Twenty Best Songs of Shankar-Jaikishan

At the age of nine I used to hum the melodies from Barsat without knowing that they were composed by Shanker Jaikishan the greatest composers India should be proud of.

It is a misfortune for music lovers that they left this world at at a relatively young age. We have yet to see similar composers.

K.Venkateswarlu

I got into music back in 1993 with Baazigar and Darr(Was in deep love-lost her, but waiting till date), so I myself started being obsessed with MUSIC and POETRY and LYRICAL words. I kept keen track of music-Bollywood till 2000, when I bought cassette ANDAZ 1971.

During repeated listening, One song stood out as special and that was the song " MUJHE PYAS AISI PYAS LAGI HAI" sung by ASHA BHONSLE. From then I STARTED EXPLORING MY DADS CASSETTES of 50s, 60s & 70s.

One thing that startled was SHANKAR-JAIKISHEN(SJ) songs among the collection of 500 cassettes. I immediately left  new songs and started exploring SJ songs.My journey till now has ended with 900 songs of the 1100 odd songs they composed. Thats around 80%, which I think is great and my open challenge to anyone who have such a huge possession of SJ songs.

I have explored so many details about SJ and their lyricists that I say I have read 90-99% articles that have been written on them be it on paper or on internet or TV programs.

WHAT IS UNIQUE ABOUT SJ?- Well to be in short, SJ actually understood better than any Indian music director till date(Exception -ILLAYARAJA-TAMIL & RAJAN-NAGENDRA-KANNADA).

In 1949 while recording BARSAAT music, SHANKAR was just 27 yrs and JAIKISHAN just 19 years. And they brought for the first time full fledged orchestra. Imagine at a such young age what achievement they did. From then till 1975, their songs had a exceptional charm.

During their journey between 1949 & 1991(Last released film GORI 1991), they gave music to 184 films. 60% were silver Jubliees, 20% Golden Jubilees & 10% Platinum Jubilees.

They made great some well known artists like-LATA MANGESHKAR, MUKESH, RAFI SAAB, TALAT MOHD, SHAMMI KAPOOR, RAJ KAPOOR, ASHA BHONSLE, SHAILENDRA, HASRAT JAIPURI, NEERAJ, VARMA MALIK, RAJENDRA KUMAR, VYJAYANTHI MALA, HEME MALINI, ETC .HOW?

Through their hard work, they made beautiful melodies and singers, lyricists along with acting artists reaped huge rewards monetarily and fame wise.

They set unique trend of music, which consisted of preludes and interludes and they generally referred music from international standard where full fledged ORCHESTRA was required. Thats why their music is still hummable. Equally they referred folk and Raag based songs and modified to suit cinematic music. In 1968, they brought out the album RAAG with JAZZ, If you be on youtube you will be able to listen the songs.

If let be compared the Background music of SJ vs say-Naushad, Madan Mohan, O P Nayyar, S D Burman, R D Burman, Laxmikant-Pyarelal, Kalyanji Anandji, Husnlal-Bhagatram, C Ramachandra, Chitragupt etc, you will right away find huge difference(except where other music diractors have copied SJ).

Their songs were a craze then and seeing the banner or hero, nobody went to theatre, but when MD were SJ, people used to flock to theatres in 50s & 60s. With Appx 6-8 films a year as average the quality was maintained very high and that is why they earned 9 FILMFARE awards between 1956-1972, a record only broken in 2011.

But still so, SJ competed with high class MD like-Naushad, Madan Mohan, O P Nayyar, S D Burman, R D Burman, Laxmikant-Pyarelal, Kalyanji Anandji, Husnlal-Bhagatram, C Ramachandra, Chitragupt etc, So you clearly see why they were so faaaaaaaaaaar ahead of time.

In 1968, SJ got PADMASHREE, One year ahead of DADA Burman. Naushad was very happy listening this. Guess who were jealous, of course LAXMIKANT PYARELAL. LP always took the films which SJ left and copied SJ style of music and got fame.how cheap. Same was also done by KALYANJI-ANANDJI in 60s and R D Burman during his initial struggling days, which is why SHANKAR composed the song on R D Burman as " KAWWA CHALA HANS KI CHAAL, AAKHIR BHOOLA APNI CHAAL".

Nobody believes, but when you analyze keenly, you will find that it was fact that some artists-LATA MANGESHKAR, ASHA BHONSLE, SHARADA, MKESH, MOHD RAFI, KISHORE KUMAR, SUMAN KALYANPUR all from singing industry, RAJ KAPOOR, SHAMMI KAPOOR, RAJENDRA KUMAR, SUNIL DUTT, VYJAYANTHIMALA, HEMA MALINI from acting side all were heavily lucky to have had SJ music during their initial struggling days which made them hugely successful and they forgot them when they acheieved fame-exception KISHORE KUMAR AND MOHD RAFI.

