Blaaze
Encyclopedia
Blaaze (born Lakshmi Narasimha Vijaya Rajagopal Seshadri Sharma Rajesh Raman (a Tamil) on October 15, 1975 in Chennai
, India
) is a rap artist and a popular playback singer in Indian films
. An Indian by birth, born in Chennai
, he grew up in Zambia
and later did his education in England
and in the US
. Currently signed to EMI / Virgin Music.
, Tamil Nadu
, India
, later raised in Kitwe
, Zambia
, educated in England
and graduated from Columbia College Hollywood
, United States
. His father being an architect, his family toured around the entire country with Blaaze starting to perform Breakdance on the sets his father designed, when he was 9. He then moved on to rapping and his music career began with a performance for President Chiluba of Zambia
during the election campaign in October 1991 at the age of 16 and just 5 months later he produced and performed in Zambia's first ever music video Advice 4 Livin with the Zambian national broadcasting corporation.
Ten years later, in 2002 his entry into the Indian film industry happened, when A. R. Rahman
appointed Blaaze to sing his first song in Tamil cinema
, the "Baba Rap" for Rajinikanth's movie Baba
. Thereafter he performed for several Chennai film industry songs frequently under Rahman's direction on scores for Kangalal Kaidhu Sei
, Boys, Enakku 20 Unakku 18
, New
, Aayutha Ezhuthu, Anbe Aaruyire
and Hindi films like Saathiya, Yuva
, Rang de Basanti
and Swades
. He also worked as a lyricist on Kisna, Tehzeeb
and even on the Mandarin
film Warriors of Heaven and Earth
, which all had musical score by Rahman as well. Other music directors from the film industry also started using Blaaze's rap talent in their films like Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy
for Bunty Aur Babli
, Yuvan Shankar Raja
for Manmadhan
and Vallavan
and the likes of Harris Jayaraj
, Joshua Sridhar
, Deva
inter alia for their films respectively. He has also done the rap lyrics for the title track of the famous Star One show Remix
.
His recent songs are "The Boss" and "Style
" for Sivaji: The Boss
, "Hey Salaa" for Aegan
, "Gangsta Blues" for Slumdog Millionaire
, "Hosanna" for Vinnaithaandi Varuvaayaa and "Dilli-6" for Delhi-6
. He also co-wrote the song "Dreams on Fire" from Slumdog Millionaire, as well as being the lyricist on Gangsta Blues, from Slumdog Millionaire.
He has appeared in Ennadi from Vathiyar
. Blaaze's most recent song for the Chennai film industry is "Hosanna" from Vinnaithaandi Varuvaayaa
With guidance from A. R. Rahman
, BlaaZe wrote the official UN Anthem for Poverty, "Pray For Me Brother
". His continued perseverance to rap about issue-oriented subjects earned him the nation's vote for MTV Youth Icon of the Year
2008.
He has recently rapped in Mohanlal
's yet to be released Malayalam movie, Casanova and also in Unnaipol Oruvan Tamil film with Shruthi Haasan, daughter of Kamal Haasan
.
He is the lyricist for two songs on the Vince Vaughn
motion picture Couples Retreat. "Sajna", co-written with A. R. Rahman
, and, "NaNa
", co-written with Vivian Chaix and A. R. Rahman
His band, ZambeZi funK, is ready with their debut album, funKalistiC syllaBleZ.
His non-film work comprises issue oriented music, with messages being spread on the Gujarat Riots, Bilkis Bano, the religion issues in India, banning of corrupt police in the song "Ban The Crooked Police"... Inquilab, and "Stand Up Unite", for the Mumbai terror attacks.
His recent works with A. R. Rahman
is on the Thirukkurral.
His recent performance with A R Rahman at the Jai Ho World Tour in Sydney's Paramatta Park saw a crowd turnout of 75,000 fans to celebrate the Sydney Festival, where he performed the song "Na Na" from Couples Retreat and "Gangsta Blues" from Slumdog Millionaire.
He performed at the BAFTA theatre, London, along with A R Rahman in December 2009, for the launch of Tamil Film Soundtrack, Vinnaithandi Varuvaaya, directed by Gautham Menon.
He has worked as a Music Director for Warner Bros film Saas, Bahu Aur Sensex, with the song on a new age India, called, "What's Up India". The film was directed by Shona Urvashi.
He has also worked as Music Director for the soundtrack of the film Striker.
In September 2011, 'Time For Gandhi' - BlaaZe's debut album - India's first real hip hop 'Protest' album - released on EMI VIRGIN MUSIC
Chosen out of 8,000 probables, and voted as India's favourite, MTV Networks, announced its 8 winners of the Pepsi MTV Youth Icon Awards in 2008. BlaaZe won the votes for his contribution to socially relevant issues through his music, and his lyrics for the official UN anthem on poverty alleviation, Pray For Me, Brother, composed by A R Rahman.
Words of wisdom, words are true / Yo my mama taught me all of that and more too / sayin' what is to happen, it will happen / Dear son, don't look back, just keep on rappin' / and if it's all good and you're keepin' it true / this whole wide world will recognise you...”
Time For Gandhi - BlaaZe's debut album - India's first real hip hop 'Protest' album - released on EMI VIRGIN MUSIC
June 2011
Michael Bolton
- lyricist for the song Sajna, sung by Michael Bolton, composed by A R Rahman, from the album, Gems
May 2011
Star Music Vijay Awards - Best Male Singer - Hosanna
Received the award for the Best Male Singer 2010, along with singer Vijay Prakash, for the song, Hosanna, by A R Rahman.
April 2011
Dheem Tharikita - Composed and sung the theme song for the Chennai Super Kings IPL Cricket season 2011, along with Paul Jacob
March 2011
Jai Ho Live – In Concert – NIT calicut
Live show with Stephen Devassy
, Vijay Prakash
and Suvi Suresh
at the annual cultural fest of NIT Calicut, Ragam
Jan 2010
BAFTA Theatre – London
He performed live at the BAFTA Theatre London, UK, for the music launch of Tamil movie Vinnai Thandi Varuvaaya.
Paramatta Park – Sydney Music Festival – Australia
He performed live at Paramatta Park Sydney as part of the Sydney Music Festival along with AR Rahman, Hariharan, Sivamani and other stars. Performed the songs from Couples Retreat and Slumdog Millionaire.
Dec 2009
Jai Ho Live – In Concert – Kolkatta
Performed live in concert as part of the Jai Ho tour by AR Rahman, in Kolkatta.
Nov 2009
Casanovva The film title Song
Recorded a song for the Malayalam movie, CASANOVVA. Music By Gopi Sundar.
Deal Or No Deal – Sun TV
Appeared on the Tamil version of the hit show, Deal or no deal special celebrity episode.
Nov 2009
Music Director – Striker the film
Co-wrote and Composed the music along with Paul Jacob for the film Striker, for a song called Aim Lagaa.
Jai Ho Live – In Concert – Hyderabad
Performed live in concert as part of the Jai Ho tour by AR Rahman, in Hyderabad.
Oct 2009
Blue – the film – AR Rahman
Recorded the song for the movie, Blue. Music by AR Rahman.
Jai Ho Live – in concert - Chennai, India
Performed live in concert along with AR Rahman and others.
Sept 2009
Shruti Hassan – Unnai Pol Oruvan
Lyricist / Rapper and performance in the music video for the theme song from Kamal Hassan’s movie, Unnai Pol Oruvan, along with music director Shruti Hassan.
Aug 2009
Jai Hind TV Calicut Concert
Solo Performance - live at the Jai Hind Concert with songs on issues like H1N1 and Inquilab.
Sultan – Rajnikanth – Usher – AR Rahman
Lyricist for the title song in Rajnikanth’s Sultan. Music by AR Rahman. Produced by Ocher Studios.
July 2009
Couples Retreat – Vince Vaughn – AR Rahman
Singer and lyricist for two songs on Vince Vaughn’s film, Couples Retreat
. Wrote the songs, Sajna and NaNa, along with AR Rahman. Released on Relativity Music.
June 2009
Sakkarakatti – Telugu dub
Recorded the Telugu version of the song, Taxi Taxi, from the movie Sakkarakatti. Music by AR Rahman.
Live – in concert – Pune – India
Performed live in Pune along with AR Rahman.
May 2009
Vinnaithandi Varuvaaya – Gautham Menon
Recorded the song, Hosanna
, for the movie Vinnaithandi Varuvaaya. Directed by Gautham Menon. Music by AR Rahman.
Live – in concert – Calicut, India
Performed live in concert in calicut, along with Ar Rahman and a host of stars.
Feb 2009
Delhi – 6
Recorded the title song for the movie, delhi 6, directed by Rakeysh Mehra, music by AR Rahman.
Jan 2008
Inquilab – BlaaZe & Prince Ali
Recorded and co-wrote the theme song, Inquilab, for the Mumbai Terror Attacks victims. Composed by Prince Ali. Video shot by MTV.
Dec 2008
MTV YOUTH ICON 2008 WINNER
Chosen out of 8000 probables, and voted as India's favourite rapper, MTV Networks, announced its 8 winners of the Pepsi MTV Youth Icon Awards in 2008. BlaaZe won the votes for his contribution to socially relevant issues through his music
Dec 2008
Aashirvad Ad – Rajiv Menon
Singer on the ad for Aashirvad. Directed by Rajiv Menon. Composed by Srinivas.
