Mumbai: Percussionist Sivamani launched his first ever album Mahaleela, which is his tribute to the doyens of music he has played alongside. Additionally, Sivamani also launched his own music label called KKVM, which stands for the important people in his life including, Krishani, his wife, Kumaran his son, V for daughter Vashika and M for Mani.
KVKM is an effort by Sivamani to connect with the talent in the Industry by providing opportunities for aspiring and budding musicians. He will play a key role in identifying and developing their musical talent. "Today, we make history in the music industry with KKVM. This label is going to provide new artists with a chance of a lifetime. New artists will receive all the backing and support as they seek to launch their albums. I am confident that this venture of mine will make a positive impact and bring opportunities to undiscovered creativity and musical geniuses," he said.
Present on the occasion was a glittering array of stars who shared the stage with him. Mahaleela is a mix of Instrumental and vocal and is primarily aimed as a tribute to his 35 year journey in the music industry It was an evening dedicated to music, as some of the greatest contemporaries of Indian Classical music graced the occasion with their presence and enthralled Mumbaiites by playing along with Sivamani. Mahaleela comprises of 12 tracks, dedicated to poignant moments of his life and some moments that arose as he interacted with Indian classical greats.
The genesis of this album has its roots in an event where he lost all his music during a concert. Two years ago, he somehow overcame that loss and set his mind to capture some of the priceless music that he had. Combing previous recordings and video clips from his personal collection, he then set out on this journey called Mahaleela.
Some of the people who have helped him in the compilation of Mahaleela include Zakir Hussein, Viku Vinayak Ram, Louis Banks, Hariharan, Shankar Mahadevan, Leeladri Kumar, Naveen on the flute, Harmeet on keyboards and Steven Babloo. Amongst the singers Alma from Bosnia, Lomajin from Mongolia and Mahadevan have recorded for the track.
