The Gift of Elegance in ‘Thenisai Thendral’ Deva’s Music

If there were an aural equivalent of elegance found in highly readable prose, it would undoubtedly be the music of Deva, affectionately known as ‘Thenisai Thendral.’ His work stands out for its accessibility, charm, and the unique ability to not only please listeners but also to immerse them in the emotions conveyed through sound.

Background

As I reflect on his many remarkable compositions, I am reminded of the haunting opening lines of “Un udhattora sivappe…” from the film Panchalankurichi (1996), beautifully rendered by Hariharan and Anuradha Sriram. The distinct beauty of the line that Hariharan hums before the percussion begins captivates listeners, evoking the sensation of experiencing music in an intimate setting. The simplicity of the melody is inviting, making it highly hummable and resonant with fans.

Creating songs that appeal to a broad audience is one of Deva’s trademarks. His compositions not only encompass the Gaana genre, which he is often associated with, but also feature enchanting melodies, relatable sentiments, and lively introduction songs dedicated to iconic actors, particularly Rajinikanth. Indeed, Deva’s music, especially the iconic background score from Annamalai (1992), became instrumental in solidifying Rajinikanth’s superstardom during the 1990s.

Key Developments

Deva’s exploration with leading voices in the industry is particularly noteworthy. In the song “Konja naal poru thalaiva” from the film Aasai (1995), which beautifully integrates the classic Ananda Bhairavi raga, he provides a fresh platform for Hariharan’s extraordinary vocal talents. Following a monumental introduction to Tamil cinema through A. R. Rahman’s “Roja” in 1992, and amid the growing popularity of tracks like “Uyire… uyire” from Bombay (1995), Deva discovered new dimensions in this remarkable singer’s potential. His seamless melodies often kept embellishments minimal, thereby enhancing the emotional connection for listeners and expanding Hariharan’s artistic range in Tamil film music.

The 1990s marked an era of unprecedented musical richness for Tamil film fans, with luminaries such as Ilaiyaraaja, A. R. Rahman, Vidyasagar, and S. A. Rajkumar providing diverse musical landscapes. Within this context, Deva entered the fray, his creations radiating a distinctive mark of elegance, setting him apart amidst a plethora of musical styles.

Context

Achieving elegance in music is no small feat, requiring a deep understanding of one’s strengths, an ability to synthesize musical ideas, and the discernment to produce accessible, relatable, and appealing compositions. This is particularly true in the realm of film music, where the music must complement storytelling by invoking clear emotional experiences. Deva understood this from the outset, creating a musical language that resonated with audiences.

A striking characteristic of Deva’s Gaana songs is how his earthy voice encapsulates the conversational tone of the lyrics. In a recently resurfaced interview, he recounted a poignant moment with the legendary S.P. Balasubrahmanyam, who sought insight into how Deva perfected his use of slang. Deva reminisced, “I told him, you should have lived there, lived that life,” illustrating how his background greatly influenced his songwriting. Raised in a working-class environment with a father who was a postman, Deva lived a modest life, devoid of a radio until the age of 18, which shaped his musical outlook.

Statements and Reactions

Deva’s versatility is evident in his discography – for every lively “Kavalaipadade sagodara” from Kadhal Kottai (1996), there is a romantic melody like “Kaadala Kaadala” from Avvai Shanmugi (1996). The duet “Engengey engengey” from Nerukku Ner (1997) showcases a stunning collaboration between Asha Bhosle and Hariharan, a coming together that transcends decades of music history. Within a few years, the duo would enthrall Tamil film music fans yet again in Ilaiyaraaja’s “Nee partha parvaikkoru nandi” from Hey Ram (2000).

Deva’s ascent in the industry was not instantaneous. Coming from humble beginnings, he navigated numerous challenges fueled by an unwavering passion for music. In an emotional television clip that has since circulated widely, he reflects on his long journey: “I had to wait 40 years for a break in the industry. As a youngster, I would close the door and imagine the keyboard, harmonium, tabla, dholak around me… If anyone had seen me through the window, they would have thought I am mad.” His story illustrates resilience and the pursuit of dreams that inspire many within the artistic community.

The warmth and grace Deva exhibited are remembered fondly by countless artists, who recall his generosity in fostering collaborative environments. Deva often expressed his gratitude towards SPB, sharing tearful sentiments about the singer’s contributions to his work. “He sang about 1,300 songs for me. It was his voice that gave life to my music; without his voice, my music would have been nothing,” he once declared.

Conclusion

A late bloomer by his own admission, Deva approached music composition with an open mind, retaining a team spirit that endeared him to his peers, regardless of their experience levels. His willingness to acknowledge and share credit fosters an atmosphere of collaboration in the industry while simultaneously reflecting the authentic elegance that characterizes his music. Deva’s compositions are not merely art to be admired; they are music that envelops you in a warm embrace, leaving a lasting legacy that continues to resonate deeply with audiences.