Nov 2008
Slumdog Millionaire
Lyricist and singer on Gangsta Blues from Slumdog Millionaire. Co-lyricist on, Dreams On Fire, from the same movie.
Maruti A – Star launch
Composer, lyricist and performance at the launch of Maruti A Star Car in Delhi, India.
Oct 2008
ESPN Cricket Anthem
Performed on the official ESPN Cricket Anthem, composed by AR Rahman.
Sept 2008
Global One Music
Lyricist and rapper on a song produced by Rob Hoffman and Charlie Dilks of Globalonemusic.com. A collaboration of 25 artists from across the world on One Unique Song. Representing India along with Sonu Niigam.
Aug 2008
Nokia Connections – AR Rahman
Rapper and lyricist on the song ‘Kural’ from the nokia exclusive album Connections, by A R Rahman.
Boys – the movie (Hindi)
Recorded the Hindi version of the hit songs, Dating, and Secret Of Success, from the film, Boys.
June 2008
TV Jingle
Rapper in a TV Jingle composed by Timothy Madhukar.
May 2008
Live - in concert
Performed in Dubai and Chennai. Along with A R Rahman and a host of other Indian stars.
Performed at the STAR Vijay TV Awards, along with scratchmaster Kave.
April 2008
Live – in concert
Performed in Jaipur, India. Along with A R Rahman and a host of other Indian stars.
Yuvvraaj – Subhash Ghai
Recorded two songs and co-wrote the lyrics for the film. Music by AR Rahman.
Mar 2008
Hyderabad Airport Song
Co Lyricist for Hyderabad Airport Song, music by AR Rahman.
Feb 2008
Star Vijay TV – Jodi No.1 – Music Director
Composed and rapped for Star TV show, Jodi No. 1.
Live – in concert Chennai
Performed live in concert with AR Rahman and a host of stars.
Sultan trailer – Ocher Films
Recorded for the trailer of Rajnikanth’s Sultan. Music by AR Rahman.
Jan 2008
Reliance Ad
Recorded a song for the ad, chasing Butterflies, for Reliance. Music by Timothy Madhukar.
Filmfare Awards Live In concert
Performed at the filmfare awards Mumbai, India, along with AR Rahman.
Dec 2007
Live – in concert – Delhi, India
Performed Live in concert in Delhi, along with AR Rahman.
Vidyasagar – Mere Baap Pehle Aap
Recorded a song for the movie, Mere Baap Pehle Aap. Music by Vidyasagar.
Nov 2007
Music Director – Warner Bros – Saas Bahu Aur Sensex
Composed and co-wrote the song, What’s Up India, for the Warner Bros Film, Saas Bahu Aur Sensex, directed by Shona Urvashi.
Oct 2007
Star Vijay Gameshow Title Song
Wrote and rapped for Star Vijay’s TV show, Thirandhidu Sesame.
Sept 2007
McCann Agency – Prasoon Joshi
Ad for Prasoon Joshi. McCann Agency India.
July 2007
Live – in concert USA
Performed in concert at venues in USA along with AR Rahman and a host of stars.
May 2007
Yash Raj films -Jhoom Barabar Jhoom – Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy
Rapper on song, Jhoom, from the movie Jhoom Barabar Jhoom, music by Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy, produced by Yash Raj films.
Sivaji – Background Score
Recorded a background theme for the Rajnikanth film, Sivaji, music composed by AR Rahman.
April 2007
Worldspace A R Radio Ad -Rahman
Recorded the rap in the worldspace ad for A R Rahman.
Jhoom Barabar Jhoom - Shankar – Ehsaan – Loy
Recorded the rap in a song for the title track from the movie, Jhoom Barabhar Jhoom.
Mar 2007
Sivaji – Rajnikanth - A R Rahman
Recorded the song The Boss in Tamil and Telugu for the movie Sivaji. Music by AR Rahman.
Sun TV
Recorded the theme rap for the TV show, Anbudan. Music by Sathish.
Sagar Desai
Recorded the rap in a song from the film Mithya. Music by Sagar Desai.
Feb 2007
Radio One (Chennai)
Recorded the jingle for the theme song for Radio One 94.3 fm
Dec 2006
Mani Rathnam – Guru
Background score rap for the movie Guru. Music by AR Rahman
Oct 2006
Jaane Tu Ya Jaane Na
Recorded a song called Pappu Can’t dance, for Abbas Tyrewalla’s film, Jaane Tu Ya Jaane Na. Music by AR Rahman.
Recorded a song for Varalaaru – Godfather.
Recorded a song for the background score of Sillunu Oru Kadhal.
Sept 2006
Vallavan – the film
Background score rap for the movie, Vallavan. Music by Yuvan Shankar Raja.
Munna – the film
Recorded a rap bit in the Telugu film song, Munna.Music by Harris Jayaraj.
S J Surya / Deva
Recorded the rap bit in the title song, Vyabari.
Aug 2006
Oram Po - Auto
Recorded the title song for the movie, Oram Po, music by GV Prakash.
July 2006
Game – the movie (Telugu)
Recorded three more rap bits in the songs for the movie Game (Hyderabad Mast Mega City, Chinamma and bgm rap ). Music by Joshua Shridhar.
July 2006
Vaathiyar – Music Video
Recorded and featured in the song, Yennadi Muniamma, for the movie Vaathiyar, along with actor Arjun. Music by D Immam.
June 2006
Madurai Veeran / Game
Recorded the songs for the movies, Game in Telugu, and Madurai Veeran (yadhava ) in Tamil. Music by Joshua Shridhar.
May 2006
Chennai Kadhal – the film
Recorded the song, Enjoy, for the movie Chennai Kadhal. Music by Joshua Shridhar.
March 2006
Vallavan – the film
Recorded the song, Loose Penne, for the movie Vallavan. Music by Yuvan Shankar Raja.
Feb 2006
Commonwealth Theme Song
Recorded the rap on the Indian Commonwealth theme song. Music by Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy.
Dec 2005
Warif Telecom
Recorded the rap for Pakistans leading telecom company. Warid. Music by Khalif. Recorded in Mumbai.
A R Rahman
Recorded the idea for the film song, Style, for the movie, Sivaji.
Reliance – Bada Game
Recorded the ad for Reliance, Bada game. Music by Amartya.
Shaan
Recorded the raps for two songs on Shaan’s new album. Music by Ranjit Barot.
Sept 2005
Asha Bhosle
Recorded the Mumbai Theme song along with Asha Bhosle. For release outside India. Music by Shamir Tandon.
Sept 2005
TVS Apache Ad
Recorded the song for the launch of TVS Apache bikes in India, in five different languages. Tamil, Hindi, Kannada, Telugu, Malayalam and English.
July 2005
A R Rahman Tsunami Concert
Performance at Karaikal, South India in association with ‘Save The Children’ and NDTV.
July 2005
Filmfare Awards – South
Performance at the 52nd Filmfare Awards with a special presentation of BnB and Baba Rap.
April 2005
Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy (Yashraj Films)
Bunty Aur Babli – B n B
Rapper & Lyricist for the song B n B from the Yashraj Films production of Bunty aur Babli. Music by Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy and directed by Shaad Ali Sehgal. Music video as well featuring Amitabh Bhachan as Uncle B.
Host on MTV Making of the video with Amitabh Bhachan for the same song.
A R Rahman / Rakeysh Mehra – Rang De Basanti
Lyricist and Rapper for the song, The Rebel, for the movie Rang de Basanti directed by Rakeysh Mehra and music by A R Rahman.
Diet Coke Ad
Singer / Rapper on ad for Diet Coke. Recorded in Mumbai.
Jan 2005
Kisna - Subhash Ghai
Lyricist for the song, My wish comes true, from the movie Kisna. Music by AR Rahman.
Oct. 2004
A R Rahman - Swades
Performed the Dhaba Rap on the bgm of the movie Swades, directed by Oscar Nominee, Ashutosh Gowariker and music by A R Rahman.
Karkka Kasadara – Tamil film
Recorded a duet with Mahalaxmi, for music director Steven, for the movie Karkka Kasadara, directed by R V Udaykumar. Due for release in Jan. 2005.
99.9 fm – (Hindi film)
Composed and Performed in the video for the title song of the film 99.9fm, directed by Sanjay Bhatia.
Oct. 2004
SS MUSIC – Rap Workshop
Conducted a Rap Workshop for contestants of a nationwide voice hunt for SS Music channel and also chose the final upcoming stars as a judge for the final show along with personalities from the film and music industry.
Sept 2004
Coco Lee
Co-lyricist and Rapper on a song called, No Doubt, in collaboration with multi-platinum recording artist Coco Lee, based in Hong Kong, for her first single from the album Exposed. Appearance in the video as well. Releasing on Sony Music in March 2005.
Sept 2004
Star TV – Theme Song
Music by Pritam. Theme song for new Series on Star TV called RemiX and also voice of the channel id STAR ONE – apni tuning jamegi.
