“Sonu Nigam: Versatile artist excelling in diverse languages, Padma Shri awardee, recognized globally for unparalleled musical brilliance, captivating hearts worldwide.”
Born : 30 July 1973 (age 50)
Place : Faridabad, Haryana, India
Occupations :Playback singer music director actor dubbing artist
Years active : 1993–present
Spouse : Madhurima Nigam (m. 2002)
Children : 1
Relatives
Sister : Teesha Nigam
Honours
Padma Shri (2022)
Genres
Filmi Classical Pop Ghazals Rock Devotional
About
Sonu Nigam, born on July 30, 1973, is an accomplished Indian playback singer, music director, dubbing artist, and actor. Widely regarded as one of the most outstanding and successful playback singers in Hindi and Kannada cinema, he was honored with the Padma Shri in 2022 by the Government of India, a prestigious recognition for his remarkable contributions to the arts.
Nigam’s vocal prowess extends across various languages, primarily Hindi and Kannada, while also showcasing his talent in Bengali, Marathi, Telugu, Tamil, Odia, Bhojpuri, Gujarati, Malayalam, Nepali, Tulu, Chhattisgarhi, Meitei, and more within the Indian musical landscape. Alongside his prolific playback singing career, he has ventured into non-film albums and made appearances in Hindi cinema. Often hailed as the “Modern Rafi,” this title pays homage to his emulation of his musical inspiration, Mohammad Rafi.
Early and personal life
Born on July 30, 1973, in Faridabad, Sonu Nigam is a versatile singer rooted in Mohammed Rafi’s legacy. He began performing at four, honing his craft under Ustad Ghulam Mustafa Khan. His diverse repertoire spans Hindi, Odia, Bengali, and more, across genres like romantic, devotional, and patriotic.
Nigam, married to Madhurima Mishra, has ventured into pop, devotional, and even Buddhist albums, showcasing his global appeal through performances across continents. Renowned for his tours and distinct musical contributions, he remains a stalwart in Indian music.
1992–1999: Career beginnings
In 1992, Sonu Nigam initiated his career with “Hum To Chhaila Ban Gaye” featured in DD1’s TV series “Talash.” His debut film track, “O Aasman Wale,” surfaced in the movie “Aaja Meri Jaan” (1993). Additionally, he rendered the title track, later dubbed by SP Balasubramaniam. Nigam marked his entry into the music industry with his inaugural album, “Rafi Ki Yaadein,” also in 1992.
After this, he sung in the movies Muqabla (1993), Veerta (1993), Meherbaan (1993), Shabnam (1993), Kasam Teri Kasam (1993), Aag (1994), Cheetah (1994), Khuddar (1994), Hulchul (1995), Stuntman (1994), Police Lockup (1995), Sauda (1995), Ramjaane (1995), Aazmayish (1995), Naajayaz (1995), Khiladiyon Ka Khiladi (1996), Papa Kahte Hain (1996), Gaddaar (1995), Dand Nayak (1998), Jaanwar (1999), Barsaat (1995), Aur Pyar Ho Gaya (1997), Badal (1999), Dulhe Raja (1998), Jeet (1996), Hero No. 1 (1997), Soldier (1998), Devta (1998), Keemat (1998), Himmatvar (1996), Hindustan Ki Kasam (1999), Shera (1999), Sooryavansham (1999), Hogi Pyaar Ki Jeet (1999) and many more.
2000 s: Career peak
My Soniya” from “Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham…,” and “Panchi Nadiya Pawan Ke” from “Refugee,” all featuring Alka Yagnik. Notable tracks include “Tanhayee” from “Dil Chahta Hai,” “Tu Fiza Hai” from “Fiza,” and “Kal Ho Naa Ho” from the movie of the same name, earning him awards and acclaim.
From 2004, his repertoire expanded with chartbusters like “Main Hoon Na,” “Do Pal” from “Veer-Zaara,” “Chup Chup Ke” from “Bunty Aur Babli,” “Pyar Ki Ek Kahani” and “Koi Tumsa Nahin” from “Krrish.” His collaborations with Shreya Ghoshal, Sunidhi Chauhan, and others in films like “Lucky: No Time for Love,” “Fanaa,” and “Jodhaa Akbar” continued his success.
Nigam’s diverse contributions span albums honoring Mohammed Rafi, concerts worldwide, tributes to icons like Michael Jackson, and performances at prestigious events like Harvard University’s inauguration. Tours with renowned artists and collaborations marked his career’s trajectory, affirming his versatility and musical brilliance.
2010–present: Post career peak, multiple concerts and several English Collaborations
During 2010-2021, Sonu Nigam continued delivering hits such as “Chori Kiya Re Jiya” from “Dabangg,” impressively singing the title track of “Tees Maar Khan” in 54 voices. He reached vocal milestones like hitting the highest note without falsetto in “Aye Janani” for “Kandahar.” Awards like the Global Indian Music Academy and BIG Star Entertainment Awards recognized his exceptional contributions.
His collaborations extended globally, teaming up with Britney Spears, DJ Avicii, and Jermaine Jackson. Renowned for his diverse repertoire, he faced industry challenges, opposing unfair contracts and advocating for singers’ rights. Hits like “Abhi Mujh Mein Kahin” from “Agneepath,” collaborations with Ajay-Atul, and contributions to movies like “PK,” “Brothers,” and “Raees” highlighted his prolific career.
Beyond Bollywood, he engaged in social causes through songs like “Tik Tik Plastic” and “Mumbai River Anthem.” Sonu’s versatility shone through international collaborations like “Underwater” with DJ KSHMR and indie pop hits like “Aye Jahaan Aasmaan.”
Notably, his live concert tour “Rafi Kishore aur Main” showcased classics by Kishore Kumar and Mohammad Rafi, captivating audiences with his renditions. Embracing innovation, Sonu ventured into the NFT space, marking a pioneering moment as the first Indian singer to launch an NFT series featuring his music and personal journey.
