Interview with Mujtaba Aziz Naza, Singer & Music Composer

An exclusive interview with Mujtaba Aziz Naza, Singer & Music Composer

In the enchanting world of music, where melodies weave stories and emotions find expression, Mujtaba Aziz Naza stands as a luminary figure. Renowned as a versatile singer and accomplished music composer, Naza has carved a niche for himself in the dynamic landscape of the Indian music industry.

With a voice that resonates with passion and a talent for crafting compositions that transcend genres, he has become a beloved artist among music enthusiasts. In this exclusive interview, we delve into the life and artistry of Mujtaba Aziz Naza, exploring the inspirations that fuel his creativity and the journey that has led him to become a notable figure in the realm of music.

Can you tell us a bit about yourself and your journey into the world of music?

Mujtaba Aziz Naza: “My journey in music wasn’t straightforward, overshadowed by the legacy of my father, Aziz Naza. It felt odd to seek work, knowing the respect his name commanded. The industry, often unkind and manipulative, didn’t spare me either. If my father had been alive, perhaps my path would have been easier. Despite his fame, it was a challenging road for me.

I was only five when my father passed away, leading to a move to Kanpur due to family disputes. My maternal grandparents raised me. My mother, deeply affected by my father’s passing, was encouraged to divert her focus to music. I fondly remember the music sessions at our home, where I’d sit and absorb everything, fascinated by the sounds and rhythms.

I was so attached to music, partly because of my dad. He had made me a custom harmonium when I was two, and I’d try playing it, the tabla, and his piano. My mother shared these stories with me. After his death, I delved deeper into music, dreaming of filling his shoes one day as a great Qawwali and Sufi artist.

Around the age of 6 or 7, I started exploring composition. My father was an accomplished composer, and I wanted to follow in his footsteps. 

A significant moment in my childhood was when my mother used music to help me connect with my father’s memory. She would encourage me to compose by reflecting on my feelings for him. This unique approach led me to compose my first song at the age of eight. 

My journey then took a turn when my mother had a severe accident, resulting in a coma and a fractured leg. This upheaval forced me to leave school and perform small shows in Kanpur.

An opportunity came when my father’s friend invited me to perform at a major event in Madhya Pradesh. This led to more shows in Mumbai, and eventually, at 12, I signed my first album. After its launch, my mother decided it was time for me to move to Mumbai and pursue my career.

In Mumbai, the struggle continued. Initially, my grandmother was with me, but eventually, my mother joined. We settled in my father’s old office, which became our home. Throughout my 20-year career, I’ve worked with well-known producers, directors, and music labels, always maintaining a learning mindset. I’ve contributed to notable movies like ‘Bajirao Mastani,’ ‘Padmaavat,’ ‘Indu Sarkar,’ and as a composer for ‘Sniff’ and ‘Haemolymph’.

The journey has been filled with misguidance and heartaches, but also with guidance and support. I’m grateful to those who have stood by me. It’s been a journey filled with music and challenges, and while it’s hard to sum up in a few words, I’ve shared the essence of my story with you.”

Who are your musical influences, and how have they shaped your style?

Mujtaba Aziz Naza: “My foremost influence has always been my father. The way he transformed Qawwali music is nothing short of unbelievable. Besides him, my exposure to different music genres has been diverse. My uncle’s love for Western music introduced me to icons like Michael Jackson, Elton John, Jennifer Lopez, and Madonna. This influenced my tastes, alongside the classical music my parents were fond of.

Classical greats like Bade Ghulam Ali Khan, Aamir Khan, and other legendary artists have deeply inspired me. Composers like Naushad, Khayyam, Madan Mohan, O.P. Nayyar, S.D. Burman, and later on, R.D. Burman and Bappi Lahiri, each had a unique style that taught me about composition, song arrangement, and sound utilization. Even AR Rahman and Ilaiyaraaja from South India added to my understanding of music.

My base in Qawwali and Sufi music merged with these influences. On stage, I play the keyboard and other instruments, offering an unique experience to the audience. This blend sets me apart – like when I play the bass line, it creates a different vibe.

All these elements have shaped my style, creating a beautiful amalgamation that resonates with people. I continue to experiment and evolve, hoping to take this journey further.”