99.9 fm – The Movie
Directed by Sanjay Bhatia. ZambeZi FunK compose four Radio Jingles for the movie. Theme Title Song composed and performed by BlaaZe
August 2004
Aap Jaisa Koi (remix by DJ Aqeel)
Rapper on the song, Get the Look, along with Vaishali Sawant, composed by DJ Aqeel. Rap appearance in video directed by Ananth Surapur.
July 2004
Nickolodeon – ZambeZi FunK
Theme song for NICKOLODEON composed and performed by ZambeZi FunK
MTV Promo Theme – ZambeZi FunK.
Aisa Bhi Waisa Bhi – theme song composed and performed by ZambeZi FunK
June 2004
ZambeZi FunK
The group, ZambeZi FunK is formed along with musician and composer, Sagar Desai. Together, work begins on THE ALBUM.
American Blend – the movie
Lyricist and Rapper for a movie set for release in Feb. 2005. A jugalbandhi of Kathak vs Rap. Music by Abu Malik.
April 2004
Yuvan Shankar Raja – Manmadhan
Lyricist and Rapper on the title song from the movie, Manmadhan.
March 2004
Shaan - The Video
Rapper on the video, Mujhe Naa Kehna Nahi Aatha, in collaboration with Shaan, for the second single of the new album Aksar. To be released on Virgin Records. Video directed by Vikram Aditya.
Madhur Bhandarkar – Page 3
Lyricist and Rapper on a song from the movie, Page 3, directed by Madhur Bhandarkar, composed by Shamir Tandon.
Feb 2004
Ken Ghosh
Lyricist and Rapper on a song from the movie, Fidaa, directed by Ken Ghosh.
Jan 2004
Yuva - Mani Rathnam
Recorded the Rap song Dol Dol, for the movies Yuva and Ayudhu Ezhuthu directed by Mani Rathnam and composed by A R Rahman.
A R Rahman – S J Surya
Lyricist and Rapper on the title song of the Tamil movie, NEW, directed by SJ Surya and composed by A R Rahman.
A R Rahman’s Unity Of Light World Tour – 2nd schedule
Performance in Dubai. Continuation of the tour.
Dec 2003
Official Countdown – Singapore
Featured in the Top 100 songs in Singapore’s official countdown with 3 Top 20 songs. DATING ( BlaaZe and Vasundara Das), from the movie Boys at 20. KAMA KAMA ( BlaaZe and Kunal ) from the movie E20 U18 at number 5. SECRET OF SUCCESS ( Lucky Ali, BlaaZe and Vasundara Das ), from the movie Boys at number 3. All songs composed by A R Rahman.
A R Rahman’s Unity Of Light World Tour – 2nd schedule
Continued the second leg of the tour performing in Malaysia to a crowd of 30, 000. Performed the new songs from the Movie BOYS as well as my Solo Raps. Featured live on Malaysia’s Radio Raaga fm.
Nov 2003
Shaan
Recorded as the Lyricist and Rapper on a collaboration for the new album by Indian pop sensation, Shaan. To be released on Virgin Records.
Oct 2003
Tehzeeb - A R Rahman / Khalid Mohammed
Lyricist for the song I Wanna Be Free, for the movie Tehzeeb, directed by Khalid Mohammed and composed by A R Rahman. Sung by Anupama and Mathangi.
Sept 2003
Kisna - A R Rahman / Subhash Ghai
Lyricist for the song Save Me, for the new movie, Kisna, directed by Subhash Ghai and composed by A R Rahman. Sung by Sunitha Sarathy.
Aug 2003
Dynamic Fusion – Delhi
Performed at the dynamic fusion concert in Delhi alongside Talat Aziz, Louis Banks, Shaan, Rakesh Chaurasia and others with a blend of hip hop to ghazal and Hindi pop. Covered by Sony Entertainment Television, to be broadcast as a series of concerts later.
July 2003
A R Rahman – Warriors of Heaven and Earth
Lyricist for the song, Warriors In Peace from the Chinese movie, Warriors of Heaven and Earth, music composed by A R Rahman and song sung by Jolin and Sunitha Sarathy.
June 2003
BOYS – (Acting) Directed by Shankar
Performed as the MTV VJ BlaaZe’ in a cameo role in the Tamil movie BOYS, directed by Shankar and produced by AM Ratnam.
BOYS – (Movie - Voice dubbing)
Voice dubbing for a character called Tarun in Tamil.
May 2003
A R Rahman
Lyricist and Rapper for the song. ‘Secret Of Success,’ from the movie BOYS, directed by Shankar and composed by A R Rahman. Also re-recorded the song DATING from the movie BOYS in Telugu.
Jan - April 2003
A R Rahman’s Unity Of Light World Tour
Hip hoppin all across the globe – India-USA-Canada-Dubai – along with 88 musicians and other artistes. Performing raps on O Humdum and Chori Pe Chori from Saathiya, onstage live jam session with Sivamani and rappin on Ooh La La, the Baba Rap and rappin on Humma Humma.
March 2003
Save the Children Charity Concert-Gateway Of India
Performed at the Gateway Of India along with Sivamani on percussions and Niladri on sitar, in aid of ‘Save The Children.’ Photo article carried in Times Of India.
March 2003
A R Rahman
Lyricist and Rapper on the song ‘Ding-a-Ling’in the movie, E20 U18, for A R Rahman, produced by A M Ratnam.
Lyricist for a song in the movie ‘NEW’, composed by A R Rahman and directed by Surya.
Rapping for Star Movies promo on NRI films – made in India.
Jan 2003
Kedho Tumhe – DJ Aqeel
Recorded the rap on DJ Aqeel’s first single along with the original voice of Kishore Kumar…video to be released in April on Universal Music
Dec. 2002
AR Rahman
Recorded the rap in a song for the Tamil movie, Kangalal Kaithu Sei, directed by Bharathiraja.
Nov. 2002
Recorded the rap version of Jon Jaani Janardhan composed by DJ Khalif. To be released in May ’03 on Sony Music.
Oct. 2002
Jamz – Singapore
Performed alongside Singaporean rappers Triple Noise, in a freestyle rumble at Jamz in Singapore.
THE RECORD carries feature article on BlaaZe’, from the start to current projects with ARR.
July 2002
A R Rahman projects
Lyricist and Rapper on the theme rap song for the Rajnikanth starrer feature film BABA, composed by A R Rahman.
Lyricist and Rapper on a duet with Vasundara Das for the Tamil feature film BOYS, directed by Shankar and composed by A R Rahman.
Recorded the rap in the movie SAATHIYA, directed by Shaad Ali.
March 2002
MTV MEGAMIX - Mikanos and Enigma
Performed at the launch of Mikanos-10000 square feet (929 m²) of dance floor.
Also performed at the launch of Enigma – at the J W Marriott. The new clubs in Mumbai, India. Featured on MTV Megamix.
Nov. 2001
BBC - Ghetto Fabulous
Recorded the first two singles from the new album, composed by Neil Banks, and documented by the BBC for the hip hop world show, Ghetto Fabulous.
May 2001
Performed a hip hop version of Bob Dylan’s Subtarranean Homesick Blues at the tribute concert to Bob Dylan, along with India's finest musicians. Arranged by Jazz Legend, Louis Banks.
Oct. 2000
Opening artist for India’s largest selling Indipop recording artist, Lucky Ali. The concert was held at JVPD in Mumbai, India.
Sept. 2000
Featured on both consecutive albums, 36 FOOT STOMPERS, volumes two and three, by DJ Khalif, released on TIPS MUSIC.
Aug. 2000
Voice – Over for MTV STYLE CHECK Promo. Directed by Adarsh Gupta, Mumbai – India.
July 2000
Voice – Over for uthplanet.com. Composed by Ram Sampath, Mumbai – India.
Jan. 2000
Featured as the Rapper on the album 36 FOOT STOMPERS, volume one, by DJ Khalif and released on TIPS MUSIC.
ddd ‘99
Composed the music for MIRAMAX FILMS Television show, entitled, “Kids Passport to the World,” directed by David F.Price.
Jan. ’99
Appearance on the Tonight Show with Jay Leno.
Oct. ‘98
Zambia Sunday Mail newspaper carries article following the progress of Blaaze since moving to America. Article entitled, Blaaze Fights On...
Aug. ‘98
Performance on Hip-Hop Vibes show recorded and broadcast in California.
Dec. ‘97
Featured and performed on the Rap video Ooh La La. Directed by Ken Ghosh. Music by A R Rahman. Mixed by Salim Merchant.
Sept. ‘96
Opening Artist for the C & C Music Factory Concert held at Madh Islands.
DJ'd on Radio Midday, as a special feature presentation on the legacy of 2Pac.
June ‘96
Opening Artist for the SHAGGY concert held at Rang Bhavan, Bombay, India.
April ‘96
Performed at the Special F X launch held by Wizcraft.
Performed for the TV show, Ek Minute, on Zee TV- India.
March '96
Recorded with Anu Malik for the movie, Baadhal.
Featured on Tabun's Masala Mix album.
Featured on Punjabi album- La Bella
Performed for the soundtrack for the TV show, Top of the Tops.
Feb. ‘96
Recorded the song, East Or West, with Anu Malik, for the movie Judwaa.
