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Salim Merchant on Arijit Singh's Playback Exit: "Not Surprised At All"

Composer Salim Merchant expressed that he is not surprised by singer Arijit Singh's announcement to retire from playback singing. Merchant revealed he himself has not composed for a film in six years, citing a lack of happiness from film music. He noted that many in the industry are shifting focus but Arijit is the first to make a public statement about it. Merchant is confident Arijit will continue creating music, just independently rather than for films.

Key Points: Salim Merchant Reacts to Arijit Singh's Playback Retirement

  • Arijit Singh retires from playback singing
  • Salim Merchant not surprised by the move
  • Merchant stopped film music 6 years ago
  • Shift towards independent music in industry
  • Film music no longer a primary focus for many
2 min read

Salim Merchant on Arijit Singh's retirement from playback: Not surprised at all

Composer Salim Merchant says he's not surprised by Arijit Singh's decision to quit playback singing, revealing he himself stopped film music 6 years ago.

"I am not surprised at all. This had to happen, and this will happen to everyone. - Salim Merchant"

Mumbai, March 13

Acclaimed composer Salim Merchant opened up about celebrated singer and composer Arijit Singh announcing his retirement from playback.

During an exclusive conversation with IANS, Salim revealed that he is not surprised by Arjit's decision, as a lot of composers, singers, and other members of the music industry have been shifting their focus from film music.

He revealed that he himself has not composed for a movie in the last 6 years, ever since he came to the realization during COVID that film music is not giving him happiness.

When asked to react to Arjit's announcement of not taking any more work as a playback singer, Salim told IANS, "I am not surprised at all. This had to happen, and this will happen to everyone. I have also stopped making film music almost 6 years ago. If you ask me about my last movie, I would say it was "102 Not Out", which starred Rishi Kapoor and Amitabh Bachchan. It was the last film I did music for."

He added that despite being more focused on independent music, none of the composers and singers have released a public statement like Arijit that they will not be doing film music.

However, Salim expressed his confidence that Arijit will continue to come up with some amazing tunes in the future.

"Music is a very big field, of which playback is a very small part, so I don't think there is anything wrong with this. Arijit, I am sure, will still make a lot of music, maybe not for a movie, but he will surely do independent music," he added.

The composer further pointed out that although film music is great, a lot of music-based movies are not being made at the moment.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

R
Rohit P
Honestly, not surprised. The quality of film music has gone down so much. It's all about remixes and item numbers now. Talented artists like Arijit and Salim are right to seek creative satisfaction elsewhere. All the best to him!
A
Aman W
Salim Merchant hasn't composed in 6 years? Wow, I didn't even realize. "102 Not Out" had such a sweet soundtrack. It's a loss for Bollywood, but artists must follow their heart. Excited to see what kind of independent music Arijit creates.
S
Sarah B
As someone who follows both Indian and Western music scenes, this is a global trend. Artists are moving away from commercial constraints. Arijit Singh has a massive global fanbase. His independent work could be incredible.
K
Karthik V
While I respect his decision, I feel a bit let down as a fan. Playback singing is a cherished tradition in India. His voice defined a generation of romance. I hope he reconsiders someday, even if just for a special project.
N
Nisha Z
Good for him! The film industry can be toxic and creatively stifling. If it doesn't bring joy, why continue? More power to artists choosing their own path. The real music will find its audience, film or no film. 🎵

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