Even Illayaraja, LP, Kalyanji-Aanandji, Nadeem Shravan, Anu Malik, SHANKAR of SHANKAR-EHSAAN-LOY team, have all confessed that SJ were numero Uno MD of Bollywood then till date. Nobody could beat what they created and nobody will be born to beat them.

Today when awards are being sold like cloths on the street, some MD like ARR get awards every year and with hardly any competition, even a dog can get a award provided its music is popular, but it certainly lacks the elements of ingenuity somewhere and merely being hummable does not get any positive vote in the long run. Such songs are hummed for a year and forgotten, being replaced by the new songs and only melody gets counted no lyrical value.

WHAT DESTROYED THE ERA CREATED BY SJ? Do you know or want to refer my comments below.

First 1970s, brought new generation and they were fascinated by the music created then by LP and RDB. And what who was common lyricist?-ANAND BAKSHI. This man might be popular now, but compare his lyrics with the then legends like SAHIR, SHAILENDRA, HASRAT JAIPURI, MAJROOH etc. Bakshi s lyrics were pathetic then with no meaningful words but mere rhyms which later in 90s and 00s was followed in similar fashion by lyricist SAMEER. Lata Mangeshkar in an interview in 80s said SJ kind of music era was destroyed literally by 70s MD like LP, K-A, R D B and that era will never come again.

So who lost? We lost and at loss were all the ears across the globe. Be it in US, UK, RUSSIA, CARRIBIAN, AFRICA, JAPAN, MALAYSIA, SRI LANKA, PAKISTAN, SINGAPORE, AUSTRALIA OR EUROPE, everywhere people hummed and enjoyed international grade music given by SJ and when their time was over, the music was dead in the ears of the foreigners for almost 20 years till ASHIQUI and like movies came in.

Today Media drives everything like remixs of yesteryear songs, especially of R D Burman. But they can effectively twist music of SJ so SJ numbers have not been remixed in huge numbers. Todays generation except a few say 10%, rest are all fickle minded and dont like listening old songs. They are at loss and not SJ or we, who always worship SJ.

I myself have heard say I take a single song of SJ and hear it till I get bored(by then I might have heard the song around 500-1000 times in a week or so). Likewise I have been doing justice listening and enjoying every song SJ have composed. I dont get same pleasure listening songs from other MDs(Exception ARE SONGS OF 90S, Songs composed by ILLAYARAJA, RAJAN-NAGENDRA and a few).

I am happy for 12 years of my love to SJ have been written in around 7324 words here. Hope you will enjoy and please mail me if you want to know anything about SJ. I may in my lifetime write a book on them for the new generation. So Please keep alive the tradition of SJ music to every music lover.

Pls contact me on my mail id-tjwagle@hotmail.com. I welcome everyone who want to know about SJ and many thing of bollywood from 1935-2000.

BYE AND TAKE CARE.THANKS SO MUCH FOR READING THIS. I LOVE YOU FOR THIS.

I am the greatest music lover of Shankar Jaikishan in my High School Days. Actually I dont know what is the best Music in Hindi Films, but whatever the songs I liked the most  , that means heard through Radio later I came to know that all the songs which I liked  was all composed by Shankar Jaikishan.

I ever heard the Music Directors like Sahankar jaikishan, they are so popular in their songs, music, simplicity, showmanship, their look. It is a very sad thing that they are no more now and deprived us to listen the good music further, and I lost interest in today's music, it is not worth to listen once.

On my face book account I  already pasted the Photo of Shankar jaikishan

WE AS A INDIAN ARE LUCKY TO HAVE S J IN OUR LIFE. WE LIVED AND ARE LIVING OUR LIFE WITH RICH HINDI FILM MUSIC ONLY BECAUSE OF SJ. THEIR CONTRIBUTION TO HINDI CENEMA IS UNCOMPERABLE AND MOST VALUEABLE. THEY AND THEIR TWO LYRIST SHAILENDRA AND HASRAT SET NEW TRAND IN HINDI FILM MUSIC. THEY ALL GAVE US MOST MELODIOUS AND SIMPLE SONGS WITH APPROPREAT USE OF ORCHETRA, WHICH ONE SING EASYLY AND REMEMBER FOR EVER . THEY WERE MASTERS OF CREATING ANY TYPE OF SONG AND FOR ANY TYPE OF SITUATION. THEY USED MOST OF THE INTRUMENTS, SINGERS IN SUCH A WATY THAT AFTER LISTENING THEM, YOU WILL JUST HAVE TO SAY NO ONE CAN CREAT THIS SONG BETTER THAN SJ. THATS THE CAPABILITY THEY HAVE. UNDOUBTLY THEY ARE GOD'S GIFT TO OUR HINDI CENEMA AND TO US

The composer duo was trend setter. with stupendous commercial success of the duo there are many composer pairs like Kalayanji Anadji, Laxmikant Pyarelal., Jatin lalit, Nadim Shravan, Anand-Millind etc.