Jan. 96
Featured on the soundtrack for the Femina Miss India 1996 pageant.
Opening Artist for Sasha ( UK ).
Dec. ’95
Exclusive New Year's performance on Zee TV- India.
DJ'd on Radio Midday for the Mellow Hour show during the Winter season.
Released from Virgo Music Label.
Oct. ‘95
Show held at the Razz club in Bombay with extensive media and press coverage.
Sept. ‘95
Interview on Goodmorning Bombay- India, with Shenaz Dinshaw.
Aug. ‘95
Performance at the Cinderella niteclub, Kitwe- Zambia.
Performance for the Indian High Commissioner to Zambia at the Pamodzi Hotel, followed by a show at the Independence Day celebrations concert in Lusaka- Zambia. Charity performance at the Nkana Mines Red Cross Fund Raiser held in Kitwe, Zambia.
July ’95
Promotional Dream Queen tour in Zimbabwe.
Chart entry as a future hit prediction on Zimbabwe's Radio Three.
June ‘95
Concert held at Mpelembe Secondary School, Kitwe- Zambia.
May 95
Press release of the album, Dream Queen, by Virgo Music Ltd.
Interview on Doordarshan TV India- UK.
Interview on ZNBC TV - Zambia.
March ‘92
Produced and performed on Zambia's first ever music video, Advice 4 Livin', with the Zambian National Broadcasting Corporation.
Oct. ‘91
Performed for President Chiluba of Zambia during the election campaign. Song entitled, We Wish You Well.
Chennai
Chennai , formerly known as Madras or Madarasapatinam , is the capital city of the Indian state of Tamil Nadu, located on the Coromandel Coast off the Bay of Bengal. Chennai is the fourth most populous metropolitan area and the sixth most populous city in India...
, India
India
India , officially the Republic of India , is a country in South Asia. It is the seventh-largest country by geographical area, the second-most populous country with over 1.2 billion people, and the most populous democracy in the world...
) is a rap artist and a popular playback singer in Indian films
Cinema of India
The cinema of India consists of films produced across India, which includes the cinematic culture of Andhra Pradesh, Assam, Gujarat, Haryana, Jammu and Kashmir, Karnataka, Kerala, Maharashtra, Orissa, Punjab, Tamil Nadu, and West Bengal. Indian films came to be followed throughout South Asia and...
. An Indian by birth, born in Chennai
Chennai
Chennai , formerly known as Madras or Madarasapatinam , is the capital city of the Indian state of Tamil Nadu, located on the Coromandel Coast off the Bay of Bengal. Chennai is the fourth most populous metropolitan area and the sixth most populous city in India...
, he grew up in Zambia
Zambia
Zambia , officially the Republic of Zambia, is a landlocked country in Southern Africa. The neighbouring countries are the Democratic Republic of the Congo to the north, Tanzania to the north-east, Malawi to the east, Mozambique, Zimbabwe, Botswana and Namibia to the south, and Angola to the west....
and later did his education in England
England
England is a country that is part of the United Kingdom. It shares land borders with Scotland to the north and Wales to the west; the Irish Sea is to the north west, the Celtic Sea to the south west, with the North Sea to the east and the English Channel to the south separating it from continental...
and in the US
United States
The United States of America is a federal constitutional republic comprising fifty states and a federal district...
. Currently signed to EMI / Virgin Music.
Life and career
Blaaze was born in ChennaiChennai
Chennai , formerly known as Madras or Madarasapatinam , is the capital city of the Indian state of Tamil Nadu, located on the Coromandel Coast off the Bay of Bengal. Chennai is the fourth most populous metropolitan area and the sixth most populous city in India...
, Tamil Nadu
Tamil Nadu
Tamil Nadu is one of the 28 states of India. Its capital and largest city is Chennai. Tamil Nadu lies in the southernmost part of the Indian Peninsula and is bordered by the union territory of Pondicherry, and the states of Kerala, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh...
, India
India
India , officially the Republic of India , is a country in South Asia. It is the seventh-largest country by geographical area, the second-most populous country with over 1.2 billion people, and the most populous democracy in the world...
, later raised in Kitwe
Kitwe
Kitwe is the second largest city in terms of size and population in Zambia. With a population of 547,700 Kitwe is one of the most developed commercial and industrial areas in the nation, alongside Ndola and Lusaka...
, Zambia
Zambia
Zambia , officially the Republic of Zambia, is a landlocked country in Southern Africa. The neighbouring countries are the Democratic Republic of the Congo to the north, Tanzania to the north-east, Malawi to the east, Mozambique, Zimbabwe, Botswana and Namibia to the south, and Angola to the west....
, educated in England
England
England is a country that is part of the United Kingdom. It shares land borders with Scotland to the north and Wales to the west; the Irish Sea is to the north west, the Celtic Sea to the south west, with the North Sea to the east and the English Channel to the south separating it from continental...
and graduated from Columbia College Hollywood
Columbia College Hollywood
Columbia College Hollywood is a film school located in Tarzana, California, USA. It is approved by the State of California to offer degrees, and is an associate institutional member of the National Association of Schools of Art and Design...
, United States
United States
The United States of America is a federal constitutional republic comprising fifty states and a federal district...
. His father being an architect, his family toured around the entire country with Blaaze starting to perform Breakdance on the sets his father designed, when he was 9. He then moved on to rapping and his music career began with a performance for President Chiluba of Zambia
Zambia
Zambia , officially the Republic of Zambia, is a landlocked country in Southern Africa. The neighbouring countries are the Democratic Republic of the Congo to the north, Tanzania to the north-east, Malawi to the east, Mozambique, Zimbabwe, Botswana and Namibia to the south, and Angola to the west....
during the election campaign in October 1991 at the age of 16 and just 5 months later he produced and performed in Zambia's first ever music video Advice 4 Livin with the Zambian national broadcasting corporation.
Ten years later, in 2002 his entry into the Indian film industry happened, when A. R. Rahman
A. R. Rahman
Allah Rakha Rahman is an Indian composer, singer-songwriter, record producer, musician, and philanthropist. Described as the world's most prominent and prolific film composer by Time, his works are notable for integrating eastern classical music with electronic music sounds, world music genres and...
appointed Blaaze to sing his first song in Tamil cinema
Tamil cinema
Tamil cinema is the film industry based in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India, dedicated to the production of films in the Tamil language. It is based in Chennai's Kodambakkam district, where several South Indian film production companies are headquartered...
, the "Baba Rap" for Rajinikanth's movie Baba
Baba (2002 film)
Baba is a 2002 Tamil fantasy-action film starring and written by Rajinikanth and directed by Suresh Krishna. The film's cast included Manisha Koirala, Vijayakumar, M. N. Nambiar, Goundamani, Sujatha, Karunas, Ashish Vidyarthi, Amrish Puri, Sayaji Shinde and Riyaz Khan...
. Thereafter he performed for several Chennai film industry songs frequently under Rahman's direction on scores for Kangalal Kaidhu Sei
Kangalal Kaidhu Sei
Kangalal Kaidhu Sei is a 2004 Tamil language film, written and directed by Bharathiraja. It stars Vaseegaran in the protagonist's role and marks actress Priyamani's debut in the Tamil film industry. Music was scored by A. R. Rahman, which was the major highlight of this film...
, Boys, Enakku 20 Unakku 18
Enakku 20 Unakku 18
Enakku 20 Unakku 18 is a 2003 Tamil romantic film written and directed by Jyothi Krishna. The film stars Tarun and Trisha Krishnan in the lead roles, while Shriya Saran, Vivek and Manivannan play other pivotal roles. The film was also simultaneously shot and released in Telugu with a slightly...
, New
New (film)
The soundtrack composed by A. R. Rahman and with lyrics by Vaali, was critically well received. In an interview in 2001, Surya earlier stated that Deva had composed ten songs for the film, but he was later replaced by Rahman. Rahman remixed the 1964 hit Tamil song "Thottal Poo Malarum" from the...
, Aayutha Ezhuthu, Anbe Aaruyire
Anbe Aaruyire
Anbe Aaruyire is a Tamil film directed by S.J. Suryah. The film stars himself, Nila, Urvasi, Santhana Bharathy and Santhanam. The film's score and soundtrack are composed by A. R. Rahman...
and Hindi films like Saathiya, Yuva
Yuva
Yuva , originally titled Howrah Bridge is a feature film directed by Indian director Mani Ratnam and released in 2004. Simultaneously made in Hindi and Tamil , the prime objective of the movie was to motivate educated Indian youths to enter politics.The film tells the stories of three young men...
, Rang de Basanti
Rang De Basanti
Rang De Basanti is a 2006 Indian drama film written and directed by Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra. It features an ensemble cast comprising Aamir Khan, Soha Ali Khan, Madhavan, Kunal Kapoor, Siddharth Narayan, Sharman Joshi, Atul Kulkarni and British actress Alice Patten in the lead roles...
and Swades
Swades
Swades: We, the People is a 2004 Indian film written, produced and directed by Ashutosh Gowariker. The film stars Shahrukh Khan and debutante Gayatri Joshi...
