Salman Khan has made his debut as a lyricist with the track Selfish from his forthcoming film, Race 3.
Speaking about the collaboration, composer-singer Vishal Mishra said: “I think he is one of those people who has the most transparent vision ever. His language skills are amazing. He was very clear that he wanted a simple love song from a woman’s point of view.”
Mishra continued: “The song we envisioned was always about being selfish and falling in love as it’s such a beautiful thing. Salman sir put down the thoughts in words so wonderfully and I am happy that we could create a melody around it.
“[The work on] Selfish started 18 months ago when Salman sir and I were jamming on some lines that he had written on a piece of paper. Then, over the course of time it became a song which fortunately fitted perfectly during a situation in Race 3,” he added.
For the song, the makers have roped in Atif Aslam and Khan’s rumoured girlfriend, Iulia Vantur, as the lead singers.
“I was sure no one could do justice to it like Atif Aslam. He too loved the song the moment he heard it,” said Mishra.
Then Vantur stepped in for the female vocals.
“Iulia’s voice has a beautiful texture and it sounds very distinct. In Veere Di Wedding too, I needed a western sounding voice and Iulia fit the bill,” he said.
“I had worked with Iulia for a Marathi film directed by Mahesh Manjrekar as well. She has a fantastic voice and sky is the limit for her,” he added.
Composing music for Veere Di Wedding and Race 3 have been “great experiences” for Mishra.
“In Veere, I worked with [producer] Rhea Kapoor who is innovative and independent, whereas Salman sir is so clear about what he has in mind. Composing for films is all about being guided by the script and I try to keep the situation in mind while making any song,” he said.
“The pressure was more for Race 3 as the franchise’s last two outings had great music. Luckily, things are looking great for Race 3 too,” he added.
Mishra says he is in the best phase of his musical career right now.
“After Race 3, I will be working for Yamla Pagla Deewana 3, where [veteran actress] Rekha ji has rapped for me. Salman sir, Dharmendra ji and Sonakshi Sinha have sung for me. The choreography is by Remo [D’souza] sir. It’s nothing short of a carnival,” he said.
