has undoubtedly left an indelible mark on the Indian music scene, his music is not without its faults. Exploring these lesser-known tracks and episodes can provide a more balanced perspective on his immense contribution to the world of music.