They made film music popular with lilting tunes.so much so that composers in next generation aped their style of creating hummable tunes. The orchestra of LP was based on SJ style but as less lively.LP, KA and Rahuldeb Burman) though son of Sachindev Burman a great composer) all regarded SJ music as role model for their compositions.

SJ ruled from 1950 to 1970 and gave hits after hits and yet maintained standard which no other prolific composer could manage with the exception of Burman. They scored music for over 100 movies but many movies had a dozen songs each and each song would be hit.

To Shanker Jaikishan goes the credit of popularizing the voices of Lata and Mukesh.

They used voice of Mannna dey brilliantly more than any other composer. The duo popularized classical music in Hindi films . They gave western tunes and folk tunes with equal ease.

Such was their "karishma" that music composer LP themselves voted for SJ "whenever there is any ranking has to be done even though LP took the baton of commercially successful composer post 1970s. But SJ never gave dull music. and people missed the freshness and peppy tunes of SJ in the later era ruled by LP especially in eighties. . Moreover SJ produced memorable songs dime a dozen which could not be matched by any other composer with the exceptions of Burmans. Along with SD Burman they initially started using the voice of kishorekumar in fifties and even though the combination produced wonders they mysteriously slided Kishore and in sixties their music mainly was dominated by Rafi's male voice and Rafi s voice sounded same for Rajendrakumar or Shammi under SJ. baton. Same Rafi was refreshingly live with S. D Burman and OP Nayyar.

LP maintained that SJ were the greatest composer of all times. In late sixties the internal split between the duo, the preference of Shanker to singer Sharada the staleness due to overuse Rafis voice monotonously and the blow given by Rajkapur by selecting LP as MD for Bobby weree the main causes of their downfall.

But LP and R D could not maintain the standard of RK music.

Even bobby score is inferior to Mera nam Joker score.

Rajkapur was soon unhappy and replaced LP with Ravindra jain after just 3 movies.

I would like to close with the fact that in Mumbai the capital of Bollywood the famous orchestra of Suhaschandra Kulkarni "Melody Makers "regulary stahed a program in 1973-1975 titled "Shanker Jiakishan Kal aur Rahuldev Burman Aaj"!

another sad that 10 best songs of Kishore under SJ score over ten best songs of Rafi under Of course SJ Mukesh and Manna dey combinations excel than their compositions with Rafi or Kishore

twenty m memorable songs

1) Hawame udta jaye mera lal dupatta malmalka - Barssat - lata the song christened a new era of the nightingale Lata with her famous school girlish voice!

2) Jiya Bekarar hai - Lata simply unimitable

3) kisiiki muskarahato pe .Mukesh - beautifully sung and composed

4) Aa ab laut chale mukesh -lata marvellus composition "jis desh me ganga bahati hai"

5) Mud mud ke na dekh mud mud ke - " simply marvellous unorthodox composition " -maanna de -asha - "shri 430"

6) Tu pyar ka sagar hai Manna de - "Seema " beautifully sung, composition

7) Laga chunari me dag - Manna de

8) Zindagi ik safar hai suhana - kishore Millennium song

9) Jane kaha gaye wo din - Mukesh

10) Nalhare wali - New Delhi -innovative yodeling - Kishore

11) Ae mere dil kahi aur chal - Talat sung inn soft silky voice

12) Pyar hua ikrar hua Lata -Manna De Lata duet

13) Aaja sanam madhur chandani me - Lata - Manna De

14) Zanak anak tori baje payaliya - Manna De claasical song graet masterpiece

15) Geet gata hu mai -Kishore - beautifully sung and prbably last spark of SJ

16) Rat ke humsafar -Rafi -Asha -One of the finest duets ever composed in Films

17) pyar kiya dil ne kaha ho tum Lata Hemant

18) Chotisi ye duniya -Kishore - a romantic yet serious song

19) Pankh hoti to uda aati me Lata beautifully sung and typical SJ -Lata touch

20) Dost dost na raha -Mukesh typical SJ-Mukesh

I m a great fan of SJ. In fact there is endless songs the duo have composed for Bollywood. SJ work will be remember forever in Hindi cinema. No other music director is close to SJ in popularity. Take awara, sri420, asli naqli, dil ek mandir, rajkumar, junglee, barsat, jis desh ma ganga bahti ha, andaz, susral, hamrahi, suraj, arzoo.

