A journey spanning about three decades, during which he has soothed our hearts with an eclectic bouquet of songs on love, longing, friendship, farewell and loss. The tremendous craze for Krishnakumar Kunnath – whom we have known as KK – was evident even on Tuesday evening outside Nazrul Mancha in south Kolkata where a large crowd of youngsters had gathered just for a glimpse of the Bollywood singer. KK passed away hours after this concert.
As we revisit his hit number Pal, which defines this moment of mourning, here are a few other gems for KK fans to tune into to keep his memory alive.
Yaaron from Pal
Yaaron has been the go-to farewell anthem since its release in 1999. KK’s debut solo album, comprising eight songs, Yaaron was arranged, composed and produced by Leslie Lewis who just knew how to capture the magic of KK’s voice.
Tadap Tadap from Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam
Tadap Tadap from Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam captured the agony of falling in love and then losing the loved one like no other. KK also displayed his staggering range with this song composed by Ismail Darbar.
Ankhon Mein Teri from Om Shanti Om
Ankhon mein teri launched Deepika Padukone and her dreamy eyes in her Bollywood debut Om Shanti Om opposite Shah Rukh Khan. It remains a popular love ballad till date.
Alvida from Life in a Metro
Kaise keh diya alvida is all about refusing to say goodbye. Who knew a heartbreak ballad from Life in a Metro would find a new meaning years after.
The ‘Enroute Kolkata selfie’ the singer shared with his fans on social media. Source: KK@Facebook
Chod Aaye Hum Woh Galiyan from Maachis
Though he had company from Suresh Wadekar, Hariharan and Vinod Sehgal on this song, KK’s melodious voice didn’t go unnoticed in the iconic Chod aaye hum woh galiyan from Maachis. Penned by Gulzar, this was also his first Bollywood playback number.
Aashayein from Iqbal
Aashayein from Iqbal is a song brimming with positivity and hope that wants you to stand up and fight back, every time when the heart needs a little push.
Maine Dil Se Kaha from Rog
This one is for when you are nursing a dejected heart but it’s also about growing wiser through one’s experiences. KK became the voice for Irrfan Khan’s character in this song.
Tuhi Meri from Gangster
KK’s voice and Emraan Hashmi on screen have been an unbeatable combo since 2003, be it Beetein Lamhe from The Train, Zara Sa from Jannat, or Tuhi Meri Shab from Gangster. Emraan-KK numbers still rule the playlists.