Global recognition for a song that's not my best, MM Keeravani on "Naatu Naatu"
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Oscar-winning composer MM Keeravani, also known as MM Kreem, recently shared his thoughts on winning the Academy Award for the song "Naatu Naatu" from the film RRR.
In an interview with The Indian Express, Keeravani expressed his surprise at receiving global recognition for a song he does not consider his best work.
"Naatu Naatu" from the film RRR won the Best Original Song category at the 2023 Academy Awards.
When asked if he felt the recognition was overdue, Keeravani remarked, "Whether it comes late or early, global recognition came for a song that’s not my best. Recognition arrives when it’s meant to, regardless of when we think it should." He reflected on the nature of time and recognition, suggesting that it is less about timing and more about the inevitability of acknowledgment.
Commenting on the current trends in Bollywood music, Keeravani noted that melody seems to have taken a backseat in modern compositions. "Melody deserves respect, whether it’s fast or slow. In musical terms, a melody represents a musical graph. For the general public, melody is often synonymous with something soothing and slow. Such melodies tend to stay in your heart and mind longer," he explained.
Reflecting on his Oscar moment, Keeravani shared his acceptance speech highlights. He mentioned his admiration for the 1970s pop group The Carpenters and adapted their song "Top Of The World" with his own lyrics to express his joy and pride. He sang, "There was only one wish on my mind... RRR has to win, pride of every Indian, and must put me on the top of the world."
"Naatu Naatu" triumphed over strong contenders including "Applause" from Tell It Like A Woman, "Hold My Hand" from Top Gun: Maverick, "Lift Me Up" from Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, and "This Is Life" from Everything Everywhere All At Once.
Keeravani is primarily known for his work in Tamil and Telugu cinema but has also composed music for several Hindi films, such as Criminal, Zakhm, Jism, Rog, and Saaya.