Rabbi Shergill Says Lyrics Became “Secondary” After A.R. Rahman’s Arrival, Sparks Industry Debate

Mumbai: Singer-songwriter Rabbi Shergill, best known for iconic tracks such as Bulla Ki Jaana and Challa, has sparked fresh discussion in the music fraternity after sharing his views on the changing role of lyrics in Hindi cinema, particularly following the rise of music maestro A.R. Rahman.

In a recent interaction, Shergill praised Rahman’s genius and global stature but observed that after Rahman’s entry into Hindi film music, lyrics gradually began to take a backseat to sound, composition and sonic texture. According to Shergill, this shift marked a broader change in how Hindi film music was being approached and consumed.

Clarifying his stance, Shergill said that his comments were not meant as criticism of Rahman. He noted that Hindi is not Rahman’s primary language and that the composer may not fully grasp the linguistic nuances of the language in the way native speakers or lyricists do. Shergill emphasised that the evolution was more structural than personal, shaped by changing aesthetics, technology and audience preferences.

“A.R. Rahman is a genius,” Shergill reportedly said, adding that the composer’s focus has always been on soundscapes and musical innovation. However, he pointed out that this sonic-first approach may have contributed to lyrics becoming less central in mainstream Hindi cinema over time.

Shergill’s remarks have triggered debate across social media and within industry circles, with opinions divided. While some agree that Hindi film music has increasingly prioritised production, hooks and global appeal over lyrical depth, others argue that Rahman’s work has also featured powerful writing, citing collaborations with poets and lyricists like Gulzar, Irshad Kamil and Mehboob.

The conversation also comes at a time when the Hindi film music industry is undergoing rapid transformation, with streaming platforms, shorter attention spans and genre-blending influencing how songs are composed and marketed. Many industry insiders believe the role of the lyricist has changed rather than diminished, adapting to new formats and listening habits.

As the discussion continues, Shergill’s comments have reopened an important cultural question: in an era dominated by sound design and instant virality, where do words stand in the future of Hindi film music?