Usha Uthup: Chennai Shaped My Music & Me

Singer Usha Uthup shared insights into her deep connection with Chennai, a city she credits with shaping her music, discipline, and perspective. Uthup expressed gratitude for the city's discerning audiences and warm acceptance, noting how Madras embraced her. She fondly recalls the Kanjivaram sari and malli poo, symbolic of her integration into the city's culture.

Uthup described the Margazhi season as one of the world's most significant music festivals, always feeling a nervous excitement performing in Chennai. She emphasized her continuous effort to improve as a musician, striving to deliver her best for the knowledgeable audience. Her career, spanning over five decades, has seen her explore diverse genres including pop, jazz, film music, and devotional songs.

Reflecting on her journey, Uthup believes her unique timing and unwavering originality helped break barriers and challenge stereotypes, especially for women in music. She attributes her success not to being a flawless singer, but to being authentically herself. Uthup stated that music has been a constant source of strength, keeping her afloat and motivated through life's challenges.