Raja & Rahman
Approach to Music Production
Rahman's agile working style allowed him to experiment, explore, and push boundaries. He invested ample time and attention to detail in his projects, resulting in a relatively smaller number of releases. Breaking away from traditional way of working, Rahman embraced the night culture. It was during the quiet hours of the night that his creative genius soared & with the help of technology Rahman was able to work remotely with any artist across the globe. He challenged the norms and opened doors to endless possibilities. This also led into delay in completing the music work impacting the movie releases.
In contrast,Ilayaraja's unwavering focus and disciplined work ethic enabled him to achieve unparalleled efficiency in composing music. With an average of more than two movies per month,(~1000 movies in 40 years) he showcased his ability to create captivating melodies that perfectly complemented the narratives on screen. His meticulous approach to composing, combined with his deep understanding of various musical genres, allowed him to consistently deliver exceptional scores without compromising on quality.
Technology & Innovations
A.R. Rahman harnessed the power of technology to his advantage, revolutionizing the music industry. He embraced innovative production techniques and incorporated a wide range of digital instruments and soundscapes in his compositions. Rahman's keen understanding of technology enabled him to experiment with unique sounds, textures, and arrangements, resulting in a distinctive musical style that captivated listeners. His proficiency in utilizing advanced recording and mixing techniques allowed him to create rich and immersive musical experiences. By embracing technology as a tool for artistic expression, Rahman pushed the boundaries of music production
Ilaiyaraaja, on the other hand, followed a more conventional approach, but his mastery of classical music and seamless integration of traditional elements set a benchmark for film music in South India.
Experimentation and Collaborations
A.R. Rahman's albums stand out for their innovative use of multiple singers, blending diverse voices and styles into harmonious compositions. His collaborations with renowned artists from around the world have added a global flavor to his music. Ilaiyaraaja, although primarily known for his solo compositions, was not averse to collaboration. His emphasis on nurturing a guru-shishya relationship allowed him to mentor and guide musicians, ensuring the continuation of rich musical traditions.
Background Score and Narrative Enhancement
Both Rahman and Ilaiyaraaja possess an innate ability to capture the essence of storytelling through their background scores. Rahman's music has an ethereal quality, transcending boundaries and resonating deeply with the audience's emotions. Ilayaraja's background scores possessed a unique ability to resonate deeply with audiences. Whether it was a moment of intense suspense, heart-wrenching sorrow, or soaring triumph, his compositions effortlessly heightened the emotional impact of each scene. The delicate balance between melody, harmony, and orchestration in Ilayaraja's scores brought out the raw emotions, intensifying the cinematic experience for viewers.
Leadership Style and Impact
Ilaiyaraaja's more authoritative and dictatorial style of leadership, which was prevalent during his time, was accepted by the industry and contributed to his prolific career. Where as ARR's servant leadership style, coupled with his business acumen, has made a significant impact on the music industry. He seamlessly blends artistic integrity with commercial success, setting new standards for musicians and composers.
To conclude, it is evident how different styles can be employed to achieve successful project outcomes in the music industry. Ilaiyaraaja's conventional approach, rooted in the guru-shishya relationship, highlighted the importance of traditional knowledge and craftsmanship. On the other hand, A.R. Rahman's disruptive and agile approach emphasized experimentation, technological advancements, and collaboration with multiple artists.