In 60's almost there were 7 to 8 songs in binaca geet mala composed by SJ. Even today those songs are ultimate. With Rafi and Lata SJ created the history.

Virendra Goel

Some of the evergreen songs of SJ WHICH WILL BE ALIVE FOREVER.

1. Baharo ful barsao.

2.Tum mujhe yun bhula na paoge.

3.Ahesaan tera.

4.Aja aii bahar dil main.

5.Jena yahan marna yahan.

6.Jane kaha gaye woh din.

7.Zindegi ek safar.

8.Dil ke jhoroko se.

9.Raat ke ham safar.

10 Mera dil hai tera tera dil hai mera.

11.Teri pyaari pyaari surat.

12.Chahe koi mujhe jungli kahe.

13.Badan pe sitare.

1. Koun hai jo sapnome aya.

15.Japan love in Tokyo.

16.Ajare aa jara.

17.Akele akele kahan ja rahe ho.

18.Awaj de ke hame tum bulao.

19.Main chali main chali.

20.Mujhe kitna pyar hai tum se.

21.E raat bhigi bhigi.

22.Mera juta hai Japani.

23.Kisiki muskura hoto pe nisaar.

24.Main gau tum so jau.

25.Hoga tumse kalka sapna.

26.Lal chari maidan khari.

27.E gulbadan.

28.Beder dia.

29.Aji ruth kar ab.

30 E fulo ki rani Etc Etc Etc.

Sankar Jaikishan, a versatile composer-duo, has completely changed the trend of the then ongoing in bolly-wood, I like almost all the songs the music director of which was SJ though they are not properly evaluated in now-a- days discussion; recently TIMES NOW channel has nicely depicted the Quintessence of their colourful musical carrier;due to untimely death of Jaikishan the era of this golden music came to an end, this is the irony of fate, please send me a bunch of outstanding collections of music composed by them either with great Shailendra or Hasrat jaipuri-the immortal uncomparable lyricists.

Your selection I s very good some of them are everatingones I am now 55 I fondly remember the days of  sangam  mera nam joker jeevita chakram( telugu) sanyasi days when I keenly listened to radio for these songs . in 1972 I bought the  lp of barsaat  i saw their films for merely their music caring little for the cast.

Every year I listen to radio on 26th april and 12th september what songs of sj will be played as a memory of them I wrote some of them on paper from 1984 and preserved them as rich memontoes  lastly  m y knowledge of hindi is very little still I love their music for their orchestration

This is a tough ask. Choosing just 20 songs showcasing the

orchestrations of a talented music director duo. Boy o Boy!. This is my list of

songs that I feel are their best orchestrations. Mind you – I won’t be talking

lyrics here. The songs I am jotting down are for their amazing music.

In no particular order of preference is how one puts it, but

for me, The song that takes my 1st position is a double song.

1)      Starting

off with Tere Bina aaj yeh Chandni & culminating with Ghar aaya mera

Pardesi. This is one awesome orchestration. Very well supported by the vocal

talents of Lata Mangeshkar and Manna Dey. – Just Wow.

2)      Aa

ab laut Chale – From the film Jis Desh Me Ganga Behti Hai.

3)      The

Folky Music of Chalat Musafir  - teesri

Kasam

4)      Dilke

Jharoke pe – Brahmachari – Mohd Rafi did absolute justice to this awesome track

5)      O

mere Sanam – Sangam . Classy

6)      Chandrama

madbhara kyo jhoome – Patrani – Just listen to this

7)      Aaja

Ke Intezaar Me – Halaku

8)      Bhay

Banjana – Basant Bahar

9)      Lapak

Jhapak – Boot Polish

10)  Bijli

giraake aap – Dil tera Diwana

11)  Kahe jhoom

jhoom raat ye suhani – love marriage

12)  Yaad na

jaye – Dil Ek Mandir – orchestration+ rendition

13)   Mudmudke na dekh – Shree 420

14)   Koi rangeela sapno me aakar – Ujala

15)  Ek sawaal

main karoon – Sasural

16)   Kisine apna banake mujhko – Patita

17)   Is Rang Badalti – Rajkumar

18)  Jaane

kahaan gaye who din – Mera naam joker

19)  Jhanak

jhanak tori baaje payaliya – Mere Huzoor

20)  Aji aisa

mauka phir – an evening in paris

I do hope these have covered the orchestrations, but there

are so many more of this genius duo, I have over 300 songs of this duo, and at

every different moment, a new song regales me.

Awesome, my dear friends – awesome.

