Having sung in 16 Indian languages, playback, jazz and pop singer Usha Uthup, known for her deep voice which was not the ‘typical Indian female voice’ in the 70s, has had quite the illustrious career. She began in the late 60s on-stage in a nightclub in Madras (now Chennai) India, singing cover songs of almost anything that would be termed a classic, jazzed up and peppy versions of old Bollywood songs & English tracks. Such was her success that nightclub owners and film-music directors from across the country lined up to sign her.
Fortunately Uthup’s stage presence has not changed in the last 5 decades, she could easily give anyone of the current generation a serious run for their money for how captivating she is on stage. Donned in her trademark ‘Kanjeevaram’ saree, Jasmine flowers in her hair, the large bindi on her forehead, ornate jewelry, Uthup’s concerts with her abundance of charm, music and insight are certainly worth every cent. While on one hand Uthup sets the crowd rolling in laughter with her anecdotes, on the other hand she comes up with beautifully profound and humble observations to a lot of what she has seen in her travels.
Uthup has received many accolades in her career, from the Padma Shri (4 highest civilian award presented by the Indian Government) to several film and music awards. She has also been actively involved in numerous charities and fund-raising campaigns.
Follow Usha Uthup:
http://www.ushauthup.com/
