AR Rahman talks making music with Mick Jagger and bringing his Greatest Hits concert to London

Legendary composer and producer AR Rahman talks life post Slumdog Millionaire, performing in London and making music with Mick Jagger.

You’ve created music for over 100 movies how do you pick your ‘Greatest Hits’?

I’ve chosen whatever stays in peoples memories. I wanted to take something that was not over-produced to create a more improvised show in places. I’ve included iconic songs from Roja and Bombay, it’s a compilation of my music from the movies. Some of the more recent movies with Mani Ratnam and Imtiaz Ali will also feature.

How does it feel to perform in London?

I like London a lot. I spent a lot of time here for Bombay Dreams. It’s kind of a melting pot; the whole south Asian population is in London. Whenever I meet people I get a very good vibration. The last show was a success so I’m hoping this one will do equally as well.

You recently worked with Mick Jagger and Joss Stone in SuperHeavy…

I had a lot of fun. In a band like that you take a while to come to your senses and you ask ‘What the hell am I doing here?’. It’s not because they’re all famous, but it’s the vibe, melting four different genres of music. It was a bit intimidating.

You’re the master of Eastern/Western fusion; do you see yourself in any other young talent?

There are a lot of people in the UK, America and India who are making music for the younger generations and responding to what they want but I’ve been too busy with work recently to name anyone in particular.

What are you most proud of?

I come from a very musical background. The last two generations of my family have been in music. We’re proud of being a part of music and in a way serving music. Now my son is singing too.

Did you always know that music would be such an important part of your life?

No, not really, I was always guided by my mother. My mother always believed that I should become a musician, not necessarily a composer. Usually parents encourage their children to study but my parents encouraged me to just do music!

What does music mean to you?

It’s an expression. You can express in a million ways and can still be trying to find the right way.

Can you tell us about your upcoming projects?

I’m currently finishing Imtiaz Ali’s film Tamasha with Ranbir Kapoor. I’m also working on Aamir Khan’s movie. And of course I’m producing and scripting my own movie. It’s been going on for four years, I’m still casting…

Tickets for The Greatest Hits Live concert on Saturday the 15th of August are still available at AXS.com.

The O2 will be putting on film screenings, street food and free dance lessons to celebrate Indian Independence Day before the concert.