I am amit k patil, I am big fan of shankar jaikishan music

they only one music composer who explore the indian music in universe

other than these composer have not and never did and do those kind of

orchestration and varsatality in composition

if we listen their songs we observe one thing that one song is different than the

other. this conclude that they never repeat their composition every time they explore new things

and in ther\ir music the consider all age group.

my friend asked a question that who is your favourite musician I replied that sj

I kept sj in my heart and it echoing in my soul

once again my self asked a question that which is my favouritesong of sj

I can't and never answered because each and every song of them were fantastic

these both were expert in rock, jazz, classical indian/western style, vocal, folk

these were the damdar jodi of tthe indian film industry.

I proud to say that they were the music director of the millenium

no one can take their place.

their music is popular in europe, latin america, and especially in russia till now also

ofcourse in india

SHANKAR – JAIKISHAN   the most powerful name in the History of the Indian Film Music that has remain immortal.  SJ has his own style of composing the music.  SJ produced the maximum GEMS of songs during the span 20 years, (1950 – 1970) non-stop hit music. After SJ, only SJ’s follower Laxmikant-Pyarelal achieved this height of towering success of 35 years, non-stop.(1963 – 1998).

Shankar from Uttar Pradesh, and Jaikishan Panchal from Bulsar, (Gujarat) formed a team in 1949 they got the major breakthrough in 1950 when Raj Kapoor was looking for the new music director for his latest film “Barsat”(1950).  After the  success of “Barast” SJ have composeded some of the best songs till the death of Jaikishan(1971).

Most of the SJ’s songs were based on Indian Classical, Indian Folk. SJ’s songs would appeal to both masses and classes.  Raag'Shivranjani' and Raag'Bhairavi' were the favorite Raag's of SJ. And they produced most of the song on these ragas. Excellent orchestra including Accordion,  Sitar, Piano, Dholak, Tabala etc. are the another highlight of the SJ's music.   They were able to survive among the compensatory and legendary music directors. Though the quality of SJ’ music started declining in the late 70s.

SJ have won as many as  9 Filmfare Trophies highest by any music directors( LP have won 7 Filmfare Trophies, followed by SJ).  Won the President Award, for the music for the film “Teesari Kasam” in 1966.  SJ also honored with the title of “Padmashree” by the government of India in 1967.

Shankar-Jaikishan's biggest disappointment of the life was not to receive the Filmfare Award, for the film'Sangam' in 1964.

However, I am a great fan of Laxmikant-Pyarelal, but sportingly I must confess that, I too rate SJ as no 1 music directors of the film industry. Had I born just before 2 years earlier I would have too become SJ’s grate fan.

Hawa Main Udata Jaye .Lata Mangeshkar… “Barasat”…. 1950.

SJ started with flourishing start from their very first film.  All songs his but my favorite is this song being based on UP folk and its give pleasant to here Lata’s fresh voice.

Aaja Ke Intzar Main .Lata – Rafi … ”Halaku” ….  1951.

If I were to rate, the best duet of Lata-Rafi I would vote for this. Totally different song few western beats in the songs reminds you the belle dance tunes.  The song has been sung on very high pitch.

Jane Na Najar Pehachane Jigar. Lata – Mukesh….   “Aah”….  1951.

Once again, all the songs hit but this is my choice from this film, sweet, melodious duet once again SJ proves that they are masters in creating melody for the masses. Best use of the Flute.

Hum Tuzase Mohbbat Kar Ke Sanam Mukesh ….'Aawara' 1955

It is difficult to choose the best of Awara but this is song is of my liking as this song is sad one and SJ have shown they are master in creating sad melody too.

Ramaiyya Wasta Waiyya… Mukesh, Lata and Rafi.  'Shre 420' 1956.

The best song on based on Indian Folk. You listen to this song again and again you will not get bored.

Ai Mere Dil Kahin Aur Chal . Talat Mehamood  ….  “Daag” 1954.

The pieces of Accordion and the Mandolin have given this song very good ear pleasing moments and on top of it Talat has sung this song magnificently, with different mood.

Yad Kiya Dil Ne Kaha Ho Tum . Lata - Hemant Kumar….  “Patita”  1955.

All time favorite song and one of the best duet songs of Lata & Hemant.  Once again SJ proves that they can create the melody by using Accordion effectively. The best song to be played on the Mouthorgan.

Aja Sanam Madhur Chandni Main. Lata – Mannade….'Chori Chori' 1955.

Once again the pieces of Accordion have been used beautifully.  Evergreen and everfresh song.

Aa Nil Gagan Tale Pyar Hum Kare … Lata – Hemant….  'Badshah' 1956.

Lata and Hemang are at their best on this particular song,  SJ's conduction of orchestra is superb. Once again, excellent use of the pieces of Accordion has given this song smoothing melodious touch.

Nain Mile Chain Kahan… Lata – Manande….'Basant Bahar' 1957.

