A Salute to Rafisahab

A Salute to Rafisahab. Rafi had a career spanning four decades in which he did over 25,000 songs. Qawwalis, bhajans, classical, melodic love songs. These are just some of the types of songs that Rafi did. Sure he was not the most technically brilliant singer to arise from India, but Rafi had a charm of his own. Although he passed away in 1980 his warm voice is still alive in the ears of his loyal fans both at home and abroad. 

1. Aaj Kal Tere Mere Pyar Ke Charche (Brahmachari)

An evergreen song that is fused with the 60’s hippie feel. This song could be used as an anti- depressant. A real mood lifter.

2. Kar Chale Hum Fida (Haqeeqat)

This song from the ‘62 Sino-Indian War based movie can give goose bumps to any patriotic Indian. Kaifi Azmi’s lyrics and Madan Mohan’s music direction behind this number provide the fitting tribute to the brave soldiers who died for their country. 

3. Baar Baar Dekho (China Town)

A true classic, with a great swing feel to it. Rafi’s lethargically splendid vocals bring back memories of the swing era.    

4. Yahoo! (Junglee)

There mustn’t be many Indians who haven’t heard this song. He maintained this same feel for the song ‘Suku Suku’ from the same movie. One of the many styles he excelled at. 

5. Tarif Karun Kya Uski (Kashmir Ki Kali)

A fun filled romantic song. Rafi moderates his vocals brilliantly to match the changing beats of the song. The clapping outro is specially noteworthy. 

6. Aasman Se Aaya Farishta (An Evening In Paris)

It was Rafi’s voice behind Shammi’s wild onscreen dance moves that got the later the tag of the Indian Elvis Presley. Shammi’s once again chasing Sharmila Tagore.  

7. Pardah Hai Pardah (Amar Akbar Anthony)

The Qawwali number from ‘Amar Akbar Anthony’. Qawwalis are not everyone’s cup of tea. But Rafi’s executed this as well as he did on any of his melodic rhymes.  

8. Kya Hua Tera Wada ( Hum Kisi Se Kum Nahin)

Out in 1977 the movie was the comeback film for Rafi. He managed to regain the some of the limelight which he had lost to Kishoreda, by taking   home the award for Best Playback. 

9. Maine poocha chand se (Abdullah)

Another slow and melodic track by the master. Although at the twilight of his life and career Rafi didn’t show signs of letting down. 

10. Puccho Na Yaar Kya Hua (Zaamane Ko Dikhana Hai)

A lovely track and a found memory of one the greatest singers this world has ever seen. He left this movie unfinished.