Legendary singer Usha Uthup is gearing up for an electrifying performance at the NH7 Weekender, set to take place on December 14 and 15, 2024, in Pune. Known for her massive fan base and captivating live shows, Uthup promises to bring her signature energy to the stage, ensuring every performance is unique.
In a heartfelt conversation, Usha Uthup spoke about her experiences, her live shows, and plans for a biopic.
A Belated Birthday Celebration
Reflecting on her recent birthday, Uthup shared how she spent it with family and close friends. While the occasion was bittersweet due to the recent loss of her husband, she was grateful for the support of her daughter, grandson, and other family members who traveled to be with her. She spent the morning with her studio team, celebrating with cake and snacks before enjoying the rest of the day with her loved ones.
A Special Year: Padma Bhushan Recognition
2024 has been a memorable year for Uthup, especially with receiving the prestigious Padma Bhushan award. Accompanied by her family, Uthup had the honor of attending the ceremony at Rashtrapati Bhavan. Reflecting on her career, Uthup expressed gratitude for the recognition and emphasized the power of music to transcend all barriers. Despite lacking formal musical training, Uthup’s passion for music has allowed her to touch lives and bring joy to her fans.
The Secret to Uthup’s Electrifying Performances
When asked about her secret to consistently delivering high-energy performances, Uthup explained that reinvention is key. She emphasized that each performance of classic songs like ‘Dum Maro Dum’ or ‘Darling’ feels fresh and new, as she strives to connect with the audience in meaningful ways. “Music is not my business; communication is,” she said, highlighting her dedication to expressing emotions through her art.
Expectations from NH7 Weekender
Uthup is excited to perform at NH7 Weekender, a festival known for bringing together a diverse range of artists. She shared that fans can expect a mix of Hindi, English, and Marathi songs, depending on the audience’s preferences. “It’s going to be a mixed bag, and I’m ready to sing in whatever languages people want to hear,” she said.
The Unique Appeal of NH7 Weekender
Uthup praised NH7 Weekender for its ability to bring together artists from across India and the globe. She sees it as a rare platform where the energy of the audience and performers creates an unforgettable experience. “NH7 is the closest to being a cracker of a show,” she added.
Biopic Plans and Vidya Balan’s Interest
Uthup also shared her excitement about the potential for a biopic on her life. She revealed that producers have approached actress Vidya Balan for the role, but nothing concrete has materialized yet due to the current market situation. “The right time will come for this story to unfold,” she said.
Embracing Social Media and Modern Music
Uthup’s presence on social media, particularly her renditions of Miley Cyrus’ “Flowers” and Adele’s “Skyfall,” has received widespread praise. Uthup sees social media as a wonderful tool to connect with a global audience and bridge generational gaps in music. She finds it fascinating how the younger generation reacts to her versatile performances, shifting seamlessly from classic hits to contemporary tracks.
The Enduring Charm of Retro Music
Uthup also weighed in on the changing landscape of music, acknowledging that while trends evolve, retro music continues to hold a special place in people’s hearts. “Songs like ‘Eena Meena Deeka’ and ‘Mera Naam Chin Chin Chu’ are timeless because they were given the time to become classics,” she said, adding that the same is true for newer music, which will be appreciated as time passes.
