11 Underrated Ilayaraja Songs: Beyond the Hits

Hey music lovers and fellow DJs, it’s TBone here from Level Tunes! Today, I’m super excited to share something special with you – a list of 11 underrated gems from the legendary Ilayaraja.

Why am I doing this?

Well, as a DJ and a hardcore music fan, I’ve always been fascinated by the depth and diversity in Ilayaraja’s compositions. His music has a soulful melody that transcends time, but some of his tracks, unfortunately, don’t get the limelight they deserve.

So, I dove deep into his discography to bring you these hidden treasures. Whether you’re spinning at a club or just chilling at home, these tracks are going to add some serious flavor to your playlist. Let’s embark on this musical journey and rediscover the genius of Ilayaraja!

Here are the underrated Ilayaraja songs that you can check out:

List Of Underrated Ilayaraja Songs

Underrated Ilayaraja songs in a list format:

1. “Andhi Mazhai Pozhigirathu”

From the album “Raja Paarvai” (1981), released under the label ECHO Records, “Andhi Mazhai Pozhigirathu” is a mesmerizing number. What makes this song a hidden gem is its blend of classical and modern elements, creating a timeless feel. Ilayaraja’s use of the flute and violin in harmony with S.P. Balasubrahmanyam and S. Janaki’s vocals creates an enchanting atmosphere. It’s a track that feels both nostalgic and fresh, a testament to Ilayaraja’s genius in composing music that appeals across generations.

2. “Poove Sempoove”

Featured in the album “Solla Thudikuthu Manasu” (1988) and released by Ilaiyaraaja Music, “Poove Sempoove” is a soul-stirring ballad. I chose this song for its heart-touching lyrics and the beautiful rendition by K.J. Yesudas. The way Ilayaraja combines orchestral elements with traditional Indian instruments in this track is nothing short of magical. It’s a song that resonates with the emotions of love and longing, making it a timeless classic that deserves more recognition.

3. “Ninnukori Varanam”

This track from the album “Agni Natchathiram” (1988), under the AGI Music label, showcases Ilayaraja’s versatility. “Ninnukori Varanam” stands out for its fusion of classical Carnatic music with a contemporary touch. The song is a beautiful rendition by Chitra, whose voice perfectly captures the essence of the composition. The use of the veena and mridangam gives it an authentic South Indian classical feel. It’s a perfect example of Ilayaraja’s ability to bridge traditional and modern music.

4. “Poomalaiye Thol Serava”

From “Pagal Nilavu” (1985), released by Echo Records, “Poomalaiye Thol Serava” is a duet that captures the essence of romance. Ilayaraja’s composition, combined with the voices of S.P. Balasubrahmanyam and S. Janaki, creates a dreamy and enchanting melody. The use of synthesizers alongside traditional Indian instruments makes this song a unique blend of different musical styles. It’s a track that showcases Ilayaraja’s talent in creating romantic melodies that stay with you long after the song ends.

5. “Aasai Nooru Vagai”

This upbeat number from “Adutha Vaarisu” (1983), under the ECHO Records label, is a testament to Ilayaraja’s versatility. “Aasai Nooru Vagai” is known for its energetic rhythm and catchy lyrics. The vibrant vocals by Malaysia Vasudevan add a lively character to the song. Ilayaraja’s use of electronic beats mixed with traditional rhythms creates a festive atmosphere that makes you want to dance. It’s a song that brings out the joy and excitement in life, making it a must-listen for anyone looking to uplift their spirits.

6. “Mandram Vandha Thendralukku”

From the album “Mouna Ragam” (1986), released by Ilaiyaraaja Music, this song is a beautiful blend of melancholy and melody. “Mandram Vandha Thendralukku” is sung by S.P. Balasubrahmanyam, whose emot

ive voice captures the essence of longing and introspection. Ilayaraja’s composition, with its subtle use of the guitar and flute, adds a layer of depth that makes this track a hauntingly beautiful experience. The song stands out for its ability to convey deep emotions through its simple yet powerful arrangement. It’s a perfect example of how Ilayaraja can evoke feelings through his music, making it a must-listen for those who appreciate the emotive power of songs.

7. “Kanmani Anbodu Kadhalan”

This gem from the album “Guna” (1991), released under Raaj Kamal Films International, is a testament to Ilayaraja’s genius in creating soulful love songs. Sung by Kamal Haasan and S. Janaki, “Kanmani Anbodu Kadhalan” captures the essence of innocent love. The song’s simplicity, coupled with the heartfelt lyrics, creates a deeply touching melody. The use of traditional Indian instruments alongside modern orchestration results in a timeless track that resonates with listeners of all ages. It’s a song that exemplifies the purity of love, making it an underrated masterpiece in Ilayaraja’s oeuvre.

8. “Valai Osai”

From the album “Sathya” (1988), released by Ilaiyaraaja Music, “Valai Osai” is a vibrant and lively track. This song, sung by S.P. Balasubrahmanyam and Lata Mangeshkar, showcases Ilayaraja’s skill in creating upbeat and catchy tunes. The song’s energetic beats and the lively orchestration make it a perfect track for celebrations. The blend of Western and Indian musical elements exemplifies Ilayaraja’s ability to fuse different styles seamlessly. It’s a song that brings a smile to your face, making it a hidden gem in the world of Tamil cinema music.

9. “En Iniya Pon Nilave”

Featured in the album “Moodu Pani” (1980), under the label ECHO Records, this song is a serene and soothing melody. Sung by K.J. Yesudas, “En Iniya Pon Nilave” stands out for its lyrical beauty and the gentle arrangement of instruments. Ilayaraja’s composition, with its mellow guitar strums and soft percussion, creates a dreamlike ambiance. It’s a track that transports you to a peaceful place, making it a perfect choice for those moments of reflection and relaxation. The song’s timeless appeal lies in its ability to soothe the soul.

