Topu

Rasheduddin Ahmed Topu, widely known to young music lovers as “Topu”, is one of the most promising artistes in the contemporary music scene. Vocalist of the band 'Yaatri', Topu has carved a niche for himself with hummable melodies like Ek paye nupur and more. Recently, The Daily Star caught up with the musician.
Topu's foray into the world of music began at an early age. “My sister had a harmonium and I loved playing it,” he recalls. “During my school days my interest in music grew.” According to the artiste, “I used to compose songs and set them to tune on my guitar.”
Topu drew inspiration from his surroundings. “On a lonely afternoon or a glum evening, as the day changed its hues, I used to sit and observe everything around me and that would inspire me to write,” says Topu.
However the real turning point for Topu was his college days. “While studying at Barisal Cadet College I was asked to perform at a programme. I rendered of one of my songs Proshno. The response from the audience was great!”
“That experience gave me the boost I needed as an artiste,” he says.
After college, Topu got enrolled in North South University (NSU). It was there that he met up with Emran and formed the band 'Yaatri'. NSU was an important chapter in Topu's life.
“Budding romance, unrequited love and other aspects of life inspired me to write. I became a member of the North South University Sanskritik Sangathan (NSUSS). Emran and I met, and we were fortunate to get an opportunity to demonstrate our talents soon. Tony bhai (drummer of the band 'Black') was coordinating a mixed album, Shopnochura and we wanted to take part. So we formed 'Yaatri'.”
The initial line up of the band had Bipu (lead guitar), Mitu (bass), Emran (keyboard) and Topu (vocals). Tony on drums played with the band.
Shopnochura was released towards the end of 2004. Yaatri's song Ek paye nupur received an encouraging response and the next year Tony again asked Yaatri to record another song for Shopnochura II. It was their work in this follow-up album that catapulted them to public attention; the song Ekta gopon kotha was huge hit. After that there was no turning back. The success helped them to get a contract with G Series for their debut album Daak.
Daak was released in October 2006. The album featuring songs – Ei ki beshi na, Bhalobasha shunechhi ja, Ojana mon-e, Ke daakey, Miththey prem, Jaatri, Ektu porey and more -- was a hit.
All songs in the album were written by Topu (except for Jitso).
Other songs by Yaatri are: Jonmechhi tai from the mixed album Shopnochura 3 and Chetona in the another mixed album Underground 2.
Topu's most recent venture is Bondhu bhabo ki? -- his first solo album (produced by G- Series) released early this year. All songs in the album are written by Topu. Fuad Al Muktadir, one of the most popular musicians now, has composed the songs. From the album, Meye has become a hit as well as Banglar gaan and Shottobadi ami.
Talking about going solo, the artiste says, “After the success of Daak, I wanted to do something new. Fuad bhai is one of the best composers now, so I decided to bring out an album with him.”
Regarding upcoming projects, Topy says, “I'm looking forward to complete an album by the end of this year.”