'Reality shows are a choice people make'

Singing sensation

Bollywood singer Pawni Pandey doesn’t remember when she sang for the first time. But the young artiste who made everyone hum ‘Laila Main Laila’ from ‘Raees’ and ‘Sahiba’ from ‘Phillauri’ recently, is excited when she talks about her musical journey. In a candid chat with Tini Sara Anien, she talks about her projects and more.

You have made many sing a tune or two. Which was your first song?

(Thinks) I think I was three when I first sang ‘Tu Mera Dil Tu Meri Jaan’ with my father and I was smiling like crazy.

From reality shows to Bollywood -- define your journey.

I have moved on from singing in reality shows to being in touch with reality. In reality shows, one has to show things that appeal to the audience too, but once you’re out of the show and making your own career, you’re in the actual business. I am quite happy now.

How important are reality shows?

Musical reality shows have been around since the 90s and they have given us some amazing singers.

They give one the exposure and experience needed. But there are also artistes who have not been a part of any shows. Reality shows are a choice people make.

Recording in a studio or live performances -- which is your favourite?

I really love being on the stage. I also know that I will get more stage shows if I record more interesting songs. The more songs I do, the more I am on stage too. The experiences are very different.

During recording, one has to be technically sound, while on stage one can be wild and interactive.

While on stage, you cannot go back and correct a blooper unlike during the recording.

Which song changed your career graph?

It has to be ‘Laila Main Laila’. No second thoughts on that. A song like that makes grand changes to an artiste’s life.

Music directors are more confident about me now. ‘Laila Main Laila’ was a great testimonial.

What do you like singing — melodies or peppy numbers?

I really love singing melodies. I find them to be more soulful and peaceful. I connect to them better. I love dancing though, so I do need my peppy numbers too.

Someone you are deeply influenced by in the industry.

Lata Mangeshkarji. There is no musician as perfect as Lataji. She is the ultimate singer and I really idolise her.

Some artistes you would like to work with...

If it is singers, then Arijit Singh, Shreya Ghoshal and Sunidhi Chauhan. When it comes to music directors, I want to work with AR Rahman and Vishal–Shekhar.

Your future project...

I have a few projects in the pipeline. My song ‘Sweety Tera Drama’ in ‘Bareilly Ki Barfi’ released recently. My other projects are ‘Julie 2’ and ‘Guns of Benaras’.

A few things you remind yourself when you’re on stage...

I just make it a point that I have fun. And that I give people the time of their lives.

According to you, the traits every singer should have...

Patience is of utmost importance. Consistency in everything you do and the will to work hard.

If not a singer, what would you have been?

An Indian Air Force pilot. I love flying high in the sky.