Short Summary
S. P. Balasubrahmanyam was an iconic Indian playback singer, music director, and actor known for his versatile singing range and contribution to Indian cinema. Over his career spanning more than five decades, he recorded over 40,000 songs in various Indian languages, earning him a place in the Guinness World Records. He was honored with numerous awards, including the National Film Award and the Padma Bhushan, reflecting his immense impact on the music industry.
Early Life & Education
S. P. Balasubrahmanyam was born on June 4, 1946, in Nellore, Andhra Pradesh, India. He was the second son in a family of eight children. His father, S. P. Sambamurthy, was a Harikatha performer, which exposed him to music from an early age. Despite his initial interest in engineering, his passion for music led him to pursue a career in singing. He attended JNTU College of Engineering Anantapur but left midway to focus on music. His talent was recognized during his college years, where he participated in various singing competitions.
Career Highlights
Balasubrahmanyam's career took off when he was introduced to the Telugu music industry in 1966. His breakthrough came with the song "Aayiram Nilave Vaa" in Tamil, which established him as a prominent playback singer. He became a dominant figure in South Indian music, working with legendary composers like Ilaiyaraaja and A. R. Rahman. His collaboration with Bollywood music directors, especially for Salman Khan's films in the 1990s, brought him national fame. He also ventured into acting and music direction, contributing significantly to the Indian entertainment industry.
Major Achievements
- Recorded over 40,000 songs in multiple Indian languages, setting a Guinness World Record.
- Won six National Film Awards for Best Male Playback Singer across different languages.
- Received the Padma Shri in 2001 and the Padma Bhushan in 2011 for his contributions to Indian arts.
- Played a significant role in popularizing Indian film music globally.
- Collaborated with leading music directors, enhancing the quality and reach of Indian cinema music.
Famous Quotes
- "Music is a language that transcends boundaries."
- "Singing is a divine gift, and I am blessed to have been able to share it with the world."
Interesting Facts
- He recorded songs not only in Indian languages but also in English, Russian, and Japanese.
- His voice was the playback for actor Kamal Haasan in numerous Tamil movies.
- He was a trained engineer who initially pursued music as a hobby.
- Balasubrahmanyam was known for recording more than 19 songs in a single day.
- He was also a talented voice-over artist, dubbing for several actors in various films.
Legacy / Influence
S. P. Balasubrahmanyam's legacy is profound in the Indian music industry. His unmatched versatility and prolific output have inspired countless artists. His songs continue to resonate with audiences, transcending linguistic and cultural barriers. He played a pivotal role in elevating the standards of playback singing in Indian cinema, leaving an indelible mark on the industry.
FAQ
Q: Why is S. P. Balasubrahmanyam famous?
A: He is famous for his exceptional contribution as a playback singer in Indian cinema, recording over 40,000 songs in multiple languages.
Q: How many National Film Awards did he win?
A: He won six National Film Awards for Best Male Playback Singer.
Q: Did he receive any national honors?
A: Yes, he received the Padma Shri in 2001 and the Padma Bhushan in 2011.