Could you walk us through your creative process when composing music or writing lyrics?

Mujtaba Aziz Naza: “My creative process varies. Sometimes I compose music based on existing lyrics, or write lyrics for a composition. Both processes are equally beautiful and challenging. When I work on movies, like ‘Haemolymph’ with its dark theme, I adapt my music to fit the mood. In this movie, there was a Sufi Qawwali, which I composed while deeply immersed in the subject.

In my opinion, truly feeling the emotions of the lyrics or the composition is crucial. Whether it’s a sad song or a romantic one, the depth of emotion I feel translates into the music I create. For instance, when working on Sufi songs, sometimes I get so involved that I find myself moved to tears, feeling a deep connection with the divine.

It’s about being completely immersed in the process, putting your heart and soul into it. This is how beautiful music is born. I often write my own lyrics, influenced by my mother’s poetry and my father’s legacy in Shayari. Writing and composing music is not just a job for me; it’s a passion that I deeply enjoy.”

How would you describe your signature musical style, and what sets your work apart from others in the industry?

Mujtaba Aziz Naza: “I identify myself as a Sufi artist, dedicated to promoting Sufi music. It’s the base of my musical identity, and I believe it’s what draws people to my work. My music style is distinct; I have my own unique pattern that I believe sets me apart.

In my performances, I focus on delivering a sense of peace and tranquility to the audience, without resorting to excessive high notes or loudness. I believe in staying true to my vocal range, ensuring that my voice is not strained and the music remains pleasant to the ears.

I’ve observed a trend in the new generation, where singing in a high range is often mistaken for excellence. I don’t agree with this approach. True music lies in feeling and understanding the emotions behind a song, whether it’s love, pain, or joy.

One aspect that differentiates me is my commitment to delivering heartfelt performances. I pour my soul into my stage presentations, perhaps more intensely than many other Sufi artists. While it’s not typical to praise oneself, I must acknowledge that I play several major instruments during performances, often switching between five to six instruments in one night.

This versatility not only enhances my live shows but also allows me to create rich, varied arrangements in my studio work.

These elements, combined with my deep involvement and emotional connection to the music, make my style unique. They distinguish me in the world of Sufi music and beyond.”

Is there a collaboration or performance that stands out as a memorable moment in your career?

Mujtaba Aziz Naza: “There have been numerous memorable moments in my career, marked by unforgettable events and collaborations. For instance, I’ve experienced the exhilaration of receiving standing ovations countless times. There have been outdoor events where, despite the rain, the audience stayed, drenched, yet completely lost in the music, singing and swaying along with the performance.

Those moments are incredibly special to me, showcasing the power of music to connect and move people, regardless of the circumstances.

Recently, I collaborated with a Flamenco dancer for a Sufi music performance. This fusion was something new and it was incredibly well-received. We performed a few shows in Mumbai, and the love and appreciation we received from the audience were overwhelming. It’s heartening to see how open people are to new forms of expression and how they embrace these creative endeavors.

I’m looking forward to taking this collaboration further and exploring more such innovative performances. These moments are not just highlights of my career but also stepping stones for future projects. My hope and aspiration are that such moments continue to unfold, marking my journey with more such memorable experiences.”

What do you find to be the most challenging aspect of being a singer and music composer in the current music industry?

Mujtaba Aziz Naza: “The biggest challenge in today’s music industry is unpredictability. It’s hard to determine what the audience will appreciate. Music’s value seems to have diminished compared to earlier times. There was an era when people would spend a lot on cassettes and CDs, valuing music greatly. Today, that appreciation has waned.

Another challenge is the common belief that anyone can compose music or sing. This mindset has led to a dilution of quality. The music we hear today is often the result of this attitude. Even the decision-makers at music labels seem to lack the discernment needed to promote real talent and music, leading to commercialization that sidelines true artistic expression.

It’s unfortunate, but I’ve observed that much of today’s music is derived from traditional, Sufi, and folk compositions, often used thoughtlessly. If I create a piece, anyone can cover or use it, and music labels might release it under a different name. This practice is not only disrespectful but also harmful to the creators.