10. “Thendral Vanthu Theendum Pothu”

From “Avatharam” (1995), released by Ilaiyaraaja Music, this song is a beautiful blend of classical and folk elements. Sung by Ilaiyaraaja and S. Janaki, “Thendral Vanthu Theendum Pothu” is known for its melodious tune and heartfelt lyrics. The use of traditional instruments like the veena and the mridangam adds an authentic touch to the track. Ilayaraja’s skill in crafting a melody that touches the heart is evident in this song. It’s a track that exemplifies the depth and richness of Tamil music, making it a hidden treasure in Ilayaraja’s collection.

11. “Raaja Raajathi”

This energetic number from the album “Agni Natchathiram” (1988), under AGI Music, showcases Ilayaraja’s flair for creating foot-tapping music. Sung by Ilaiyaraaja himself, “Raaja Raajathi” is a song that exudes joy and vibrancy. The upbeat rhythm and the catchy chorus make it

an irresistible dance number. What sets this song apart is its blend of electronic music with traditional Indian rhythms, creating a sound that’s both modern and rooted in culture. Ilayaraja’s voice adds a unique charm to the song, making it stand out in his discography. It’s a track that encapsulates the celebratory spirit of Tamil music and is a must-have for any party playlist.

Fun Facts: Underrated Ilayaraja Songs

1. “Andhi Mazhai Pozhigirathu”

• Fact: The song “Andhi Mazhai Pozhigirathu” from the movie “Raja Paarvai” was Ilayaraja’s first foray into using a live orchestra for recording, marking a significant shift in Tamil cinema music. This experimentation with live orchestration set a new standard in the industry and showcased Ilayaraja’s innovative approach to music composition.

2. “Poove Sempoove”

• Fact: “Poove Sempoove” is renowned for K.J. Yesudas’s soulful rendition. Interestingly, the song’s recording was completed in a single take, a testament to Yesudas’s exceptional vocal skills and Ilayaraja’s confidence in his singers. This song remains a favorite for many aspiring singers for its vocal complexity and emotional depth.

3. “Ninnukori Varanam”

• Fact: The song “Ninnukori Varanam” is an adaption of Ilayaraja’s own composition from a Telugu film. What makes it unique is its seamless blend of Western and Carnatic music elements, showcasing Ilayaraja’s versatility in adapting his work across languages and music styles while maintaining the song’s original charm.

4. “Poomalaiye Thol Serava”

• Fact: “Poomalaiye Thol Serava” is known for its use of the ‘Nadaswaram’, a traditional South Indian wind instrument, typically used in ceremonies. The incorporation of this instrument in a romantic film song was quite unconventional at the time and exemplifies Ilayaraja’s innovative approach to fusion music.

5. “Aasai Nooru Vagai”

• Fact: This energetic song gained a cult following for its use in the film “Adutha Vaarisu,” but what many don’t know is that it became a popular number in international markets, especially in Southeast Asia. The song’s catchy beat and lively rhythm made it a hit in nightclubs outside India, showcasing Ilayaraja’s global appeal.

6. “Mandram Vandha Thendralukku”

• Fact: “Mandram Vandha Thendralukku” is often praised for its lyrical depth, written by the renowned poet Vaali. The combination of Vaali’s poignant lyrics and Ilayaraja’s melodious composition created a song that is not only musically rich but also lyrically profound, resonating deeply with listeners.

7. “Kanmani Anbodu Kadhalan”

• Fact: Interestingly, Kamal Haasan, the lead actor of the film “Guna,” lent his voice for “Kanmani Anbodu Kadhalan,” showcasing his versatility as an artist. This song is a rare instance where an actor’s vocal performance matches the emotional intensity of his on-screen portrayal, adding a layer of authenticity to the film and its soundtrack.

8. “Valai Osai”

• Fact: “Valai Osai” is notable for featuring the voice of legendary Indian playback singer Lata Mangeshkar, a rare occurrence in Tamil cinema. Her collaboration with Ilayaraja for this song was a significant moment in the industry, bridging the gap between Bollywood and Kollywood music.

9. “En Iniya Pon Nilave”

• Fact: “En Iniya Pon Nilave” is often hailed as a masterpiece in minimalistic composition. The song’s simple yet captivating guitar riff, played by Ilayaraja himself, became an iconic sound, inspiring many guitarists and musicians in India to explore the fusion of Western and Indian musical styles.

10. “Thendral Vanthu Theendum Pothu”

• Fact: This song is unique for its use of folk elements in

a modern cinematic context. The way Ilayaraja incorporated folk rhythms and melodies into a film song was groundbreaking at the time. It showcased his deep understanding of traditional music and his ability to adapt it for contemporary audiences. This song is often celebrated for bringing folk music to the forefront of Tamil cinema.

11. “Raaja Raajathi”

• Fact: “Raaja Raajathi” is a testament to Ilayaraja’s skill in creating catchy and memorable music hooks. The song’s opening music hook became so popular that it was often used as a ringtone and caller tune, a significant achievement in the pre-smartphone era. This song’s popularity extended beyond the film, becoming a standalone hit in its own right.

And there you have it, folks – a musical journey through the underrated yet extraordinary world of Ilayaraja’s compositions. Each song tells a story, each melody sings a poem. Dive into these timeless tracks and let the magic of Ilayaraja’s music enchant your soul. Until next time, keep grooving!

Thanks for reading.

TBone