Memorable humming often defines a song, acting as an emotional cue for listeners. In the realm of Tamil cinema, humming serves not just as a filler but as a potent storytelling tool. This article focuses on the unique humming sound in "Poo Pookkum Maasam" from the film Varusham 16, exploring its context, meaning, and the innovative use of humming by composer Ilaiyaraaja.
Understanding Humming in Tamil Film Music
Humming is prevalent in Tamil film songs, often featuring various patterns like "la la la," "mm," or "aa." Each style conveys distinct emotions:
Joyful and Light: Patterns like "la la la" typically indicate happiness or celebration.
Longing or Sadness: Sounds like "mm" might express deeper feelings of longing.
Humming enhances song structure by serving as intros, interludes, or outros, adding layers of meaning.
"Poo Pookkum Maasam" and its Context
Varusham 16 features a vibrant story revolving around characters played by Kushboo and Karthik. "Poo Pookkum Maasam" appears during a pivotal moment when the heroine reveals her love, setting the emotional tone for the scene.
This song incorporates dual humming elements: the "ooh" and the "mm." Each serves a unique purpose, enhancing the emotional landscape of the narrative.
Decoding the "Ooh" Humming
The "ooh" in "Poo Pookkum Maasam" stands out from conventional humming. Its distinct sound elicits a strong emotional response from listeners. This humming signifies the excitement of budding love and infatuation, mirroring the characters' feelings.
Ilaiyaraaja effectively captures this emotional complexity through his innovative approach, using humming to deepen the connection between the audience and the story.
View the video that explains this here:
Humming Techniques and Raja's Style
Ilaiyaraaja’s choices in humming patterns are intentional. For instance, he selects styles that match the song’s mood:
Romantic Scenes: Lively "la la" sounds often accompany romantic passages, creating a joyful atmosphere.
Deeper Emotions: More subdued "ooh" or "mm" notes can highlight longing and desire.
Raja's compositions reveal Western influences alongside traditional styles, enriching Tamil film music. His unique use of humming distinguishes him from other composers, adding layers of emotion to his songs.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the analysis of humming in Tamil film music offers insights into its emotional depth. The specific use of "ooh" in "Poo Pookkum Maasam" showcases Raja's creative prowess and his ability to imbue songs with emotion. His legacy in Tamil cinema is profound, with humming serving as a metaphorical bridge to the audience's heart.
Share your favorite Tamil songs featuring unique humming! Let's celebrate the melodic treasures of our film music heritage.
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