Bollywood songs, more formally known as Hindi film songs or filmi songs, are songs featured in Bollywood films. Derived from the song-and-dance routines common in Indian films, Bollywood songs, along with dance, are a characteristic motif of Hindi cinema which gives it enduring popular appeal, cultural value and context.
When we think of Bollywood music, our minds are often flooded with vivid images of festive dances, dazzling colors, and stories of love, passion, and over-the-top drama. Bollywood music is not just an accompaniment to movie scenes; it is a language in its own right that reflects the richness of Indian culture, intertwining different musical traditions and styles.
Linguistically, Bollywood songs tend to use a colloquial dialect of Hindi, or Hindustani, mutually intelligible to both Hindi and Urdu speakers, while modern Bollywood songs also increasingly incorporate elements of Hinglish. Urdu poetry has had a particularly strong impact on Bollywood songs, where the lyrics draw heavily from Urdu poetry and the ghazal tradition.
In addition, Punjabi is also occasionally used for Bollywood songs. Bollywood music covers a variety of styles and covers almost all styles of formal music which would include, Rock, Pop, Classical and Traditional. Most of the older films' songs were sung in the Traditional Ragas and contributed heavily to its longevity.
Today the styles have been westernized to cater to the younger audiences, but the traditional elements still remain. Instrumentation-wise, Bollywood music still contain majority of the traditional classical instruments like Sitar, Santoor, Tabla etc yet the versatility of these instruments also translates very well into the western styles of music. Fusion music between western and eastern instruments already occurred through the 1950's and was met with great appreciation.
Bollywood music is a fascinating amalgamation of genres. We find Indian classical influences, such as ragas, mixed with popular rhythms, folk music and even elements of Western pop music.
This fusion makes each song unique, capable of evoking deep emotions and taking us on a journey through the history and daily life of India. Artists and composers like AR Rahman, Lata Mangeshkar and Kishore Kumar have been able to capture the essence of this diversity, blending modern sounds with traditional roots.
Bollywood songs are intrinsic to cinematic storytelling. Each musical number is often a key plot point, used to express sentiment and bring viewers closer to the characters. Be it a romantic ballad, an energetic party number or a nostalgic tune, music is always a key element, capable of tugging at the heartstrings.
Often, the songs are accompanied by breathtaking choreography, creating spectacular sketches that become an integral part of the viewing experience. It is no wonder that Bollywood songs have gained popularity not only in India, but across the world, conquering the international audience as well.
Every Bollywood song tells a story. Through the lyrics, universal themes such as love, sacrifice, friendship and the joy of life can be explored. Composers are skilled storytellers who manage to convey deep emotions through unforgettable melodies. Music videos are also often full of symbolism and narrative, allowing the viewer to fully immerse themselves in the story.
These songs provide a great introduction to the world of Bollywood music, allowing you to appreciate the variety and richness of this genre.
Bollywood music is a sweeping journey through Indian culture, inspiring emotions and telling stories in unique ways. Whether you’re a dance lover, a history buff, or just curious to explore new sounds, your Bollywood playlist is a great place to start.
Let yourself be carried away by the engaging melodies and rhythms, and discover how music can break down cultural barriers and unite people in a festive sonic embrace!
A look back at 5 songs that marked the year 2024…
Big Dawgs, Hanumankind
This one, impossible to have missed. Hanumankind, real name Sooraj Cherukat, now has a place at the next edition of the Coachella Festival thanks to the success of Big Dawgs. By shaking up the codes of Indian hip-hop and addressing societal themes, Hanumankind has become a key figure in today's music.
Aasa Kooda, Sai Abhyankkar
A true phenomenon, Sai Abhyankkar's (son of singer Tippu) debut single, Katchi Sera, was an immediate success. But it was with “Aasa Kooda” that his music crossed the Indian borders. At only 20 years old, Sai offers a very eclectic musical style that has caught the eye of contemporary Tamil cinema. Indeed, he will make his debut as a composer with Benz, directed by none other than Lokesh Kanagaraj.
Nu Delhi, Bloodywood
Created in 2016, the metal band Bloodywood is the big surprise on social networks in this year 2024. Composed of Karan Katiyar and Jayant Bhadula, Bloodywood thinks outside the box and continues to use its music full of energy and tradition to address sensitive and political subjects. With Nu Delhi, the band proves that after almost 10 years of career, it has mastered a perfect fusion between aggressive metal riffs and traditional Indian instruments.
Taambdi Chaamdi, Shreyas x Krates
At 28, Shreyas Sagvekar is a true jack-of-all-trades in music. Hailing from Pune, he grew up immersed in Marathi musical traditions, which is reflected in his compositions. A multilingual rapper, prolific producer and seasoned battle rapper, he never fails to surprise. With "Taambdi Chaamdi" in collaboration with DJ Krates, he creates a fusion between Western electronic rhythms and traditional Indian melodies. Shreyas is definitely someone to watch closely.
Dhvani Bhanushali – Thank You God
Now a household name in Bollywood, Dhvani is the youngest pop artist to have reached a billion views on YouTube very early in her career with the song Vaaste. Each new release is always a hit for the young woman with the crystal-clear voice, but it is Thank You God that opens the doors to a wider audience for her. Especially social media users who advocate self-love through the catchy chorus of this song.
Here is the best bollywood love songs ever:
1. Barsaat (1949)
Barsaat is the musical story of Shankar-Jaikishan. They were assisting Ram Ganguly, then the music director of the film. But the latter was fired by Raj Kapoor, director and star of the film due to artistic differences. He hired Shankar who insisted on making Jaikishan his partner. With Barsaat, an essential musical duo was born. With Barsaat, they are especially at the top of their art with songs that are as melodious as they are poignant.
