I cannot say that I was a fan of Bappi Lahiri – certainly not in the way that I have loved R D Burman and A R Rahman’s music. However, with his passing, I now recall that I have actually loved several songs that were composed by him. He may have been known for his copy-cat ways, his love for disco and rather distinctive sense of style, but his body of music was impressive for many reasons. Now with BappiDa gone, people pay their tributes.
The singer-composer died of complications caused by obstructive sleep apnea; passing away at the age of 69.
While some of his music was derivative, much of his music was very original, melodious and memorable. As such, his impact and influence on Hindi music are very significant.
Bappi Lahiri was a composer who did a lot to introduce synthesised disco beats into Indian cinema music. I remember him more for his other, more somber compositions – such as for the film Sharabi – particularly the song Manzilein Apni Jagah Hai
His compositions were the floor-fillers of their time. However he also composed melodious songs for movies such as Chalte Chalte and Zakhmee.
His music also enjoyed fame far beyond Indian shores. Not too long ago, one of his songs was performed on a Russian talent show and went viral.
We were still saddened by the loss of Lata Mangeshkar when we received the news of Bappi Lahiri passing away.
The ITBP appears to have exceptional talent in their ranks. This rendition by a constable is actually better than the one by BappiDa himself for Satyamev Jayate.
The ever topical Sudarsan Pattnaik had his own unique tribute to pay – as he does to mark every significant occasion.
Including Sachin Tendulkar – who paid his own tribute to the singer-composer.
This is a hat tip to the man’s music – his song yaar bina chain kahan re – which is one of his well-known disco compositions. It is also a reference to his well-known penchant for gold chains – to the man who was the original king of bling. RIP Bappi Lahiri – from India and the world.
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