10th June 2023,Mumbai: Renowned musician Mithoon has found himself grappling with an issue that has become all too familiar in the music industry – the incessant remakes of his hit song “Tum Hi Ho” from the film Aashiqui 2. While remaking classic songs has always been a topic of controversy, Mithoon is particularly irked by the lack of attention to detail displayed by YouTubers, influencers, and content producers who often produce subpar versions of his composition.
Losing track of the number of times his iconic song has been recreated in various renditions, Mithoon acknowledges that there is only so much control he can exert over these adaptations. Nevertheless, he vehemently disagrees with many of them, as they often fail to capture the essence and meticulousness of the original piece.
For Mithoon, “Tum Hi Ho” possesses a unique spirit and intricate detailing that should never be altered. While he refrains from delving into the legalities of licensing, he emphasizes the importance of acknowledging the original credits and giving them precedence before embarking on any reinterpretation. Moreover, Mithoon believes that the melody itself carries a sacred and holy quality that should remain undisturbed.
The musician goes on to explain that creating a song involves considering various factors to give it a distinct sound. He points out a specific word, “Kyunki,” in “Tum Hi Ho” and expresses his dismay at how it is often improperly sung in most covers. According to Mithoon, this word acts as a catalyst between the preceding line and the chorus, yet it is frequently overlooked or sung incorrectly. This disregard for the composition’s nuances further frustrates the composer, as he feels it tarnishes the integrity of his music.
When asked about his views on music remakes in general, Mithoon emphasizes that the subject has been discussed extensively. As both a listener and composer, he understands the profound Impact of original music. With the current abundance of unique content being released, Mithoon wholeheartedly supports the creation of new music that resonates with audiences. He cites examples like “Sanam Re,” “Aashiqui,” and “Kabir Singh” as successful ventures that brought forth original compositions. Consequently, he sees no personal need to engage in recreations unless there is a thematic reason driving the endeavor.
Mithoon’s frustrations with the countless remakes of “Tum Hi Ho” highlight the importance of preserving the essence and meticulousness of original compositions. As the music industry continues to evolve, the appreciation for originality and the creation of new, inspired content takes center stage. Mithoon’s hope remains firmly rooted in the belief that the pursuit of fresh music will continue to captivate listeners and inspire future generations of musicians.
-by Kashvi Gala