Singer Aamir Shaikh thrilled with praise from music legends

Singer Aamir Shaikh, who has released a new single "Astaghfirullah Rabbi" is flattered with the excellent response he has received for the song and his overall work from the music veterans of the country.

"When I made Pyarelalji (from composer duo Laxmikant-Pyarelal) listen to "Astaghfirullah Rabbi", he said that he had already brought the song home and that he would peacefully listen to it every night. I was shocked that Pyarelalji was listening to my song, which is the biggest compliment for me," said Shaikh.

This talented singer had initially started out as a sound engineer where his singing talents were kept hidden. He handled the mixing and recording of several popular albums such as "Namastey London", and "Bodyguard" composed by Himesh Reshammiya, "Wanted" composed by Sajid-Wajid and films for Ismail Darbar. But despite the beginning, he says that he was fond of singing right from childhood and always wanted to become a singer.

Apart from Pyarelal, other musical stars Udit Narayan, and Bappi Lahiri have sung praises of Shaikh's talents.

"My confidence level rises when Pyarelalji, Himeshji, Wajidbhai appreciate my singing. I got to learn from them during the course, which definitely reflects in my singing. This encouragement makes me realize that I haven't strayed off track but am on the right track. This also motivates to carry on the work and improve further," he said.

Having started out with romantic and sad numbers, Shaikh feels he is in a way experimenting with his vocals in "Astaghfirullah Rabbi", which is Arabic for seeking forgiveness from God.

"This song despite having a Sufiyana touch was also commercial. I was initially skeptical about my own talents after hearing the composition but then I put in all my heart and soul into the song. Whoever has listened to the song has immensely praised my singing, music and lyrics," said Shaikh who has also sung cover versions of numerous popular hit songs as well as a special tribute video to late former president A.P.J. Abdul Kalam and even songs in Punjabi.