. He also worked as a lyricist on Kisna, Tehzeeb
Tehzeeb
Tehzeeb may refer to*Tehzeeb from Pakistan*Tehzeeb from India...
and even on the Mandarin
Standard Mandarin
Standard Chinese or Modern Standard Chinese, also known as Mandarin or Putonghua, is the official language of the People's Republic of China and Republic of China , and is one of the four official languages of Singapore....
film Warriors of Heaven and Earth
Warriors of Heaven and Earth
Warriors of Heaven and Earth is a 2003 Chinese action adventure film directed by He Ping. The film's notable cinematography captures a wide range of landscapes across China's Xinjiang province...
, which all had musical score by Rahman as well. Other music directors from the film industry also started using Blaaze's rap talent in their films like Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy
Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy
Shankar–Ehsaan–Loy are an Indian musical trio consisting of Shankar Mahadevan, Ehsaan Noorani and Loy Mendonsa. Record producers, musicians and multi-instrumentalists, they have composed music for over fifty soundtrack across four languages...
for Bunty Aur Babli
Bunty Aur Babli
Bunty Aur Babli , released in 2005, is an Indian Bollywood film directed by Shaad Ali and starring Amitabh Bachchan, Rani Mukerji and Abhishek Bachchan. It was the first film to feature both Amitabh Bachchan and his son Abhishek Bachchan, and featured guest appearances by Aishwarya Rai and Tania...
, Yuvan Shankar Raja
Yuvan Shankar Raja
Yuvan Shankar Raja is an Indian film score and soundtrack composer, singer and occasional lyricist. He has predominantly scored music for Tamil as well as several Telugu films. His musical career began in 1996, at age 16, as he composed the film score for Aravindhan...
for Manmadhan
Manmadhan
Manmadhan is a 2004 blockbuster Indian Tamil thriller film written and Directed by A.J. Murugan, STR plays the lead title role. The film has Jyothika enacting the lead female role, Goundamani, Sindhu Tolani, Atul Kulkarni and Santhanam playing supporting roles and guest appearances by Mandira...
and Vallavan
Vallavan
Vallavan is a 2006Tamil film written and directed by T. R. Silambarasan, starring himself in the title role along with Nayantara, Reema Sen and Sandhya whilst Santhanam, Premji Amaren, Sathyan and S. Ve. Shekhar play supporting roles. The dialogues are written by noted writer Balakumaran, whilst...
and the likes of Harris Jayaraj
Harris Jayaraj
Harris Jayaraj is an Indian film composer. He has written scores and soundtracks for Tamil, Telugu and Hindi films.- Early life :Harris Jayaraj hails from a pious Christian Nadar family and was born and brought up in Chennai. Harris studied at Krishnaswamy Matric School, Nungambakam. His father,...
, Joshua Sridhar
Joshua Sridhar
Joshua Sridhar is a composer of film scores and soundtracks in Indian cinema. His film debut was Kaadhal, a Tamil film.- Early life :Born in Chennai on March 9, 1974 to Saravanan and Rajalakshmi. Studied at Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan's Rajaji Vidyashram in Chennai from 1980 to 1990...
, Deva
Deva (music director)
Deva is an Indian film composer and singer. He has composed songs and provided background music for Tamil films in a career spanning about 20 years. Many know his gaana songs, written mostly using Madras Tamil. He is known as the "Father of Gaana Genre" in the Tamil film industry.Deva has composed...
inter alia for their films respectively. He has also done the rap lyrics for the title track of the famous Star One show Remix
Remix
A remix is an alternative version of a recorded song, made from an original version. This term is also used for any alterations of media other than song ....
.
His recent songs are "The Boss" and "Style
Style (2007 song)
"Style" is a song from the Tamil film Sivaji: The Boss starring Rajinikanth and Shriya Saran, directed by Shankar. The music was composed by the A. R. Rahman, lyrics were written by newcomer Pa. Vijay and sung by Blaaze, Tanvi, Ravi "Rags" Khote and Suresh Peters...
" for Sivaji: The Boss
Sivaji: The Boss
Sivaji is a 2007 Tamil political thriller film directed by S. Shankar and produced by AVM Productions. Rajinikanth and Shriya Saran played the lead roles, with Suman, Vivek and Raghuvaran playing other significant roles in the film. A. R. Rahman composed the film's soundtrack and background music,...
, "Hey Salaa" for Aegan
Aegan
Aegan is a 2008 Tamil action and comedy film directed and co-written by Raju Sundaram and produced by Ayngaran International based on the 2004 Shahrukh Khan starrer Main Hoon Na...
, "Gangsta Blues" for Slumdog Millionaire
Slumdog Millionaire
Slumdog Millionaire is a 2008 British epic romantic drama adventure film directed by Danny Boyle, written by Simon Beaufoy, and co-directed in India by Loveleen Tandan. It is an adaptation of the novel Q & A by Indian author and diplomat Vikas Swarup...
, "Hosanna" for Vinnaithaandi Varuvaayaa and "Dilli-6" for Delhi-6
Delhi-6
Delhi-6 is a 2009 Hindi-language film directed by Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra and starring Abhishek Bachchan, Sonam Kapoor, Om Puri, Waheeda Rahman, Rishi Kapoor, Atul Kulkarni, Deepak Dobriyal and Divya Dutta. The film is reportedly based on Mehra's growing up years in Chandni Chowk area of Old...
. He also co-wrote the song "Dreams on Fire" from Slumdog Millionaire, as well as being the lyricist on Gangsta Blues, from Slumdog Millionaire.
He has appeared in Ennadi from Vathiyar
Vathiyar
Vathiyar is a Tamil film directed by A. Venkatesh. Arjun and Mallika Kapoor star in this film released on Diwali 2006.-Plot:Dorai is a do-gooder don. But a police force led by ACP Easwara Pandian and his sidekick are after him. However, the poor need him as he is a Good Samaritan running an...
. Blaaze's most recent song for the Chennai film industry is "Hosanna" from Vinnaithaandi Varuvaayaa
With guidance from A. R. Rahman
A. R. Rahman
Allah Rakha Rahman is an Indian composer, singer-songwriter, record producer, musician, and philanthropist. Described as the world's most prominent and prolific film composer by Time, his works are notable for integrating eastern classical music with electronic music sounds, world music genres and...
, BlaaZe wrote the official UN Anthem for Poverty, "Pray For Me Brother
Pray for Me Brother
-Disc Two :#Pray for Me Brother - Original unedited full length video film#Making of the video Feat. A. R. Rahman, Blaaze, Bharatbala-Trivia:...
". His continued perseverance to rap about issue-oriented subjects earned him the nation's vote for MTV Youth Icon of the Year
MTV Youth Icon of the Year
MTV Youth Icon of the year is an annual award presented by MTV India, a TV channel. It was first presented in 2003. It is determined by popular votes.-Recipients:The proud recipients of the awards are:* 2003 : Anil Ambani...
2008.
He has recently rapped in Mohanlal
Mohanlal
Mohanlal Vishwanathan Nair , known mononymously as Mohanlal , is a National Award-winning Indian actor, producer, singer and writer who is well known for his versatile and natural acting in Indian cinema & hence widely known as the Universal Star...
's yet to be released Malayalam movie, Casanova and also in Unnaipol Oruvan Tamil film with Shruthi Haasan, daughter of Kamal Haasan
Kamal Haasan
Kamal Haasan is an Indian film actor, screenwriter and director, considered to be one of the leading method actors of Indian cinema. He is widely acclaimed as an actor and is well known for his versatility in acting...
.
He is the lyricist for two songs on the Vince Vaughn
Vince Vaughn
Vincent Anthony "Vince" Vaughn is an American film actor, screenwriter, producer and comedian. He began acting in the late 1980s, appearing in minor television roles before attaining wider recognition with the 1996 movie Swingers...
motion picture Couples Retreat. "Sajna", co-written with A. R. Rahman
A. R. Rahman
Allah Rakha Rahman is an Indian composer, singer-songwriter, record producer, musician, and philanthropist. Described as the world's most prominent and prolific film composer by Time, his works are notable for integrating eastern classical music with electronic music sounds, world music genres and...
, and, "NaNa
Nana
- People :* Nana , including a list of people and characters with the given name* Nana , including a list of people and characters with the surname* Nana of Iberia , Queen Consort of Caucasian Iberia * Nana - People :* Nana (given name), including a list of people and characters with the given...
", co-written with Vivian Chaix and A. R. Rahman
A. R. Rahman
Allah Rakha Rahman is an Indian composer, singer-songwriter, record producer, musician, and philanthropist. Described as the world's most prominent and prolific film composer by Time, his works are notable for integrating eastern classical music with electronic music sounds, world music genres and...
His band, ZambeZi funK, is ready with their debut album, funKalistiC syllaBleZ.
His non-film work comprises issue oriented music, with messages being spread on the Gujarat Riots, Bilkis Bano, the religion issues in India, banning of corrupt police in the song "Ban The Crooked Police"... Inquilab, and "Stand Up Unite", for the Mumbai terror attacks.
His recent works with A. R. Rahman
A. R. Rahman
Allah Rakha Rahman is an Indian composer, singer-songwriter, record producer, musician, and philanthropist. Described as the world's most prominent and prolific film composer by Time, his works are notable for integrating eastern classical music with electronic music sounds, world music genres and...
is on the Thirukkurral.
