Ayaan Agnihotri, aka Agni, has mesmerised us with his debut track Party fever (composed by Payal Dev), featuring Salman Khan (in a cameo), and is ready to drop another single, titled You are mine, composed by Vishal Mishra, and sung and written by Agni (rap) and Salman. After the foot-tapping Party fever, You are mine will be on the romantic side, coming with Hindi and English lyrics and two rap sections that add a fun twist. Party fever gathered over seven million views on YouTube. Will Agni attract more fans with his upcoming single? Here’s what he told t2.
What is You are mine about?
The song is composed by Vishal Mishra, and written and sung by Salman Khan. I feature in two sections of the song — a rap in the middle and one at the end. It’s a love song that blends beautiful Hindi and English lyrics. It has a sweet melody.
How was it working on both Party fever and You are mine with Salman Khan?
Party fever is composed by Payal Dev, and sung by Payal and me. Salman mamu had a “cameo” in the song. In You are mine, he’s the lead singer and lyricist. It has been great working with him. Seeing him live in action is inspiring. He has taught me tricks about appearing in a music video.
Has the love song been inspired by a story?
Almost all the songs I make are inspired by some aspect of my life. Yes, a few aspects of the song have been inspired by real-life experiences.
What’s next after You are mine?
I’m focusing on releasing new tracks every month. The next numbers are English tracks, composed and written by me. It’ll lead up to the launch of my EP.
Why do you switch between Hindi and English?
English is what I speak predominantly. I think Hindi is harder to write in. I find it easier to write in English and it becomes easier to connect to the rest of the world. Hip-hop and R&B are my main focus and I’d love to incorporate elements of jazz into my music.
How did you get into music?
Music is a passion. I’ve been writing and composing for 10 years now. I started writing lyrics when I was in the 11th standard. That turned to writing and composing music.
Who are your favourites in the Hindi music industry?
When it comes to music production, I really love Aditya Dev. I’ve never seen someone so dedicated. In terms of talent, Vishal Mishra impresses me. I’ve been to his studio and have heard him sing unreleased songs; he is phenomenal.
From the making of You Are Mine, what are some memories you’ve made with Salman Khan?
Salman mamu is very affectionate, but his way of showing his love is tough. It’s tough love and he shows it with good intentions. He absolutely loves to see us grow up and, having gone through hardships, he makes sure that we’re prepared for the future. He wants us to learn from him and his life... and wants us to grow.
What plans do you have for the Bollywood music industry?
I think music transcends barriers and languages. I’m open to making quality music. But I don’t want to get stuck into making just commercial stuff.
Any woman musician you want to collaborate with?
I’d love to collaborate with Raja Kumari (American rapper and singer).
