Remix is both good and bad: Lyricist Kaushal Kishore

I was six when I started writing poetry. So my journey as a writer started from there. When I was in sixth standard, I wrote my first song and my family was immensely supportive. But people in my social circle didn’t know the value of being a song writer, so I was often judged and that was tough. I feel difficulties are important in any journey, because they give you the right kind of push to strive for better. Today, people in my hometown are proud of me, and that’s a great feeling. When I came to Mumbai, I didn’t know anyone. But my dream and confidence kept me going. I’m glad I kept meeting the right people who supported me. Today, I’m grateful that I’m getting to work with various artistes. When my song Muskurayega India released last year and the Prime Minister praised it, it was overwhelming and I felt that I’ve made a mark as a lyricist and now I only need to get better at what I do.

Remix is both good and bad. Good because a lot of people are getting work and artistes behind the original tracks are getting royalty, which is great. I believe if an old song can be altered in a way that it sounds good and doesn’t take away the original essence, then it’s fine. But if we harm the track and play with sound in such a way that it loses its original essence, that’s wrong. That’s something I personally don’t enjoy. While the trend of remixes is around, original music will continue to thrive.

I don’t agree with that. We are a hugely talented industry and we’ve been making some great songs. Last year saw a few songs that earned 100 millions views on all streaming sites. I feel proud to be associated with such an industry. Of course, the 70s saw some really beautiful songs, but I feel good and bad tracks have been made in all the decades.