His recent performance with A R Rahman at the Jai Ho World Tour in Sydney's Paramatta Park saw a crowd turnout of 75,000 fans to celebrate the Sydney Festival, where he performed the song "Na Na" from Couples Retreat and "Gangsta Blues" from Slumdog Millionaire.
He performed at the BAFTA theatre, London, along with A R Rahman in December 2009, for the launch of Tamil Film Soundtrack, Vinnaithandi Varuvaaya, directed by Gautham Menon.
He has worked as a Music Director for Warner Bros film Saas, Bahu Aur Sensex, with the song on a new age India, called, "What's Up India". The film was directed by Shona Urvashi.
He has also worked as Music Director for the soundtrack of the film Striker.
In September 2011, 'Time For Gandhi' - BlaaZe's debut album - India's first real hip hop 'Protest' album - released on EMI VIRGIN MUSIC
Awards
- Best Male Singer 2010 - song Hosanna - Star Vijay Music Awards
- MTV Youth Icon 2008http://www.mtvyouthicon.in.com/
Chosen out of 8,000 probables, and voted as India's favourite, MTV Networks, announced its 8 winners of the Pepsi MTV Youth Icon Awards in 2008. BlaaZe won the votes for his contribution to socially relevant issues through his music, and his lyrics for the official UN anthem on poverty alleviation, Pray For Me, Brother, composed by A R Rahman.
Quotes
"I'm not too black to be a Zambian/ I’m not too brown to be an Indian/ I gotta piece of each and every colour in my life/ and I pray I stay colourful till the day I die.Words of wisdom, words are true / Yo my mama taught me all of that and more too / sayin' what is to happen, it will happen / Dear son, don't look back, just keep on rappin' / and if it's all good and you're keepin' it true / this whole wide world will recognise you...”
Discography
September 2011Time For Gandhi - BlaaZe's debut album - India's first real hip hop 'Protest' album - released on EMI VIRGIN MUSIC
June 2011
Michael Bolton
Michael Bolton
Michael Bolton is an American singer and songwriter. Bolton originally performed in the hard rock and heavy metal genres from the mid 1970s to the mid 1980s, both on his early solo albums and those recorded as the frontman of the band Blackjack...
- lyricist for the song Sajna, sung by Michael Bolton, composed by A R Rahman, from the album, Gems
May 2011
Star Music Vijay Awards - Best Male Singer - Hosanna
Received the award for the Best Male Singer 2010, along with singer Vijay Prakash, for the song, Hosanna, by A R Rahman.
April 2011
Dheem Tharikita - Composed and sung the theme song for the Chennai Super Kings IPL Cricket season 2011, along with Paul Jacob
March 2011
Jai Ho Live – In Concert – NIT calicut
Live show with Stephen Devassy
Stephen Devassy
Stephen Devassy is an Indian pianist. He composes, sets tunes and arranges music for the Indian music industry.-Early life:...
, Vijay Prakash
Vijay Prakash
Vijay Prakash , is a playback singer from Mysore who moved to Mumbai in 1996. He has sung in Hindi films such as Blue, Yuvvraaj, Swades, Kaal, Lakshya, Matrubhoomi, Tere Naam, Cheeni Kum, Raavan and Force. He has also performed in Kannada, Tamil, Telugu and Malayalam movies...
and Suvi Suresh
Suvi Suresh
Suvi Suresh born as Swetha Suresh on 26 September is an Indian singer. She was a member of the band S5 launched by the channel SS Music. She shot to fame with the song "Kodana Kodi" from Saroja, composed by Yuvan Shankar Raja. She is now member of a second band called Soulsonic.-Biography:Swetha...
at the annual cultural fest of NIT Calicut, Ragam
Jan 2010
BAFTA Theatre – London
He performed live at the BAFTA Theatre London, UK, for the music launch of Tamil movie Vinnai Thandi Varuvaaya.
Paramatta Park – Sydney Music Festival – Australia
He performed live at Paramatta Park Sydney as part of the Sydney Music Festival along with AR Rahman, Hariharan, Sivamani and other stars. Performed the songs from Couples Retreat and Slumdog Millionaire.
Dec 2009
Jai Ho Live – In Concert – Kolkatta
Performed live in concert as part of the Jai Ho tour by AR Rahman, in Kolkatta.
Nov 2009
Casanovva The film title Song
Recorded a song for the Malayalam movie, CASANOVVA. Music By Gopi Sundar.
Deal Or No Deal – Sun TV
Appeared on the Tamil version of the hit show, Deal or no deal special celebrity episode.
Nov 2009
Music Director – Striker the film
Co-wrote and Composed the music along with Paul Jacob for the film Striker, for a song called Aim Lagaa.
Jai Ho Live – In Concert – Hyderabad
Performed live in concert as part of the Jai Ho tour by AR Rahman, in Hyderabad.
Oct 2009
Blue – the film – AR Rahman
Recorded the song for the movie, Blue. Music by AR Rahman.
Jai Ho Live – in concert - Chennai, India
Performed live in concert along with AR Rahman and others.
Sept 2009
Shruti Hassan – Unnai Pol Oruvan
Lyricist / Rapper and performance in the music video for the theme song from Kamal Hassan’s movie, Unnai Pol Oruvan, along with music director Shruti Hassan.
Aug 2009
Jai Hind TV Calicut Concert
Solo Performance - live at the Jai Hind Concert with songs on issues like H1N1 and Inquilab.
Sultan – Rajnikanth – Usher – AR Rahman
Lyricist for the title song in Rajnikanth’s Sultan. Music by AR Rahman. Produced by Ocher Studios.
July 2009
Couples Retreat – Vince Vaughn – AR Rahman
Singer and lyricist for two songs on Vince Vaughn’s film, Couples Retreat
Couples Retreat
Couples Retreat is a 2009 American comedy film written and directed by Peter Billingsley with contributions to the script by Jon Favreau, Vince Vaughn, Dana Fox, Curtis Hanson, and Greg Beeman. Vaughn and Favreau star with Faizon Love, Jason Bateman, Kristin Davis, Kristen Bell, Malin Åkerman and...
. Wrote the songs, Sajna and NaNa, along with AR Rahman. Released on Relativity Music.
June 2009
Sakkarakatti – Telugu dub
Recorded the Telugu version of the song, Taxi Taxi, from the movie Sakkarakatti. Music by AR Rahman.
Live – in concert – Pune – India
Performed live in Pune along with AR Rahman.
May 2009
Vinnaithandi Varuvaaya – Gautham Menon
Recorded the song, Hosanna
Hosanna (song)
"Hosanna" is a Tamil song from the 2010 Tamil film Vinnaithaandi Varuvaayaa composed by Academy Award winner A. R. Rahman, featuring lyrics by Thamarai and Blaaze. The song features vocals by Suzanne, Blaaze and Vijay Prakash, who is the main vocalist. It also features additional vocals by Vivek...
, for the movie Vinnaithandi Varuvaaya. Directed by Gautham Menon. Music by AR Rahman.
Live – in concert – Calicut, India
Performed live in concert in calicut, along with Ar Rahman and a host of stars.
Feb 2009
Delhi – 6
Recorded the title song for the movie, delhi 6, directed by Rakeysh Mehra, music by AR Rahman.
Jan 2008
Inquilab – BlaaZe & Prince Ali
Recorded and co-wrote the theme song, Inquilab, for the Mumbai Terror Attacks victims. Composed by Prince Ali. Video shot by MTV.
Dec 2008
MTV YOUTH ICON 2008 WINNER
Chosen out of 8000 probables, and voted as India's favourite rapper, MTV Networks, announced its 8 winners of the Pepsi MTV Youth Icon Awards in 2008. BlaaZe won the votes for his contribution to socially relevant issues through his music
Dec 2008
Aashirvad Ad – Rajiv Menon
Singer on the ad for Aashirvad. Directed by Rajiv Menon. Composed by Srinivas.
Nov 2008
Slumdog Millionaire
Lyricist and singer on Gangsta Blues from Slumdog Millionaire. Co-lyricist on, Dreams On Fire, from the same movie.
Maruti A – Star launch
Composer, lyricist and performance at the launch of Maruti A Star Car in Delhi, India.
Oct 2008
ESPN Cricket Anthem
Performed on the official ESPN Cricket Anthem, composed by AR Rahman.
Sept 2008
Global One Music
Lyricist and rapper on a song produced by Rob Hoffman and Charlie Dilks of Globalonemusic.com. A collaboration of 25 artists from across the world on One Unique Song. Representing India along with Sonu Niigam.
Aug 2008
Nokia Connections – AR Rahman
Rapper and lyricist on the song ‘Kural’ from the nokia exclusive album Connections, by A R Rahman.
Boys – the movie (Hindi)
Recorded the Hindi version of the hit songs, Dating, and Secret Of Success, from the film, Boys.
June 2008
TV Jingle
Rapper in a TV Jingle composed by Timothy Madhukar.
May 2008
Live - in concert
Performed in Dubai and Chennai. Along with A R Rahman and a host of other Indian stars.
Performed at the STAR Vijay TV Awards, along with scratchmaster Kave.