Melodious fast track duet song'dholak' and the flute have  been used magnificently.

Man Mohana Bade Zuthe…. Lata Mangeshkar…  'Seema' 1958.

It is a big challenge for present lot of singers music directors that can they produce such a high quality classical based song?  NO!  they can't.  One of the best song on Indian Classical Raags and my all time favorite.

Wo Chand Khila…Mukesh – Lata'Anadi' 1959.

What an orchestra? Once again SJ's favorite instrument Accordion has been used effectively. I have no words to praise for the conduction of the orchestra.

Ajeeb Dastan Hai. Lata  “Di Apana Aur Prit Parayi” 1960.

Foot stepping, western style, extremely melodious song, excellent use of Guitar.

Ye Mera Deewana Pan Hai…Mukesh … “Yahudi” 1961.

I have no words to praise this song. All together different type of sad song.

Nakhare Wali Kishor Kumar…. “New Delhi” 1962.

Yet another western style, foot stepping,  evergreen song.

Yaad Na Jaye Beete Deeno Ki … Mohammad Rafi… “Dil Ek Mandir” 1962.

SJ has utilized Rafi extremely well and from this song Rafi SJ combination became more closer and have produce some of the best melodies.

O Mere Sanam …. Kukesh – Lata.  “Sangam” 1963.

I feel Sangam is SJ’s best musical movie. All the songs composed in different ways. It is difficult for me to select but since this particular song is based on Rag ‘Bhairavi’ I liked it most.

Muzako Apane Gale Laga Lo. Rafi – Mubaraq Begam…. “Humahi” 1964.

Smoothing melodious duet one of the songs which I would like to here again and again.

Ajahu Na Aaye Balma… Rafi – Suman Kalyanpur…. “Sanz Aur Savera” 1965.

Classical based duet on very high pitch.

Sajanwa Bairi Ho Gaye Hamar… Mukesh….”Teesari Kasam” 1966.

Typical folk from UP.  Sad song but with melody.

Aasman Se Aaya Farishta… Rafi… “An Evening In Paris” 1967.

Western style fast track romantic song. Rafi and SJ at their best.

Kaun Hai Jo Sapanon Main. Rafi … “Zuk Gaya AasmaN” 1968.

Yet another western style romantic song “class of it’s own” from Rafi and SJ.

Dil Ke Girah Khol Do.Lata – Mannade… “Raat Aur Din” 1968.

My personal favorite.

Parade Main Rehane Do… Asha Bhonsle. “Shikar” 1968.

Based on Egyptian folk tune and superbly composed song.

Mukh Se Zara Naquab Hata Do. M. Rafi. “Mere Huzur” 1969.

One of the best Gazal song.

Jane Kahan Gaye Wo Din… Mukesh   “Mera Nam Joker”  1971.

The last best song of SJ.  Based on rag  ‘Bharavi’.

Starting as small time musicians in the film industry, Shankar Jaikishen rose to unmatched heights after they were spotted by Raj Kapoor who wanted some new talent for his film'Barsaat'.

Through the 50s and the 60s, S-J were a rage and the first preference with most production houses. Despite being in an era which had stalwarts like SD Burman, Madan Mohan, Naushad etc, they won 9 Filmfare awards.

Extremely versatile, the duo had their work cut out between them. They could range from western tunes to Hindustani classical, such was their repertoire. However, with the passing away of Jaikishen in the early 70s, their magic began to wane.

Lest I run out space, let me get into the difficult task of selecting just 20 songs from the vast treasurehouse.

-

1. Ghar Aaya mera pardesi(Awara)

Along with Barsaat, RK Films Awara brought early success to S-J. This song was a beautiful number sung by Lata for a dream sequence.

1. Andhe jahaan ke andhe raaste(Patita)

S-J have used Talat Mahmood beautifully to convey the despair in this song.

1. Duniya na bhaye mohe ab to bula le(Basant Bahar)

With classical numbers like 'Kar gaya re' and 'Nain mile chain kahan', 'Ja ja re ja, balamwa', 'Main piya teri tu mane ya mane', S-J silenced critics who accused them of not being able to handle heavy classical tunes. Another such silencer was 'Manmohana bade jhoote'(Seema) sung by Lata, without any musical accompaniments.

1. Woh chaand khila woh tare hasey(Anari)

The second half of the 50s saw S-J establishing themselves as Numero Uno among music directors with such gems. A resident RK films musicians, they came up with some lovely numbers like 'Pyar hua ikraar hua'(Shree 420), 'Jahan main jati hun, wahi chale aate ho'(Chori Chori), 'Yeh raat bheegi bheegi'(chori chori).

