He is just 28-years-old but has been successful in mak-ing a mark in the film industry through his catchy voice. Having stepped into the industry only a few years back, Benny Dayal has been successful in establishing himself as one of the best playback singers among the younger generation who have stepped into the entertainment industry. Born and brought up in Abu Dhabi, Benny completed his graduation in Chennai and worked as a HR professional before getting his first break ‘Pappu Can’t Dance…’ for the movie ‘Jaane Tu Ya Jaane Na’ composed by A.R. Rahman. Since then Benny has never looked back. He is one of the versatile singers in the present era who can sing in 5 languages. Within a short span of time, Benny has been able to impress a number of music composers including A.R. Rahman, Haris Jayaraj, James Vasanthan, Salim Sulaiman, Vishal Shekar, Pritham, Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy and others. He was also honoured with R.D. Burman Award for New Music Talent at the 54th Filmfare awards and also New musical sensation award at the 2009 Stardust Awards.
Star of Mysore caught up with Benny when he was in Mysore recently for a concert organised by Royal Stag at the Windflower Resort and Spa.
By S.N. Venkatnag Sobers
Star of Mysore (SOM): How did you start your career in the music industry?
Benny Dayal: It was a shock for me when I got a call from A.R. Rahman studio to record a song for one of his compositions. The ‘Pappu can’t dance…’ became a huge hit, all thanks to my guru A.R. Rahman for giving me a break. Before entering the industry I used to sing along with my band S5 which still continues to do so. But I would give all credit to Rahman Sir for introducing me into the industry.
SOM: You have been able to work with a number of music composers in a short time. How would see your growth?
Benny: I would say I have been very lucky to have worked with a number of music directors. I have just started my career and there is lot more to achieve.
SOM: You have lent your voice for songs in 5 different languages? Which is the language that you are very comfortable with?
Benny: Again it is just luck which has given me an opportunity to work with music directors from South and North India. For me, languages have never been an issue. I am ready to sing in any language.
SOM: Having worked with so many music directors, whom do you consider to be most comfortable to work with?
Benny: There is nothing like that. Like I said earlier, A.R. Rahman is my guru but for me Salim-Sulaiman have been great. I consider them as my brothers. It is because of them I moved to Mumbai and met many music composers.
SOM: How has 2012 treated you?
Benny: Last year has been amazing. All the songs which I have sung have become hits. ‘Daaru Desi’ from ‘Cocktail’, ‘Ek Main Aur Ekk Tu’ from ‘Ek Main Aur Ekk Tu’ have been great hits. This apart, I also got an opportunity to record a song for Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy for ‘Vishwaroopam’ which turned out be a great experience. I will be starting 2013 with the song ‘Lat Lag Gayi’ from the movie ‘Race 2’.
SOM: You have also sung a few Kannada songs. Would you like to sing more for sandalwood?
Benny: Yes, I have a sung a few songs for movies such as ‘Gaana Bajaana’ and ‘Love Guru’. But I have not been approached by any of the music composers from Sandalwood. Given an opportunity, I would definitely work for Sandalwood.
SOM: What is your opinion about the reality shows. They say the singers in reality shows have to wait for a long time and struggle hard to get a break in the industry?
Benny: No doubt reality shows are bringing in fresh talents in the industry. But they need to wait for the right break and just keep practicing music till the time comes.
source: http://www.StarofMysore.com /Home> Feature Articles / January 17th, 2013