As a singer and composer, the challenges are manifold. But if you know your craft, the challenge becomes about staying true to your art while navigating these industry dynamics. It’s disheartening to see good music getting overshadowed by commercial interests.

I always believe in promoting quality music. Often, we see old songs being remixed because they have a lasting appeal that new music lacks. Quality music should be promoted, and talented artists should be given opportunities.

We frequently encounter situations where our best compositions are overlooked in favor of less deserving ones. Therefore, promoting good music is essential for the industry’s growth. My hope is that genuine music reaches the audience and is celebrated for its quality.”

Do you have a favorite musical instrument that you enjoy incorporating into your compositions?

Mujtaba Aziz Naza: “Indeed, I have several instruments that I favor while composing music. When I work on albums or songs, the piano is my instrument of choice. I find that composing on the piano gives me a wide range of expression and helps me capture the essence of the song. I also have a deep affinity for the guitar. The versatility of the guitar allows me to experiment and bring different textures to my compositions.

However, when it comes to Sufi and Qawwali compositions, I predominantly use the harmonium. The harmonium holds a traditional and special place in Sufi music. Its distinct sound and the way it resonates with the soulful melodies of Sufi and Qawwali music make it my preferred instrument for these genres.

The harmonium allows me to delve deep into the emotional and spiritual aspects of the music, enhancing the overall feel of the composition. Besides these, the piano and guitar remain my go-to instruments for most of my compositions. Their versatility complements my style and enhances the creative process, enabling me to explore a broad spectrum of musical ideas.”

What advice would you give to aspiring singers and music composers who are just starting their journey?

Mujtaba Aziz Naza: “There are two crucial aspects to consider as an aspiring artist in the music industry. Firstly, you must decide whether you want to satisfy yourself or others. Many enter the industry aiming to make a name for themselves and earn money, but often, in trying to please others, they lose their own satisfaction and creativity.

For singers, my advice is to focus on your unique voice and style. Singing is a gift, not just a skill that can be learned. It requires a certain natural flair. If your voice has that special quality, that ‘kashish’, then pursue singing. Work on enhancing your own voice rather than imitating others, as this can lead to losing your individuality.

For composers, strive to create good music. If you have the talent, focus on creating beautiful compositions and bringing them to the audience. The current state of the music industry might be challenging, with a lot of subpar music being produced. However, it’s essential to maintain the quality of your work.

With social media and other platforms, you now have the opportunity to reach a wider audience directly. If you have the talent and guts, people will naturally gravitate towards your work. Believe in yourself, work hard, and keep moving forward. My best wishes go out to all the new artists embarking on this journey. Stay true to your art, and success will follow.”

Has your dedication and hard work been celebrated with awards or accolades?

Mujtaba Aziz Naza: “Over the years, I have been fortunate to receive numerous awards recognizing my contributions to music. These accolades are a testament to the hard work and dedication I have put into my craft. However, the awards I received for the film ‘Padmaavat’ in 2019 hold a special place in my career.

I was honored with three Mirchi Music Awards for this project. These included ‘Raag Inspired Song of the Year,’ ‘Singer of the Year,’ and ‘Album of the Year.’ Receiving these awards was not just a personal achievement but also a moment of great pride. They signify the industry’s recognition of my efforts to bring traditional and classical influences into mainstream music.

These awards, especially for a project as significant as ‘Padmaavat,’ which demanded a deep understanding of traditional music and its fusion with contemporary styles, have been particularly rewarding. They serve as a reminder of the impact my music has had and continue to inspire me to push the boundaries of my musical expression. Thank you.”

As we bring our conversation with Mujtaba Aziz Naza to a close, it becomes evident that his journey in the world of music is a tapestry woven with dedication, passion, and a profound love for the art form. Naza’s contributions as a singer and music composer have not only left an indelible mark on the industry but also touched the hearts of countless listeners.

Through the highs and lows of his career, Naza’s commitment to his craft remains unwavering, and his ability to seamlessly blend tradition with innovation reflects a rare artistic sensibility. As we bid farewell to this insightful encounter, we are left with a deeper appreciation for the artistry of Mujtaba Aziz Naza, a maestro whose music continues to reverberate in the hearts of those who cherish the magic of melody.

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