April 2008
Live – in concert
Performed in Jaipur, India. Along with A R Rahman and a host of other Indian stars.
Yuvvraaj – Subhash Ghai
Recorded two songs and co-wrote the lyrics for the film. Music by AR Rahman.
Mar 2008
Hyderabad Airport Song
Co Lyricist for Hyderabad Airport Song, music by AR Rahman.
Feb 2008
Star Vijay TV – Jodi No.1 – Music Director
Composed and rapped for Star TV show, Jodi No. 1.
Live – in concert Chennai
Performed live in concert with AR Rahman and a host of stars.
Sultan trailer – Ocher Films
Recorded for the trailer of Rajnikanth’s Sultan. Music by AR Rahman.
Jan 2008
Reliance Ad
Recorded a song for the ad, chasing Butterflies, for Reliance. Music by Timothy Madhukar.
Filmfare Awards Live In concert
Performed at the filmfare awards Mumbai, India, along with AR Rahman.
Dec 2007
Live – in concert – Delhi, India
Performed Live in concert in Delhi, along with AR Rahman.
Vidyasagar – Mere Baap Pehle Aap
Recorded a song for the movie, Mere Baap Pehle Aap. Music by Vidyasagar.
Nov 2007
Music Director – Warner Bros – Saas Bahu Aur Sensex
Composed and co-wrote the song, What’s Up India, for the Warner Bros Film, Saas Bahu Aur Sensex, directed by Shona Urvashi.
Oct 2007
Star Vijay Gameshow Title Song
Wrote and rapped for Star Vijay’s TV show, Thirandhidu Sesame.
Sept 2007
McCann Agency – Prasoon Joshi
Ad for Prasoon Joshi. McCann Agency India.
July 2007
Live – in concert USA
Performed in concert at venues in USA along with AR Rahman and a host of stars.
May 2007
Yash Raj films -Jhoom Barabar Jhoom – Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy
Rapper on song, Jhoom, from the movie Jhoom Barabar Jhoom, music by Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy, produced by Yash Raj films.
Sivaji – Background Score
Recorded a background theme for the Rajnikanth film, Sivaji, music composed by AR Rahman.
April 2007
Worldspace A R Radio Ad -Rahman
Recorded the rap in the worldspace ad for A R Rahman.
Jhoom Barabar Jhoom - Shankar – Ehsaan – Loy
Recorded the rap in a song for the title track from the movie, Jhoom Barabhar Jhoom.
Mar 2007
Sivaji – Rajnikanth - A R Rahman
Recorded the song The Boss in Tamil and Telugu for the movie Sivaji. Music by AR Rahman.
Sun TV
Recorded the theme rap for the TV show, Anbudan. Music by Sathish.
Sagar Desai
Recorded the rap in a song from the film Mithya. Music by Sagar Desai.
Feb 2007
Radio One (Chennai)
Recorded the jingle for the theme song for Radio One 94.3 fm
Dec 2006
Mani Rathnam – Guru
Background score rap for the movie Guru. Music by AR Rahman
Oct 2006
Jaane Tu Ya Jaane Na
Recorded a song called Pappu Can’t dance, for Abbas Tyrewalla’s film, Jaane Tu Ya Jaane Na. Music by AR Rahman.
Recorded a song for Varalaaru – Godfather.
Recorded a song for the background score of Sillunu Oru Kadhal.
Sept 2006
Vallavan – the film
Background score rap for the movie, Vallavan. Music by Yuvan Shankar Raja.
Munna – the film
Recorded a rap bit in the Telugu film song, Munna.Music by Harris Jayaraj.
S J Surya / Deva
Recorded the rap bit in the title song, Vyabari.
Aug 2006
Oram Po - Auto
Recorded the title song for the movie, Oram Po, music by GV Prakash.
July 2006
Game – the movie (Telugu)
Recorded three more rap bits in the songs for the movie Game (Hyderabad Mast Mega City, Chinamma and bgm rap ). Music by Joshua Shridhar.
July 2006
Vaathiyar – Music Video
Recorded and featured in the song, Yennadi Muniamma, for the movie Vaathiyar, along with actor Arjun. Music by D Immam.
June 2006
Madurai Veeran / Game
Recorded the songs for the movies, Game in Telugu, and Madurai Veeran (yadhava ) in Tamil. Music by Joshua Shridhar.
May 2006
Chennai Kadhal – the film
Recorded the song, Enjoy, for the movie Chennai Kadhal. Music by Joshua Shridhar.
March 2006
Vallavan – the film
Recorded the song, Loose Penne, for the movie Vallavan. Music by Yuvan Shankar Raja.
Feb 2006
Commonwealth Theme Song
Recorded the rap on the Indian Commonwealth theme song. Music by Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy.
Dec 2005
Warif Telecom
Recorded the rap for Pakistans leading telecom company. Warid. Music by Khalif. Recorded in Mumbai.
A R Rahman
Recorded the idea for the film song, Style, for the movie, Sivaji.
Reliance – Bada Game
Recorded the ad for Reliance, Bada game. Music by Amartya.
Shaan
Recorded the raps for two songs on Shaan’s new album. Music by Ranjit Barot.
Sept 2005
Asha Bhosle
Recorded the Mumbai Theme song along with Asha Bhosle. For release outside India. Music by Shamir Tandon.
Sept 2005
TVS Apache Ad
Recorded the song for the launch of TVS Apache bikes in India, in five different languages. Tamil, Hindi, Kannada, Telugu, Malayalam and English.
July 2005
A R Rahman Tsunami Concert
Performance at Karaikal, South India in association with ‘Save The Children’ and NDTV.
July 2005
Filmfare Awards – South
Performance at the 52nd Filmfare Awards with a special presentation of BnB and Baba Rap.
April 2005
Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy (Yashraj Films)
Bunty Aur Babli – B n B
Rapper & Lyricist for the song B n B from the Yashraj Films production of Bunty aur Babli. Music by Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy and directed by Shaad Ali Sehgal. Music video as well featuring Amitabh Bhachan as Uncle B.
Host on MTV Making of the video with Amitabh Bhachan for the same song.
A R Rahman / Rakeysh Mehra – Rang De Basanti
Lyricist and Rapper for the song, The Rebel, for the movie Rang de Basanti directed by Rakeysh Mehra and music by A R Rahman.
Diet Coke Ad
Singer / Rapper on ad for Diet Coke. Recorded in Mumbai.
Jan 2005
Kisna - Subhash Ghai
Lyricist for the song, My wish comes true, from the movie Kisna. Music by AR Rahman.
Oct. 2004
A R Rahman - Swades
Performed the Dhaba Rap on the bgm of the movie Swades, directed by Oscar Nominee, Ashutosh Gowariker and music by A R Rahman.
Karkka Kasadara – Tamil film
Recorded a duet with Mahalaxmi, for music director Steven, for the movie Karkka Kasadara, directed by R V Udaykumar. Due for release in Jan. 2005.
99.9 fm – (Hindi film)
Composed and Performed in the video for the title song of the film 99.9fm, directed by Sanjay Bhatia.
Oct. 2004
SS MUSIC – Rap Workshop
Conducted a Rap Workshop for contestants of a nationwide voice hunt for SS Music channel and also chose the final upcoming stars as a judge for the final show along with personalities from the film and music industry.
Sept 2004
Coco Lee
Co-lyricist and Rapper on a song called, No Doubt, in collaboration with multi-platinum recording artist Coco Lee, based in Hong Kong, for her first single from the album Exposed. Appearance in the video as well. Releasing on Sony Music in March 2005.
Sept 2004
Star TV – Theme Song
Music by Pritam. Theme song for new Series on Star TV called RemiX and also voice of the channel id STAR ONE – apni tuning jamegi.
99.9 fm – The Movie
Directed by Sanjay Bhatia. ZambeZi FunK compose four Radio Jingles for the movie. Theme Title Song composed and performed by BlaaZe
August 2004
Aap Jaisa Koi (remix by DJ Aqeel)
Rapper on the song, Get the Look, along with Vaishali Sawant, composed by DJ Aqeel. Rap appearance in video directed by Ananth Surapur.
July 2004
Nickolodeon – ZambeZi FunK
Theme song for NICKOLODEON composed and performed by ZambeZi FunK
MTV Promo Theme – ZambeZi FunK.
Aisa Bhi Waisa Bhi – theme song composed and performed by ZambeZi FunK
June 2004
ZambeZi FunK
The group, ZambeZi FunK is formed along with musician and composer, Sagar Desai. Together, work begins on THE ALBUM.
American Blend – the movie
Lyricist and Rapper for a movie set for release in Feb. 2005. A jugalbandhi of Kathak vs Rap. Music by Abu Malik.
April 2004
Yuvan Shankar Raja – Manmadhan
Lyricist and Rapper on the title song from the movie, Manmadhan.
March 2004
Shaan - The Video
Rapper on the video, Mujhe Naa Kehna Nahi Aatha, in collaboration with Shaan, for the second single of the new album Aksar. To be released on Virgin Records. Video directed by Vikram Aditya.
Madhur Bhandarkar – Page 3
Lyricist and Rapper on a song from the movie, Page 3, directed by Madhur Bhandarkar, composed by Shamir Tandon.