1. Dil ka na karna aitbaar koi(Halaku)

Not restricted to big banners, even in small films, S-J brought in some memorable songs like this Rafi-Lata gem.

1. Kahey jhoom jhoom raat yeh suhani(Love Marriage)

Innovative use of orchestra in this Lata solo, watch out for the tantalizing percussion at the end of the first line.

1. Yaad aayi aadhi raat ko kal raat ki tauba(Kanhaiya)

S-J could make Mukesh sing different types of songs instead of restricting him just tragic ones which were his forte.

1. Aa ab laut chale(Jis Desh mein ganga behti hai)

I think this was the best RK film music wise. In this song, along with 'O Basanti, pavan pagal', you can hear the pathos in Lata's voice meshing with the superlative orchestra. Every song in this film is a masterpiece.

1. Ajeeb daastan hai yeh(Dil apna aur preet parayi)

Another superb album with some Lata lovelies like this soft westernized tune as well as the title track, 'Mera dil ab tera o sajana' *and *'Andaz mera mastana'.

1. Tera mera pyar amar(Asli Naqli)

Now in the 60s, S-J continued their prowess with films for actors like Dev Anand and Shammi Kapoor. Don't miss this lilting Lata emerald.

11 Mujhko apne gale laga lo(Humrahi)

S-J made use of a new voice of Mubarak Begum in this beautiful number and came out tops.

1. Ruk jaa raat theher ja re chanda(Dil Ek Mandir)

This song wont fail to move you - you can hear the despair in Lata's voice!

1. Tum to dil ke taar chedkar(Choron ka raja)

A not very well known song. But an innovative tempo and rhythm, this song sung separately by Lata and Talat Mehmood is a must-hear.

1. Chalke teri aankhon se sharaab aur jyaada(Aarzoo).

This typical Rafi-romantic form was in the company of other superb numbers like 'Bedardi balama tujhko mera man yaad karta hai'.

1. Tadap yeh din raat ki(Amrapali)

'Amrapali' with its historical context required a period music which S-J was able to provide. This along with 'Tumhe yaad karte karte' presented a different Lata while she tantalized us with 'Jaao re jogi tum jaao re'

1. Mujhe tum mil gaye humdum(Love in Tokyo)

'Sayonara', 'O mere shah-e-khuba' *were some lovely numbers in this album, but my favorite is this Lata solo.

17 Dil ke jharoke mein tujhko bithakar(Brahmachari)

Apt for a Shammi Kapoor song, this energetic Rafi solo was radical in its orchestrisation.

1. Gumnaam hai koi(Gumnaam)

If you thought only Madan Mohan could compose haunting melodies, think again. This song from Gumnaam can give you the creeps.

1. Gar tum bhula na doge, sapne yeh sach hi honge(Yakeen)

I was in a dilemma whether I should include this song or the other Rafi number 'Kaun hai jo sapnon mein aaya'(Jhuk gaya aasmaan), both of which had the singer at his best.

20.Zindagi ek safar hai suhana(Andaz)

While the 70s saw very little of S-J, this energy effusing Kishore number was an evergreen hit. Unfortunately, by the time Kishore became a full fledged singer, they had almost gone out of the scene. Yet we have a few gems from the 70s sung by KK like 'Geet Gaata hun main'(Lal Patthar) and 'Bhanware ki gunjan'(Kal Aaj aur Kal).

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Whew! That was quite a feat! I can already think of so many songs which I have not been able to include?-such is the range of this musician duo.

They sure don't make `em like that nowadays!

Undoubtedly No.1 music director of Bollywood and no one can ever conquer their position. The high standard they set for Indian cinema is unassailable. Their consistency can be judged from the fact that they have won 9 times Filmfare Award for best MD.

The movies for which they won awards totally deserve to be awarded. In(1956) Chori Chori, (1959) Anari, (1960) Dil Apna Aur Preet Parai, (1962) Professor, (1966) Suraj, (1968) Brahmachari, (1970) Pehchan, (1971) Mera Naam Joker &(1972) Be-Imaan. What a performance? More than impressive.

1. Ramayya Vastavayya?Shree 420

Not less than a wonder. The ignite tune with superb singing makes this song one of the best songs of all times. The beauty of this song lies in its simplicity. Check out Rafi how sweet his voice in this song with Lataji on her peak. No song can beat the sweetness of this song ever.

1. Raja Ki Aaey Gi Baraat-Aah

Sweet Pain in voice of Lataji in this song. I have heard the song sung by many other people they tried to copy Lataji but failed completely the originality and the softness she produced she is unbeatable. All time favorite. People who have listened the newer version of this song are requested to listen the original version and enjoy it. It simply makes me to dance when ever I listen to it. Fabulous song.

