Alisha Chinai, a voice that once transformed Indian pop music, is making a significant return, not merely as a nostalgic figure but as an artist driven by passion and a desire to complete her musical journey.
The inspiration for her comeback came unexpectedly through a call from Shamir Tandon, who proposed the idea of reimagining Kishore Kumar's duet songs, two tracks that hold a special place in her heart. "I was thrilled to get back to the microphone," she shares.
This enthusiasm was evident in her performance for Ek Aur Baar Kishore Kumar, where Alisha approached these timeless classics not as a mere homage but as a vibrant performer fully engaged in the experience. "Singing these cherished melodies was a joy; it felt like traveling back in time," she reflects.
She infused songs like Kya Yahi Pyaar Hai with a fresh sense of romance and brought a playful seduction to Nahi Nahi, showcasing the magic of the lyrics and melodies.
Alisha's connection with Kishore Kumar goes beyond music. She describes him as "eccentric, genius, multi-talented, and often misunderstood," qualities she sees in herself as well. She addresses the misconceptions about her personality, stating, "People may perceive me as arrogant, but I am simply confident and stand firm in my beliefs."
Having observed the evolution of the music industry from vinyl to digital, she expresses her concerns about the current landscape. "Technology has gradually diminished the essence of true artistry," she asserts. "The warmth, depth, and sincerity of music have taken a backseat to production and fleeting fame."
However, she acknowledges the changes, recognizing that social media has transformed the music scene, allowing new artists to emerge. "While it has its benefits, the challenge lies in sustaining fame and talent over time," she notes, emphasizing the importance of live performances in today's music industry.
Alisha's advice to aspiring musicians is straightforward: "Persevere. Success takes time, and dreams are worth fighting for."
After stepping back from the limelight, she reflects on her hiatus, attributing it to burnout and disillusionment with industry practices. "The system is tough for singers and musicians, and I chose not to engage with it anymore," she explains, despite her successful solo career at the time.
Currently, she is selective in her listening, expressing admiration for contemporary artists like Arijit Singh and Zubeen Garg, whom she describes as possessing extraordinary talent.
When it comes to collaborations, Alisha dreams big, mentioning a desire to work with Adele. "That would be a dream come true," she smiles.
Among her works, she holds a special fondness for the song Tinka Tinka, describing it as "ethereal and timeless."
Excitingly, she confirms that new music is on the horizon, with plans for an album and upcoming releases.
If Made in India were to be reintroduced today, Alisha believes it would naturally find its own style without forced changes. "Real music finds its rhythm at the right moment," she asserts.
Years later, Alisha Chinai is not merely seeking relevance; she is reclaiming her space in the music world on her own terms.