Feb 2004
Ken Ghosh
Lyricist and Rapper on a song from the movie, Fidaa, directed by Ken Ghosh.
Jan 2004
Yuva - Mani Rathnam
Recorded the Rap song Dol Dol, for the movies Yuva and Ayudhu Ezhuthu directed by Mani Rathnam and composed by A R Rahman.
A R Rahman – S J Surya
Lyricist and Rapper on the title song of the Tamil movie, NEW, directed by SJ Surya and composed by A R Rahman.
A R Rahman’s Unity Of Light World Tour – 2nd schedule
Performance in Dubai. Continuation of the tour.
Dec 2003
Official Countdown – Singapore
Featured in the Top 100 songs in Singapore’s official countdown with 3 Top 20 songs. DATING ( BlaaZe and Vasundara Das), from the movie Boys at 20. KAMA KAMA ( BlaaZe and Kunal ) from the movie E20 U18 at number 5. SECRET OF SUCCESS ( Lucky Ali, BlaaZe and Vasundara Das ), from the movie Boys at number 3. All songs composed by A R Rahman.
A R Rahman’s Unity Of Light World Tour – 2nd schedule
Continued the second leg of the tour performing in Malaysia to a crowd of 30, 000. Performed the new songs from the Movie BOYS as well as my Solo Raps. Featured live on Malaysia’s Radio Raaga fm.
Nov 2003
Shaan
Recorded as the Lyricist and Rapper on a collaboration for the new album by Indian pop sensation, Shaan. To be released on Virgin Records.
Oct 2003
Tehzeeb - A R Rahman / Khalid Mohammed
Lyricist for the song I Wanna Be Free, for the movie Tehzeeb, directed by Khalid Mohammed and composed by A R Rahman. Sung by Anupama and Mathangi.
Sept 2003
Kisna - A R Rahman / Subhash Ghai
Lyricist for the song Save Me, for the new movie, Kisna, directed by Subhash Ghai and composed by A R Rahman. Sung by Sunitha Sarathy.
Aug 2003
Dynamic Fusion – Delhi
Performed at the dynamic fusion concert in Delhi alongside Talat Aziz, Louis Banks, Shaan, Rakesh Chaurasia and others with a blend of hip hop to ghazal and Hindi pop. Covered by Sony Entertainment Television, to be broadcast as a series of concerts later.
July 2003
A R Rahman – Warriors of Heaven and Earth
Lyricist for the song, Warriors In Peace from the Chinese movie, Warriors of Heaven and Earth, music composed by A R Rahman and song sung by Jolin and Sunitha Sarathy.
June 2003
BOYS – (Acting) Directed by Shankar
Performed as the MTV VJ BlaaZe’ in a cameo role in the Tamil movie BOYS, directed by Shankar and produced by AM Ratnam.
BOYS – (Movie - Voice dubbing)
Voice dubbing for a character called Tarun in Tamil.
May 2003
A R Rahman
Lyricist and Rapper for the song. ‘Secret Of Success,’ from the movie BOYS, directed by Shankar and composed by A R Rahman. Also re-recorded the song DATING from the movie BOYS in Telugu.
Jan - April 2003
A R Rahman’s Unity Of Light World Tour
Hip hoppin all across the globe – India-USA-Canada-Dubai – along with 88 musicians and other artistes. Performing raps on O Humdum and Chori Pe Chori from Saathiya, onstage live jam session with Sivamani and rappin on Ooh La La, the Baba Rap and rappin on Humma Humma.
March 2003
Save the Children Charity Concert-Gateway Of India
Performed at the Gateway Of India along with Sivamani on percussions and Niladri on sitar, in aid of ‘Save The Children.’ Photo article carried in Times Of India.
March 2003
A R Rahman
Lyricist and Rapper on the song ‘Ding-a-Ling’in the movie, E20 U18, for A R Rahman, produced by A M Ratnam.
Lyricist for a song in the movie ‘NEW’, composed by A R Rahman and directed by Surya.
Rapping for Star Movies promo on NRI films – made in India.
Jan 2003
Kedho Tumhe – DJ Aqeel
Recorded the rap on DJ Aqeel’s first single along with the original voice of Kishore Kumar…video to be released in April on Universal Music
Dec. 2002
AR Rahman
Recorded the rap in a song for the Tamil movie, Kangalal Kaithu Sei, directed by Bharathiraja.
Nov. 2002
Recorded the rap version of Jon Jaani Janardhan composed by DJ Khalif. To be released in May ’03 on Sony Music.
Oct. 2002
Jamz – Singapore
Performed alongside Singaporean rappers Triple Noise, in a freestyle rumble at Jamz in Singapore.
THE RECORD carries feature article on BlaaZe’, from the start to current projects with ARR.
July 2002
A R Rahman projects
Lyricist and Rapper on the theme rap song for the Rajnikanth starrer feature film BABA, composed by A R Rahman.
Lyricist and Rapper on a duet with Vasundara Das for the Tamil feature film BOYS, directed by Shankar and composed by A R Rahman.
Recorded the rap in the movie SAATHIYA, directed by Shaad Ali.
March 2002
MTV MEGAMIX - Mikanos and Enigma
Performed at the launch of Mikanos-10000 square feet (929 m²) of dance floor.
Also performed at the launch of Enigma – at the J W Marriott. The new clubs in Mumbai, India. Featured on MTV Megamix.
Nov. 2001
BBC - Ghetto Fabulous
Recorded the first two singles from the new album, composed by Neil Banks, and documented by the BBC for the hip hop world show, Ghetto Fabulous.
May 2001
Performed a hip hop version of Bob Dylan’s Subtarranean Homesick Blues at the tribute concert to Bob Dylan, along with India's finest musicians. Arranged by Jazz Legend, Louis Banks.
Oct. 2000
Opening artist for India’s largest selling Indipop recording artist, Lucky Ali. The concert was held at JVPD in Mumbai, India.
Sept. 2000
Featured on both consecutive albums, 36 FOOT STOMPERS, volumes two and three, by DJ Khalif, released on TIPS MUSIC.
Aug. 2000
Voice – Over for MTV STYLE CHECK Promo. Directed by Adarsh Gupta, Mumbai – India.
July 2000
Voice – Over for uthplanet.com. Composed by Ram Sampath, Mumbai – India.
Jan. 2000
Featured as the Rapper on the album 36 FOOT STOMPERS, volume one, by DJ Khalif and released on TIPS MUSIC.
ddd ‘99
Composed the music for MIRAMAX FILMS Television show, entitled, “Kids Passport to the World,” directed by David F.Price.
Jan. ’99
Appearance on the Tonight Show with Jay Leno.
Oct. ‘98
Zambia Sunday Mail newspaper carries article following the progress of Blaaze since moving to America. Article entitled, Blaaze Fights On...
Aug. ‘98
Performance on Hip-Hop Vibes show recorded and broadcast in California.
Dec. ‘97
Featured and performed on the Rap video Ooh La La. Directed by Ken Ghosh. Music by A R Rahman. Mixed by Salim Merchant.
Sept. ‘96
Opening Artist for the C & C Music Factory Concert held at Madh Islands.
DJ'd on Radio Midday, as a special feature presentation on the legacy of 2Pac.
June ‘96
Opening Artist for the SHAGGY concert held at Rang Bhavan, Bombay, India.
April ‘96
Performed at the Special F X launch held by Wizcraft.
Performed for the TV show, Ek Minute, on Zee TV- India.
March '96
Recorded with Anu Malik for the movie, Baadhal.
Featured on Tabun's Masala Mix album.
Featured on Punjabi album- La Bella
Performed for the soundtrack for the TV show, Top of the Tops.
Feb. ‘96
Recorded the song, East Or West, with Anu Malik, for the movie Judwaa.
Jan. 96
Featured on the soundtrack for the Femina Miss India 1996 pageant.
Opening Artist for Sasha ( UK ).
Dec. ’95
Exclusive New Year's performance on Zee TV- India.
DJ'd on Radio Midday for the Mellow Hour show during the Winter season.
Released from Virgo Music Label.
Oct. ‘95
Show held at the Razz club in Bombay with extensive media and press coverage.
Sept. ‘95
Interview on Goodmorning Bombay- India, with Shenaz Dinshaw.
Aug. ‘95
Performance at the Cinderella niteclub, Kitwe- Zambia.
Performance for the Indian High Commissioner to Zambia at the Pamodzi Hotel, followed by a show at the Independence Day celebrations concert in Lusaka- Zambia. Charity performance at the Nkana Mines Red Cross Fund Raiser held in Kitwe, Zambia.
July ’95
Promotional Dream Queen tour in Zimbabwe.
Chart entry as a future hit prediction on Zimbabwe's Radio Three.
June ‘95
Concert held at Mpelembe Secondary School, Kitwe- Zambia.
May 95
Press release of the album, Dream Queen, by Virgo Music Ltd.
Interview on Doordarshan TV India- UK.
Interview on ZNBC TV - Zambia.
March ‘92
Produced and performed on Zambia's first ever music video, Advice 4 Livin', with the Zambian National Broadcasting Corporation.
Oct. ‘91
Performed for President Chiluba of Zambia during the election campaign. Song entitled, We Wish You Well.