Our favorite songs from Barsaat's album:
1. Chhod Gaye Balam Mujhe by Mukesh and Lata Mangeshkar
2. Barsaat Mein Hum Mile by Lata Mangeshkar
3. Hawa Mein Udta Jaaye Mera Laal by Lata Mangeshkar
2. Aradhana (1969)
Among these soundtracks that have left their mark on Hindi cinema, there is the music of Aradhana . Composed by SD Burman, it is probably one of his finest albums. Packed with songs that have become essential, the Aradhana album is now a reference in film music. One of its most popular songs, "Roop Tera Mastana", earned its performer Kishore Kumar the Filmfare Award for Best Music.
Our favorite songs from the Aradhana album:
1. Mere Sapno Ki Rani by Kishore Kumar
2. Roop Tera Mastana by Kishore Kumar
3. Kora Kagaz Tha Ye Man Mera by Kishore Kumar and Lata Mangeshkar
3. Pakeezah (1972)
In addition to being the last film of the great tragedienne Meena Kumari, Pakeezah is one of the richest albums in Hindi cinema. Originally composed by Ghulam Mohammed, the musician's death allowed Naushad Ali to complete the film's album, which was absolutely sublime. Songs like "Chalte Chalte" and "Inhi Logon Ne" have thus been inscribed in the memories thanks to the very particular timbre of the great Lata Mangeshkar.
Our favorite songs from the Pakeezah album:
1. Chalte Chalte by Lata Mangeshkar
2. Chalo Dildar Chalo by Mohammad Rafi and Lata Mangeshkar
3. Nazariya Ki Mari by Rajkumari
4. Aashiqui (1990)
Considered one of the best albums of the 1990s, Aashiqui has indeed made a mark for its music composed by the duo Nadeem-Shravan. Winner of the Filmfare Awards for Best Original Score, Best Male Playback Singer and Best Female Playback Singer, Aashiqui has become an inspiration for music lovers across the subcontinent. So much so that a remake was initiated in 2013, Aashiqui 2, which also won the Best Music and Best Male Playback awards. It's safe to say that history has repeated itself...
Our favourite tracks from the Aashiqui album:
1. Nazar Ke Samne Jigar Ke Paas by Kumar Sanu and Anuradha Paudwal
2. Ab Tere Bin by Kumar Sanu
3. Mera Dil Tere Liye by Udit Narayan and Anuradha Paudwal
5. Roja (1992)
Roja is the soundtrack that revealed the great AR Rahman on the Indian music scene. After his long collaboration with Ilaiyaraaja, filmmaker Mani Ratnam wanted to launch a novice musician with this Tamil film event. Released in 1992, Roja won the National Award for Best Music and the South Filmfare Award in the same category. Above all, the album was cited by Time magazine among the 10 most successful soundtracks of all time.
Our favorite tracks from the Roja album:
1. Chinna Chinna Aasai by Minmini and AR Rahman
2. Pudhu Vellai Mazhai by Unni Menon and Sujatha Mohan
3. Rukumani Rukumani by SP Balasubrahmanyam and KS Chithra
6. Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge (1995)
If this production by Aditya Chopra has become cult, the same goes for its music. Indeed, the compositions of the duo Jatin-Lalit are unbeatable gems. The title "Mehndi Laga Ke Rakhna" will also earn Udit Narayan the Filmfare Award for Best Singer.
Our favorite tracks from Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge's album:
1. Tujhe Dekha Toh Yeh Jaana Sanam by Kumar Sanu and Lata Mangeshkar
2. Ho Gaya Hai Tujhko Toh Pyaar Sajna by Lata Mangeshkar and Udit Narayan
3. Mehndi Laga Ke Rakhna by Udit Narayan and Lata Mangeshkar
7. Moonu (2012)
Aishwaryaa Rajinikanth's Tamil phenomenon film reveals a young composer who has since become a star in his field: Anirudh Ravichander. With the global hit "Why This Kolaveri Di", the team sheds light on an album of rare quality. The aforementioned title will also earn its performer Dhanush, also the hero of the film, the South Filmfare Award for Best Singer.
Our favorite tracks from Moonu's album:
1. Why This Kolaveri Di by Dhanush
2. Idhazhin Oram by Ajeem and Anirudh Ravichander
3. Poo Nee Poo by Mohit Chauhan and Anirudh Ravichander
8. Thattathin Marayathu (2012)
Shaan Rahman is probably one of the most brilliant Malayalam composers of his generation. With the album Thattathin Marayathu , he treats us to romantic and old-fashioned melodies to serve this magnificent love story, with Nivin Pauly and Isha Talwar.
Our favorite tracks from the album Thattathin Marayathu:
1. Anuraagathin Velayil by Vineeth Sreenivasan
2. Anuraagam by Rahul Subrahmanian
3. Namosthuthe by Arun Alat
9. Aashiqui 2 (2013)
This is probably one of the most iconic film scores of the last decade. Having rocked a generation of fans with its deep romantic undertones, the album has become a staple for Indian music lovers to this day.
Our favourite tracks from Aashiqui 2:
1. Arijit Singh's Tum Hi Ho
2. Shreya Ghoshal's Sun Raha Hai
3. Arijit Singh and Palak Muchhal's Chahun Main Ya Naa
10. Race Gurram (2014)
SS Thaman has established himself as one of the most sought-after composers in the Telugu industry. With Race Gurram , he has delivered energetic and infectiously lively songs. All this is enhanced by the charisma of Allu Arjun, the star actor of the film.
Our favourite tracks from the Race Gurram album:
1. Sweety by Siddharth Mahadevan and Rabbit Mac
2. Boochade Boochade by Shreya Ghoshal, Rahul Nambiar and Naveen Madhav
3. Race Gurram by Usha Uthup, MM Manasi and MM Monisha
