New Delhi: The South Indian International Movie Awards (SIIMA) 2024 ceremony scheduled for September 14 and 15 is set to be a night of glitz and glamour, as the South Indian film industry will gather for the best achievements in South Indian cinema this year. Among the many accolades to be handed out, the immensely talented South Indian playback singer Vijay Yesudas has been nominated for the award of Best Playback Singer (Male) Tamil for his soulful rendition of the song “Pathala Pathala” from the blockbuster film “Vikram,” directed by Lokesh Kangaraj.
The song, composed by Anirudh Ravichander, has been voted immensely due to its catchy tune and Vijay’s powerful vocals, which has resulted in “Pathala Pathala” topping the music charts and the hearts and minds of audiophiles across the nation as well.
Vijay Yesudas, the son of legendary playback singer K.J. Yesudas, has carved out his own niche in the music industry. With a career spanning over two decades, Vijay has lent his voice to numerous chart-topping hits in Tamil, Malayalam, Telegu, and Kannada films. His deep, melodious voice and his ability to infuse emotion into every note have made him a favorite among music directors and fans alike.
Vijay is no stranger to awards. Over the years, he has won several prestigious accolades, including the Kerala State Film Award for Best Playback Singer (2007, 2013, 2014) and the Tamil Nadu State Film Award (2006, 2011). His previous SIIMA wins include Best Playback Singer for the song “Sandakari Neethan” (2013) and Best Male Playback Singer (Malayalam) for the song “Poomaram” (2015).
He has also won several Filmfare Awards South, including Best Playback Singer for the song “Malare” (2012, Malayalam), Best Playback Singer for the song “Malare” (2016, Malayalam), and Best Playback Singer for the song “Pootmuthole” (2019, Malayalam).
Vijay’s distinct style and versatile singing abilities have been lauded by audiences and critics alike time and again. Known for his rich, melodious voice, he has successfully transcended language barriers by singing in Tamil, Malayalam, Telegu, and Kannada films. One of his standout qualities is his ability to convey deep emotions through his powerful and soulful voice.
His vocal range allows him to effortlessly handle a wide variety of musical genres, from classical to semi-classical to contemporary and folk music. This versatility makes him a favourite among music directors who seek a singer capable of delivering both emotional depth and technical precision. His performances in songs like “Malare” from the film “Premam” and “Oru Mezhuthiriyude” from “Picket 43” are perfect examples of his emotional depth and vocal expression.
Growing up as the son of K.J. Yesudas, who is also referred to as the “Gana Gandharvan” (Celestial Singer), Vijay was deeply influenced by the sounds of his father’s practice sessions and recordings. This early exposure played a crucial role in developing his musical ear and understanding of various musical forms.
Under the elder Yesudas’s guidance, Vijay understood that mastery in music required hard work, practice, and a deep respect for the art form. He also picked up a solid education in Carnatic music, which became the bedrock of Vijay’s current versatility, allowing him to effortlessly switch between various genres while maintaining a high level of technical accuracy.
Vijay’s commitment to maintaining high standards of musical excellence reflects his deep respect for classical traditions. His meticulous approach to singing, emphasis on emotional expression, and technical precision resonate deeply with the principles of classical music.
He received his first big break in the year 2000, when he sang the song “Sollamal Thottu Chellum Thendral” for the Tamil film “Millenium Stars.” The song, composed by the renowned music director Vidyasagar, became an instant hit and showcased Vijay’s remarkable talent and potential. The success of the song not only established Vijay Yesudas as a promising new talent but also opened doors for him in the South Indian film industry.
Some of his major works are as follows: in Tamil, “Sandakari Neethan” in the film “Irandaam Ulagam” (2013), “En Iniya Pon Nilavae” in the film “Moodar Koodam” (2013), and “Pathala Pathala” for the film “Vikram” (2022).
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In Malayalam, “Kolakkuzhal Vili Ketto” in the film “Nivedyam” (2007), “Oru Mezhuthiriyude” in the film “Picket 43” (2014), and “Malare” in the film “Premam” (2015).
Vijay Yesudas’s career is a testament to his exceptional talent and dedication to music. Through his notable works and unwavering commitment to excellence, Vijay continues to be a guiding light for aspiring musicians, encouraging them to uphold the rich traditions of classical music while embracing modern influences.
Ahead of the upcoming SIIMA awards scheduled for September, Vijay Yesudas remains one of the most deserving candidates for the Best Playback Singer (Male) in the Tamil Category.
