A quiet but intense debate has begun in the music industry after AR Rahman recently suggested that he may not be getting enough work due to deeper issues, even hinting at a possible communal bias. His comments quickly caught attention and now fellow singer Shaan has responded, offering a very different and grounded perspective.
Speaking shortly after AR Rahman’s remarks made headlines, Shaan makes it clear that he does not believe the music industry works along communal or religious lines. He urges people not to read too much into professional slowdowns and instead focus on the core of the craft. According to him, ups and downs are part of every artist’s journey, regardless of their stature or past success.
Shaan shares that even after singing for decades and delivering countless popular songs, there are phases when work slows down. He explains that he has learned not to take it personally because creative decisions are subjective. Producers, composers and filmmakers all have their own tastes, needs and thought processes and sometimes an artist simply doesn’t fit what they are looking for at that moment.
He further pointed out that if bias truly dictated opportunities, many of the biggest names in Hindi cinema over the last few decades would not have enjoyed such long and successful careers. For him, music is a space driven by talent, relevance and suitability, not identity. His advice was simple — focus on doing honest work and creating good music instead of getting caught in assumptions that only add stress.
Shaan also explains that every song comes with a specific vision. Decisions are made based on what best serves the composition, and opinions will always differ. Some choices will be praised, others criticised, but overthinking those judgments rarely helps an artist grow.
AR Rahman, in his earlier interview, had reflected on how his relationship with Hindi cinema has changed in recent years. He says he has never chased work and believes that sincerity should naturally bring opportunities. However, he also mentions that shifts in power within the industry and subtle signals, rather than direct rejection, have made him feel distanced at times.
While AR Rahman’s words opened an uncomfortable conversation, Shaan’s response offered reassurance, reminding everyone that music, at its heart, remains bigger than divisions.
