A Self-Taught Icon Who Transcended Musical Boundaries
Hyderabad: Sripathi Panditaradhyula Balasubrahmanyam, affectionately known as SPB or Balu, remains a towering figure in Indian playback singing, with a career that spanned over five decades. He is celebrated as one of the greatest singers in Indian history, having recorded over 50,000 songs across 16 languages, showcasing his incredible versatility.
Born on June 4, 1946, in Nellore, Andhra Pradesh, SPB hailed from a musically rich family. Initially pursuing engineering, his passion for music led him to self-study musical notations, ultimately shifting his focus entirely to a career in singing. His playback journey began in 1966 with the Telugu film Sri Sri Sri Maryada Ramanna, under the mentorship of S. P. Kodandapani.
SPB’s prolific output is legendary. He holds the Guinness World Record for the highest number of songs recorded by a single singer, often recording 15 to 20 songs a day. On February 8, 1981, he set an impressive record by recording 28 Kannada songs in a single day. His collaborations with composers like Anand Milind further exemplified his work ethic and dedication.
In Bollywood, SPB’s partnership with Salman Khan became iconic, particularly with the song “Dil Deewana” from Maine Pyar Kiya, which won him a Filmfare Award. His duet with Lata Mangeshkar, “Didi Tera Devar Deewana,” remains a cherished classic, symbolizing the enduring nature of his contributions.
Despite facing severe health challenges after testing positive for COVID-19 on August 5, 2020, SPB’s spirit remained strong until his passing on September 25, 2020. He was laid to rest with state honors at his farmhouse in Thamaraipaakkam, Thiruvallur district.
Throughout his illustrious career, SPB received numerous accolades, including six National Film Awards for Best Male Playback Singer and multiple state awards. His contributions were recognized with the Padma Shri in 2001, Padma Bhushan in 2011, and the Padma Vibhushan posthumously in 2021.
SP Balasubrahmanyam’s influence on Indian music is immeasurable. As a self-taught artist who rose to prominence through sheer talent and determination, his legacy continues to inspire generations of musicians and music lovers alike. His voice will forever echo in the hearts of those who cherish his work.
