The music of Malayalam cinema holds a special place in the cultural and artistic landscape of Kerala. With a rich legacy of traditional music intertwined with contemporary styles, Malayalam film music has been a powerful tool in shaping the emotional and cultural narratives of the state. Over the decades, Kerala’s film industry has crafted its own unique sound, blending classical, folk, and modern genres to create music that resonates with audiences not only in Kerala but across the world.
The Early Days of Malayalam Film Music
The journey of music in Malayalam cinema began in 1928 with the release of Vigathakumaran (The Lost Child), Kerala’s first silent movie. Since it was a silent film, there was no music or songs associated with it. It wasn’t until a decade later, in 1938, with the release of Balan, the first Malayalam talkie, that film music truly made its debut. The songs in Balan were inspired by classical and devotional styles, and while they were simple in composition, they marked the beginning of a new era for music in Kerala’s film industry.
The Golden Era: 1950s to 1970s
The 1950s to 1970s are often regarded as the golden era of Malayalam film music. During this period, the industry witnessed the emergence of legendary music composers like G. Devarajan, V. Dakshinamoorthy, and K. Raghavan. Their compositions drew heavily from Kerala’s classical Carnatic traditions, folk music, and the unique rhythms of the land.
G. Devarajan’s collaborations with lyricist Vayalar Ramavarma produced timeless songs that are still celebrated today. Films like Chemmeen (1965), with music by Salil Chowdhury, took the sound of Malayalam cinema to new heights, blending Bengali folk tunes with Kerala’s coastal rhythms. This film, in particular, played a crucial role in showcasing how the sound of Malayalam cinema could cross regional borders and be recognized nationally.
Influence of Classical Music
Classical music, especially Carnatic music, has been a bedrock of Malayalam film music. The early compositions were often rooted in ragas, and many of the playback singers were classically trained. The contributions of singers like K.J. Yesudas and P. Leela, who were not only popular in Kerala but across India, cannot be understated. Their soulful renditions in films helped Malayalam cinema stand out.
K.J. Yesudas, often referred to as the voice of Kerala, dominated the Malayalam film industry for decades. His ability to effortlessly switch between classical, devotional, and modern styles made him one of the most versatile singers in India. His collaboration with composers like M.K. Arjunan and Raveendran is iconic, producing songs that are still etched in the hearts of Malayalees.
The Evolution: From 1980s to the Present
The 1980s and 1990s brought about significant changes in Malayalam film music. Composers like Ilaiyaraaja, who predominantly worked in Tamil cinema, made a significant impact on Malayalam music as well. His fusion of western orchestration with Indian melodies created a fresh sound. The 1990s saw the rise of Raveendran, whose compositions were known for their rich orchestration and emotional depth.
In the 2000s, Malayalam cinema began to embrace more experimental and diverse musical genres. Composers like M. Jayachandran, Ouseppachan, and Bijibal started exploring new territories by incorporating electronic music, fusion, and global influences. The arrival of Gopi Sundar and Shaan Rahman further revolutionized the sound of Malayalam films with their ability to create contemporary and youthful tunes that appealed to the younger generation.
Folk Music and Regional Sounds
Another significant element that defines the sound of Malayalam cinema is its deep connection with Kerala’s folk music traditions. From the tunes of Naadan Paattu (folk songs) to the beats of traditional percussion instruments like Chenda and Maddalam, Malayalam cinema has always celebrated the sounds of the land. Films like Manichitrathazhu (1993) incorporated folk rhythms and melodies to heighten their narrative, creating an indelible impact on how sound is used in storytelling.
The Role of Lyrics
Lyrics have played a central role in shaping Malayalam film music. Lyricists like Vayalar Ramavarma, O.N.V. Kurup, and Sreekumaran Thampi have contributed immensely to the poetic beauty of Malayalam songs. The songs often touch on themes of love, devotion, nature, and human emotions, connecting deeply with the ethos of Kerala. The literary quality of the lyrics, combined with the music, has made many Malayalam film songs timeless.
Current Trends: Merging Tradition with Innovation
Today, Malayalam cinema is witnessing a renaissance in its music scene. The new generation of composers is unafraid to experiment while staying rooted in Kerala’s musical traditions. Prashant Pillai, Rex Vijayan, and Govind Vasantha are among those leading the charge, blending traditional folk, rock, and electronic elements to create innovative soundscapes. Films like Premam (2015) and Kumbalangi Nights (2019) have become known not only for their storytelling but for their memorable music that resonates with today’s audiences.
