JOIN USSpotlight on the daughter
Music for her is more than a passion. Daughter of Gulshan Kumar, Tulsi Kumar made her debut as a playback singer with the movie ‘Humko Deewana Kar Gaye’, which earned her much appreciation.
There was no looking back after that. She has to her credit songs like ‘Saiyaan Superstar’, ‘Mere Humsafar’, ‘Gulabi Aankhe’ among others.
In a chat with Surupasree Sarmmah, the talented singer talks about her journey in the industry, her love for music and more.
How was it growing up as the daughter of Gulshan Kumar?
There was always a musical atmosphere at home. I always got a chance to listen to the latest releases. Those were the days when songs of films like ‘Dil’, ‘Dil Hai Ke Manta Nahin’, ‘Aashiqui’, ‘Sadak’ were being made. I remember papa used to come home and play these songs and seek everyone’s opinion about them. I cherish those precious moments with him.
What did your father think of your voice?
I was a Bollywood buff and used to hum whichever song I heard. Once he heard me humming and thought I had a sweet voice and that’s how my training in music began.
How has your journey been so far?
It has been 10 years of good learning experience in the industry. I have got opportunities to work with a lot of music composers, with different genres of music and styles. There’s so much to learn from each song. The awards and appreciation are very encouraging.
One of your favourite songs that you have rendered...
There are two actually, ‘Tum jo aaye zindagi mein’ from ‘Once Upon a Time in Mumbaai’ and of course ‘Soch na sake’ from ‘Airlift’.
A singer you draw inspiration from...
Lots of them actually, but I have always followed and heard songs of Lata Mangeshkar and Asha Bhosle right from childhood. Sonu Nigam is another singer I admire. I learn something from everyone, not just my seniors but the younger lot as well.
Any other interest apart from singing?
I have always loved dancing. But I am now planning to pick up an instrument and start learning it. It could be either the keyboard or piano.
Many actors are taking to singing these days, your thoughts on it...
Some of them are really doing a good job. I liked how Parineeti Chopra rendered ‘Mana ke hum yaar’. I think artistes can express themselves in any way and there is no harm.
Any projects in the pipeline?
My single ‘Yaad’ will be coming out next month. Apart from that, I have sung for upcoming films like ‘Bhaagi 2’.I am also singing another version of ‘Lashke Kamar’.