TO Live and Small World Music present Bollywood supergroup Shankar–Ehsaan–Loy at Meridian Hall on Saturday, July 20, 2024, 7pm .Tickets, starting at $50, are available online at tolive.com, by phone at 416-366-7723 and 1-800-708-6752, and in person at the Meridian Hall Box Office.
Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy, arguably India’s most successful and popular musical trio, became a nationwide sensation after they composed the chartbusters of the 2001 movie Dil Chahta Hai. They have composed music for over 50 soundtracks in five languages: Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, Marathi, and English.
They have won many awards along the way, including a National Film Award, an IIFA Award, and a Filmfare Award. Aside from their success as a trio, each of the members has a very successful solo career in the music industry.
Before breaking into the film industry, they performed at various stage shows, mostly rock, jazz, pop, and blues. Mission Kashmir was their big break in the film industry in 2000. The film Dil Chahta Hai was a watershed moment in their careers. Following the success of Dil Chahta Hai, the trio ventured into other industries, composing for regional language films while continuing to deliver outstanding compositions in Hindi films.
Following the popular practice in Bollywood music where individuals with varied musical backgrounds collaborate together, Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy are the first Bollywood trio of music composers. Exploiting the unique strength of its members— the Indian classical music of Shankar Mahadevan, the rock and acoustic pop of Ehsaan Noorani, and the electronica-fusion of Loy Mendonsa—the trio has created successful music that is both traditional and progressive.
Aside from Bollywood music, the trio formed the band Instant Karma in 2002, and released redone versions of R. D. Burman and other composers across two albums.
They’ve also written music for jingles, corporate signature tunes for brands like Reliance and Aircel, and public awareness campaigns. Zangoora, the first Bollywood musical, was written by the troika in 2010.
They even composed the official anthem for the 2011 ICC Cricket World Cup, titled “De Ghuma Ke,” and in 2008, they performed at the Live Earth India Concert to help light homes with solar energy alongside other celebrities such as Jon Bon Jovi. In 2010, they embarked on a worldwide tour called Inspiration: Aman Ki Aasha, which began in New Jersey, United States.
Presenting excerpts from an Exclusive Interview with Shankar Mahadevan ji
Usha: Can you please tell us about any special elements planned for this tour?
Shankar Mahadevan: Well, this is a different concept. It’s not a Shankar Mahadevan show; it’s a Shankar Ehsaan Loy show. Primarily, it’s a Hindi show because we are Bollywood composers and have created music for the last 30 years. All our hits will be performed, and since Toronto has a significant South Indian population, I will include a sprinkling of a few South Indian numbers as well.
Usha: Do you have any special message for youngsters attending the concert?
Shankar Mahadevan: It’s always a pleasure meeting them. We look forward to seeing them at a high-energy concert. Put on your dancing shoes and come ready to sing, clap, dance, and enjoy the atmosphere. We love when the audience participates and knows every song. Come with energy and be ready to party with us.
Usha: How do you think music has evolved over time?
Shankar Mahadevan: Everything changes—the way we function, use technology, and our attention spans. The only constant in life is change. Music also evolves, but good melody and lyrics always pass the test of time.
Usha: Can you share a special moment or interaction with your fans?
Shankar Mahadevan: The last show in Toronto was unforgettable. It was a seven-hour show with the Super Singer team, and the audience waited from afternoon till night. Their enthusiasm was incredible.
Usha: Do you have a personal favorite genre of music?
Shankar Mahadevan: It’s difficult to choose. I’ve done many forms of music, including a Grammy-winning fusion album with Zakir Hussein. I love Bollywood music and have sung for heroes in Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, Malayalam, and Marathi films. I enjoy every form of music as long as it is melodious.
Usha: Beyond music, what do you look forward to in Toronto?
Shankar Mahadevan: I have dear friends in Toronto, Ganesh and Shanti, who are like family. We always enjoy our visits to the Niagara Falls, and dining at the local restaurants. We love the cold weather because we don’t get that in Mumbai:)
You know it’s a fantastic vibe! I really love it. I love the combination of North Indian and South Indian, which is really strong in Toronto.
Usha: What are your upcoming collaborations or projects?
Shankar Mahadevan: We have many projects, including films, international projects, and tours. I’m also expanding my music academy, Shankar Mahadevan Academy, which is available online in 90 countries. Anyone can learn music at www.ShankarMahadevanAcademy.com.
Usha: Any final message for the audience?
Shankar Mahadevan: This is a Hindi show, but I will include a few South Indian numbers for my fans. I’m really looking forward to meeting everyone. Come with high energy and be ready to party with us.
Usha: Thank you, sir. We look forward to seeing you.
🎶✨ So Torontonians, Get Ready to Dance! 🎤✨
Join us for Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy’s spectacular ‘Kal Ho Naa Ho’ Tour! 🌟🎸 From Bollywood classics to South Indian hits, this is a musical journey you won’t want to miss. Put on your dancing shoes and party with us! 🕺💃 🎵💫
