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It is important to play music that will be accepted by an international audience but which retains an essential Indian quality.
Interviewed by The Guardian for his London Concert. April 2010.
In India we love melodies in the background of scenes. In the west there is a sense that soundtracks should not distract, and hence there is a greater preference for ambient sounds and plain chords.
Interviewed by The Guardian, April 2010
What appealed to me about Islam was that this is a religion based on unconditional love and a belief in one god and one love. I was especially drawn to Sufism which has a rich musical tradition. Why is the Azan [the call to prayer] in tune? Why is it musical? Islam has been hijacked by extremists, and what drives me in my own work is to create music that will bring people together.
Interviewed by The Guardian, April 2010
If music wakes you up, makes you think, heals you…then, I guess the music is working.
Jai Ho Concert Tour, 2010
If a music artist wants to blossom into a full-pledged person, it’s not enough if he knows classical music; nor is it enough if he’s well-versed in raagas and techniques. Instead, he should be a knowledgeable person interested in life and philosophy. In his personal life there should be, at least in some corner of his heart, a tinge of lingering sorrow.
Citation pending.
I want to go beyond the restrictions of language, religion and caste, and music is the only thing that allows me to do that.
Citation pending.
Attempts to create a synthesis of the music of West and the East were made in the past but did not last because that form wasn’t institutionalised. I want to do that (through KM Music Conservatory).
A.R. Rahman (Jan 7, 2010 News Center)
Be original and find your inner voice. The rest will follow.
A.R. Rahman (Press Trust of India, Oct 13, 2009)
My journey as a musician started at the age of nine and I see music as a way to connect to spirituality and embrace it. Music touches people and breaks down barriers, creating harmony in troubled times. This has always been my philosophy.
A.R. Rahman (July 17, 2009, The Statesman)
The burden of expectations has always been upon me, whether at the regional, national or international front. For me, everybody are important.
Times of India, May 2009
All my life I’ve had a choice between hate and love. I chose love, and I’m here.
The Academy Awards, 2009