1. Pyar Hua Iqrar Hua?Shree 420

A unique style SJ opted is clear again in this song. A cute tune and good lyrics with the singing proves the song to be leading song and sweet heart for every melody lover. The main thing in SJ career is that they work onto the singer and in their songs this is obvious fact. Lead singers expressing feelings of the song. Limited Technological facilities but extraordinary product.

1. Har Dil Jo Pyar Kare Ga?Sangam

Mukesh singing in style. Raj Kapoor lipsing the song in the movie just give impression that he has sung the song. The simple tune and a regular music clicks. Lataji also on a role. A superb song which gives one an idea about the composers. Rafi also comes in the end to sing the song with legends singing together for a legend Music Composer pair. The tune is so beautiful that I have heard many tunes giving the shades of this one in 90?s music.

1. Ghar Aaya Mera Pardesi-Awara

Lataji and Chorus in singing. A sweetest tune of all times. One can easily say that old is gold after listening to this song. A special arrangement style is another highlight of this song. Music that urge you more of it. These days we have many remixes of this song but originality has no match. I would recommend everyone to listen the original song to admire the composers.

1. Jiya Beqarar Hai-Barsaat

Lataji sung the song. The beats on Dholak with some expressional violins, makes the song super one. Unmatchable tune with lead singer a professional nothing can go wrong. The song is evergreen and if you are fortunately a fan of Lataji you will enjoy it more.

1. Title-Dil Apna Aur Preet

Lataji sung the song. No wonder the song is so beautiful that it won an award for SJ. Actually whole album was a special one but this song is something in it. Check out the arrangements in early 60?s SJ were able to produce this kind of melodious and extraordinary song. Harmonica was one of the speciality of SJ?s music and so you can feel in this song. A constant Dholak impact is also wonderful.

1. Tumhain Aur Kya Doon Main Dil Ke Siwa?Aai Milan Ki Bela

Lataji sung the song. The biggest hit song of 1964. Singing of class with the eternal tune this song is the one which people will ever remember. The beauty again lies in its simplicity . The pain in vocal and the tune gives you a treat every time you listen the song.

1. Yeh Shaam Ki Tanhaiyan-Aah

Lataji sung the song. If you ask me which is the best album by SJ ever this album will certainly lead the list. Anu Malik has used this tune in his music of Refugee the song was?Mere Humsafar? check out this original one and you will be amazed the way it was sung and executed by the composers in early 60?s.

1. Jane Na Nazar-Aah

Lataji & Mukesh sung the song. As I have said that this album is one of the best so I cant left out this song from the list. An amazing tune a very regular music but the tune OH! Mine it is extraordinary. I am simply wordless to praise this song.

1. Awara Hoon-Awara

A change tune and with some different music as well. The music is practiced by Nadeem Shravan in their latest flick Bewafaa for the song?Ek Dilruba?. Check out the arrangement style and you will come to know the greatness of these two composers. Creating wonders with their tunes and music sensibility.

1. Aaja Sanam-Chori Chori

Who can forget this song. This was the first album which have provided SJ with an award. And I can safely say the more and more is the contribution by this song. A very famous song. Lyrics are good and singing is undoubtedly wonderful Mana Dey & Lataji sung the song. A difficult tune which singers sung in style.

1. Sau Sal Pehle?Jab Pyar Kisi Se Hota Hai

Rafi & Lata sung the song. Way back 6 years I listened the song for the first time and I was sure it has to be SJ?s music. The song has a simple and quite unique tune. You listen to this song and you can easily tell that in almost 20-30 songs this tune is reutilized.

1. Zindgi Ek Safar Hai Suhana?Andaaz

Rare Kishore Kumar in SJ music. Fortunately Kishore got this song and sung with joy and full expressions. This was the most amazing tune SJ produced and arrangements also give a fresh feeling. Ashaji in the mid provides her laughter and that is also a plus point of the song.

1. Yeh Mera Prem Patar?Sangam

Rafi Sahab sung the song. Different song but impressive enough to be listed in this list. Soft tune and gorgeous singing are the highlights of this song. SJ consistency continues with this song. The one part in the song?Tumse Pyar Hai? gives a feeling of Nadeem Shravan?s song?Kum Se Kum Itna? from the movie Dil Tera Aashiq. You can judge which one is original. With this one can think of the greatness of the old music composers that how much they have produced in one song that people have derived several songs from their songs and I can tell you more than 17 songs derived from this song. A great Applause for Shankar Jaikishan for their high Quality Music Sense.

1. Ab Raat Guzerne wali Hai-Awara

Lataji sung the song. Slow song with superb singing and a wonderful tune. A continuous Violin picking its pace and then dropping with the same Dholak SJ again gives complete melody in this song. Every note gives an impression that there is a message in it. A loving song indeed

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