Rhythm of Love: In conversation with Aosunep Jamir

It was during the 90’s when Aosunep Jamir’s love for rock music began to grow.

Aosunep who hails from Mokchung district is a government servant by profession and a music lover by passion.

He recalls his early years when he first got involved into music as a vocalist for a band.

Jamir was also adjudged the runners-up of Naga Idol 2007 after which he released an album ‘born free’ in the year 2008.

And after a decade, Jamir has recently released a single music video ‘Good Old Times’ dedicated to his loved ones and music fans.

However, Jamir who have come this far without any formal trainings says that have a formal training in any profession is important.

 Eastern Mirror today shares an insight into the 90’s musician.

Read on……….

 

 

EASTERN MIRROR: Lets start off with how your musical journey started?

Aosunep: I am originally from Mokokchung and I guess I won’t be wrong to say that Mokokchung was the music capital of Nagaland way back in the 80s and 90s. Growing up as a teen during the 90s the popularity of Rock music was at its peak and like any other wannabe rocker I too got caught up with this musical wave. I remember every ward or colony in the town having two or more bands during those times. I first got involved with music  during my 8th standard when I was asked to front a band. We started performing in local functions and churches, and this is how I started my humble musical journey.

 

EASTERN MIRROR: Your inspirations?

Aosunep: Apart from famous local bands during the 90s, my inspiration came from my seniors, especially my elder brother and his band. I always wanted to imitate their style, their singing, their living style etc.., which eventually prompted me to follow in their footsteps. Professionally I draw my inspiration from classic singers like Eric Martin from Mr. Big, Jon Bon Jovi , Steve Lee from Gotthard among others.

EASTERN MIRROR: How was the experience of being a part of the famous talent hunt ‘Naga Idol’ 2007? ….

Aosunep: Naga Idol was exciting. It was the greatest platform for me as an upcoming singer to promote myself. In fact I think it was a great platform for many well known singers today. Naga Idol was a great learning experience.

 

EASTERN MIRROR: Your debut album ‘Born Free’ was released a decade back…. And recently you have released your single video ‘Good Old times’ …. Why a sudden comeback?

Aosunep: (Laugh)..I won’t say it as a comeback. Wow I never realised it’s been a decade. Well music is always in my heart and soul. But I got settled down which has its own responsibility, moreover working as a government servant in the capital makes it very difficult to manage time and get seriously involved with much. The new song “Good old Times” is a long time coming. I always wanted to make a music video for myself to keep it as a souvenir of my musical journey,  at the same time share my music with my loved ones and my fans. But I guess it took me ten years to do that. Laugh

 

EASTERN MIRROR:  Have you had any formal training in composing or singing?

Aosunep: Everything musical about me is self taught. But I think having formal training is very important.

 

EASTERN MIRROR: Best stage that you have ever performed on…

Aosunep: I think of myself as a reclusive singer. I don’t give much importance on being on the limelight. But yes performing at the International Hornbill Festival couple of times was an awesome experience.

 

EASTERN MIRROR: Is music the companion that you wish to continue as a profession or?

Aosunep: I am a government servant by profession. But yes I want to continue writing songs and share my music to every music lover.

 

 EASTERN MIRROR: What are your main focuses when it comes to composing songs?

Aosunep: Like every songwriter, when it comes to composing songs, I look for an inspiration. One cannot write song without inspiration. When you have that, writing songs comes naturally.

 

EASTERN MIRROR: Any comments on the present musical scenario of the state?

Aosunep: Talent wise we are second to none. But in terms of pursuing music professionally I think we are still at the infant stage. But it is encouraging to know that our government has set up a separate department solely for music. It is doing a fantastic job and i hope it will give more physical and logistic support for our artist to grow in future also. And as an artist I would encourage all fellow musicians to make and promote more originals.

 

EASTERN MIRROR: Favourite quote.

Aosunep: Musically, I would like to quote my self- “Inspirational lyrics with quality music can move mountains”.