Renowned singer Tapan Chowdhury's musical career began in the 1970s. He was the vocalist of the band Souls. Eventually, he made his presence felt in the music scene as a solo singer. His romantic adhunik (modern) songs are still hugely popular though the artiste has been pretty much on a hiatus. It has been a few years since Tapan moved to the United States, though he visits Bangladesh occasionally. The Daily Star (TDS) caught up with the artiste who is currently in Dhaka.
TDS: How long will you be staying this time around?
Tapan: Can't say for certain right now. I went abroad to be closer to my son and if he calls tomorrow, I might take the next flight. My family means the most to me and I left my thriving career in Bangladesh to be with them. It is disappointing when no one understands it. Breaking something is easy; holding it together is the tough part.
TDS: Have you performed in Bangladesh since you returned?
Tapan: I did a show for Boishakhi Television, as well as pairing up with Kumar Bishwajit for a BTV programme. I've received other offers as well. I was away from the country for a long time. I hope to do lots of programmes. After all I am a man of music.
TDS: Tell us about your show with Kumar Bishwajit.
Tapan: The programme was called “Kotha-e O Gaan-e Kumar Bishwajit O Topon Chowdhury,” and we both sang and reminisced about the old times.
TDS: Local artistes tend to criticise the trend of expatriate musicians making brief returns to perform. What's your take on that?
Tapan: Music is now global. The British band Beatles made their mark through performing in America. A true artiste belongs to no specific country or time. An air ticket can take you over to any country in the world within 24 hours. Many musicians choose to stay -- for example in Chittagong or Bogra -- to be closer to their families… Pakistani musicians perform in India… The whole argument depends on the perspective.
TDS: How do you spend your time abroad?
Tapan: Most of my time is devoted to my son. I also travel across North America, performing at shows.
TDS: Do you feel like you've forsaken fame in Bangladesh to move abroad?
Tapan: It's not like I don't miss it. But like I said, I moved because of my son. You have to make sacrifices to achieve something.
TDS: What is your opinion on the newcomers in the music industry?
Tapan: I won't mention names, but many of the newbies are doing great. But making hit songs is not the same as growing as a singer. However, I have high hopes for our young singers. My advice to them is to continue to aim higher. The relationship between an artiste and his/her music needs to be nurtured for life.
TDS: Any disappointment surrounding music?
Tapan: I have and always will strive for good music from accomplished composers and lyricists. I think I have received more than I deserve; so no regrets at all.
TDS: Are there things you think you failed to achieve?
Tapan: I know that I have done little to help people. I love the fact that Momtaj is doing so much good work for the people of the country. There are many stars and superstars in the country, but Momtaj remains a rare example and inspiration.
TDS: Are you in touch with Bangladeshi artistes who have moved to North America?
Tapan: I maintain contact with most singers living there like Tulu, Chandan, Sabina Bari Lucky, Kaderi Kibria and others.
TDS: Working on any album during your stay?
Tapan: My plans include working on four albums. I will do a duet album with Shakila Zafar; the songs are being composed by Subir Nandi. A folk-based album by Arnob and a duet album with Kumar Bishwajit are also in the pipeline. I also want to do remixes of my own old hits.