Nothing like some Illayaraaja to kickstart a long weekend! Here are a few of our favourite covers of the Isaignani’s best work.
Rakkama Kaiya Thattu
The best thing about Thalapathi (other than Rajinikanth’s magnificence) is Illayaraaja’s music. This upbeat number was done instrumental justice by Orfeo Band.
Inji Iduppazhaga
This S Janaki classic has been covered so many times, but we had a hard time finding a rendition that tugged at our hearts like Maalavika Sundar did. Her raw, rich voice is everything this tune needs.
Ennai Thaalata Varuvaalo
Diluckshan Jayaratnam is no stranger to Tamil-Youtube-cover-holics. His ability to reach those high notes leave the listener yearning for more. This often forgotten Illayaraaja hit is one that he sings brilliantly.
Acapella Medley
The king of Tamil acapella medleys, Singaporean Pravin Saivi blew our minds away with this performance of his, alongside Maalavika Sundar. The weak recording doesn’t alter the amazement an Illayaraaja fan will feel at this composition.
Kanmani Anbodu Kaadhalan
Manithar unarndha kolla idhu manitha kaadhal alla! Adhaiyum thaandi punithamaanathu! This mad love story, Guna is remembered by Isaignani’s beautifully carved our song, Kanmani Anbodu Kaadhalan. We enjoyed this rendition of the tune.
Illayaraaja Medley
There is no way we would make a list of Illayaraaja covers and not include this medley by Thaikkudam Bridge. The beginning of the song is enough to pull the listener into another dimension, with Thendral Vanthu Theendu. Oh, Illayaraaja.
Of course, it goes without saying that no cover can match the Isaignani’s eminence. But it is fantastic to see the amount of talent aspiring to it!
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