Srinivas, a name synonymous with musical brilliance, has established himself as one of the most respected playback singers in the Indian music industry. Known for his soulful voice and wide-ranging versatility, Srinivas has garnered a large fanbase that transcends generations. With a career spanning over three decades, he has delivered timeless hits and collaborated with some of the biggest names in the music industry. This article delves into the life of Srinivas, detailing his early beginnings, rise to fame, personal details, and his impact on the world of music.
Personal Details
| Full Name | Srinivas Krishnan |
| Date of Birth | November 7, 1959 |
| Age | 64 (as of 2024) |
| Birthplace | Ambasamudram, Tamil Nadu, India |
| Nationality | Indian |
| Occupation | Playback Singer, Composer |
| Genres | Classical, Playback, Pop |
| Years Active | 1988 – Present |
| Spouse | Hema Srinivas |
| Children | 2 Daughters |
| Awards | National Film Award, Filmfare Award, Tamil Nadu State Award |
Srinivas Biography
Born on November 7, 1959, in Ambasamudram, Tamil Nadu, Srinivas Krishnan, known mononymously as Srinivas, was always drawn to music. His early exposure to Carnatic music and a strong familial influence ignited his passion for singing. Even as a young boy, Srinivas was fascinated by the classical compositions of greats like M.S. Subbulakshmi and Semmangudi Srinivasa Iyer. His initial aspirations, however, were more academic, as he pursued a career in engineering.
Despite his educational background, the pull of music was undeniable. Srinivas moved to Chennai, where he began learning classical music more rigorously under the tutelage of renowned gurus. His journey from being a music enthusiast to one of the most revered playback singers is both inspiring and noteworthy.
Age and Early Life
Srinivas, now 64 years old, has a life story that resonates with perseverance and passion. Growing up in a middle-class family, his upbringing was filled with discipline and devotion to Indian culture. The youngest of three siblings, Srinivas spent his childhood in the serene town of Ambasamudram, where his love for classical music took root.
He moved to Chennai for his higher studies and earned a degree in chemical engineering. But the love for music persisted throughout his academic years. Even during his time as an engineer, Srinivas continued his rigorous training in Carnatic music. His early performances were primarily in the classical realm, but fate had a different plan.
Career Breakthrough
The breakthrough moment in Srinivas’ career came when legendary composer A.R. Rahman noticed his talent. The 1990s were a pivotal time for Indian music, and Rahman’s unique sound needed voices that could match his creative vision. Srinivas, with his ability to blend classical nuances into mainstream melodies, was a perfect fit.
In 1994, Rahman offered him a chance to sing “Sannaale,” marking Srinivas’ debut in playback singing. This collaboration opened doors for Srinivas in the Tamil and Telugu music industries, and he soon became a household name. His ability to deliver emotion-packed performances in a variety of languages made him stand out among his peers.
Over the years, Srinivas has worked with several top composers, including Ilaiyaraaja, Harris Jayaraj, and M.M. Keeravani. Some of his most famous songs include “Ennavale” from Kadhalan, “Minsaara Poove” from Padayappa, and “Aarariraro” from Raavanan. His melodious voice, known for its deep emotional connect, has earned him multiple awards and accolades.
Notable Collaborations
Srinivas’ career has been marked by collaborations with some of the greatest names in the Indian music industry. His association with A.R. Rahman is perhaps the most noteworthy, with Srinivas lending his voice to some of the composer’s most iconic works. The combination of Rahman’s innovative compositions and Srinivas’ evocative vocals created magic that left an indelible mark on Indian cinema.
In addition to Rahman, Srinivas has worked extensively with Ilaiyaraaja, another legend in the South Indian music industry. Songs like “Nila Kaigiradhu” and “Kadhal Sadugudu” have solidified his position as a versatile playback singer capable of tackling a wide range of emotions and genres.
Srinivas has also sung in multiple languages, including Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, and Hindi, further cementing his status as a pan-Indian artist. His rendition of classic songs and modern tunes alike continues to resonate with audiences across the country.
Awards and Recognition
Throughout his illustrious career, Srinivas has been the recipient of numerous awards and honors. He has won the National Film Award, Filmfare Award, and multiple Tamil Nadu State Awards for his contributions to the music industry. In addition, he has received numerous accolades from various music academies and cultural institutions for his dedication to promoting classical music in contemporary contexts.
What sets Srinivas apart is not just his talent but his humility. He has always remained grounded, attributing his success to his teachers and the composers who believed in his talent. His willingness to learn, adapt, and grow as an artist is a key reason for his sustained success over the decades.
Later Life and Continuing Influence
At 64 years old, Srinivas continues to be an active figure in the music world. He has expanded his role beyond just playback singing to composing and mentoring young musicians. His knowledge of classical music, combined with his understanding of modern music trends, allows him to bridge the gap between traditional and contemporary styles.
In recent years, Srinivas has ventured into independent music production, releasing albums that reflect his personal musical journey. His latest work, which focuses on the fusion of classical ragas with modern pop elements, has garnered critical acclaim.
Srinivas remains committed to music education, frequently conducting workshops and masterclasses for aspiring musicians. His dedication to keeping classical music alive in an evolving industry is truly commendable.
Conclusion
Srinivas is a shining example of how dedication, passion, and talent can come together to create an extraordinary career. From his humble beginnings in Tamil Nadu to becoming one of the most respected names in Indian playback singing, his journey is nothing short of inspiring. His contributions to Indian cinema, especially his collaborations with the likes of A.R. Rahman, will forever be remembered as milestones in the evolution of the industry.
