Ready for Rapture?

For many, May 21, 2011, was proclaimed as the day of the Rapture: When Jesus would call upon his followers on earth. That prophecy might not have come true but singer Nadia Ali's Rapture will rock a suburban nightclub tonight

She is stunning alright! But few in the city will recognise Nadia Ali. That is, till someone plays her hit single Rapture and points at her saying: the honeyed voice in the song belongs to her. The 2001 hit was remixed by the likes of Deep Dish and Armin van Buuren, catapulting Nadia from being just another singer-songwriter to an Electronic Dance Music empress whose hit number is still played in clubs worldwide. A Grammy nomination followed for the Pakistani-American songstress who has built a decade-long commercially successful career. On her first trip to the city, Nadia will unleash her magic at Trilogy, a nightclub with maniacal ceiling lights we absolutely love. We caught up with Nadia to know more about her journey so far.

What thoughts ran in your mind when you first heard of your Grammy nomination?
I was at home when I heard that I had been nominated for my song Fantasy -- the feeling when you hear such kind of news is surreal. I was shocked and elated beyond belief.

How is it being a Pakistani-American in these times?
I was a kid when we moved to New York from Pakistan. I speak Urdu and Hindi at home. I am happy to be ethnic and feel blessed.

What is it about India that most excites you?
I've been to India only once for the Sunburn Music Festival. My perception is that Indians have a great energy and appreciation for my genre of music.

You write your own music. Where does your inspiration come from?
Moving from Pakistan to New York gave me a rich canvas of experience and culture from which to draw upon. My home was often filled with a wide variety of popular music from varied and diverse cultures. Caribbean, Latin, Indian, Hip Hop and even Grunge music were staples on my playlist through my teen years. As a result of the cross-cultural exposure and belonging to two worlds, a strong tie was formed, and soon, without conscious knowledge a musical fusion had begun. I believe in music that calms and feeds the soul. Of course, I love dance music but I also have a great affinity for acoustic styles. I love recording to a simple guitar or piano line.

What part of your work do you enjoy the most?
I think my biggest achievement is that I've been able to continue to record music as an independent artist for over 10 years. It's incredible that I have seen so much of the world and performed in front of crowds, where a majority of the people cannot even speak English but sing back my lyrics to me. Also, Rapture will always be close to my heart, as it was my first hit.

On Tonight, 10 pm onwards. At Trilogy, Hotel Sea Princess, 969, Juhu Tara Road, Juhu. Call 26469689 ENTRY Rs 1,500 (stag), Rs 2,500 (couple)