Even though I heard alot of his music as a child. It is only now that I am coming to terms with the lyrics. I enjoy them much more now. Some songs can be heard via this blog too.
He was a sensation in his time. The period of the 50s is still called the golden period for Indian music. For people like C.Ramchand, Salil Chowdhury, Roshan and Anil Biswas, Talat sang some of the most memorable songs. I dont want this to be biographical but certain things just need to be highlighted to emphasize his contribution.
Introduced as the Frank Sinatra of India on the extremely popular Joe Franklin show, he was Indias first singer do a concert tour. Performed to packed houses in Madison square garden.
Was a huge star when he started off. As grapewine has it, Talat went on a haj for two months. Mohammed Rafi happened in those two months. Rafis popularity soared and Talat soon had competition. He was however, still a favorite with music directors for the blues sort of music. His smooth velvety voice was irreplacable.
With loud music catching up, Talat sort of songs were soon not popular anymore. Alot of factors actually contributed to his decline. Salil Chowdhury and C.Ramchand were on their way out. Also a smoking habit, slowly reduced the amazing charm the voice once contained.
His ghazals though are still among the most popular non-film albums.
The songs found on this blog are the most popular film songs of his. Do take some time out and listen to them."Sham-e-gum" is my favourite with "pyar par bas to nahin hai" coming a close second!
This is only a small effort to introduce you to some good old Indian blues. People who enjoy Rafi and Kishores sad(!) numbers will definitely like these ones too.
(see the songs at the bottom the playlist on the right)
(few songs in the playlist at the bottom)
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