Renowned ghazal singer Raaza Razaaq offered an intimate glimpse into his musical journey in an exclusive interview with Timeline.
The in-depth conversation spanned nearly an hour with thoughtful reflections on everything from his breakout song Omalaale to his views on platonic love, collaborations, and the importance of recognising unsung talent.
Raaza began by revisiting his first original release, Omalaale, which brought his unique voice into the spotlight.
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He shared the emotional and creative process behind the track and how it helped define his identity in the ghazals and indie music world.
Speaking about the overwhelming response, Raaza expressed deep gratitude for the love and appreciation he received from listeners. He acknowledged that the song’s simplicity and soulfulness struck a chord with fans across generations.
Raaza emphasised his commitment to creating original compositions rather than relying on covers. He discussed the importance of staying true to one’s artistic voice and the challenges of crafting lyrics and melodies that resonate on a personal and universal level.
Raaza also spoke warmly about the songs fans most often request during his live concerts. While Omalaale remains a favourite, he noted that listeners often request lesser-known ghazals, showcasing the depth of appreciation among his audience.
A passionate advocate for recognising raw and regional talent, Raaza voiced concern about the many skilled artists who go unnoticed. He called for better platforms and fair exposure for musicians who lack industry backing but possess immense talent.
Raaza shared how he became a ghazal singer without any professional musical training. He credited his passion for poetry and natural sensitivity to rhythm and language as the driving forces behind his growth.
He spoke eloquently about the beauty and intricacy of Urdu ghazals. He emphasised their literary and emotional richness and how mastering the language opened new artistic dimensions for him.
Raaza paid heartfelt tribute to the legendary Malayalam ghazal singer Umbayi, recalling personal memories and the profound influence Umbayi had on his musical journey. He referred to him as a pioneer who gave Malayalam ghazals a distinct identity.
In a nostalgic moment, Raaza performed one of his favourite compositions by music legend M.S. Baburaj, capturing the melancholic essence that defines much of Kerala’s musical heritage.
He acknowledged the rise of Malayalam rap and praised artists like Vedan, expressing admiration for how new-age rappers are addressing social issues through powerful lyrical narratives.
Discussing creative collaborations, Raaza spoke highly of lyricist Shahul Hameed, calling him a poetic genius whose lyrics elevate any composition. He hinted at potential future projects with Hameed as well.
Raaza opened up about his estranged wife, Beegum. He acknowledged their past and how it influenced his music. His honesty added an emotional layer to the interview, revealing the man behind the artist.
He shared that despite personal differences, there’s still mutual artistic respect, and fans might see a collaborative effort in the future.
Raaza spoke about his independent musical venture, Kolaayi, a platform that blends poetry, music, and storytelling. He described it as a passion project aimed at nurturing unconventional voices in the music world.
Looking ahead, Raaza teased upcoming musical experiments that fuse traditional ghazal elements with modern arrangements. He expressed excitement about exploring new genres while staying rooted in the poetic essence of his music.
Wrapping up the conversation, Raaza reflected on the concept of platonic love, calling it one of the most misunderstood yet profound forms of human connection. He said much of his music is inspired by such emotional bonds that transcend physicality.
