Singer Mano launches platform for fans to showcase talent

New Delhi, India Jul 10, 2026 ALN: Playback singer Mano has launched an innovative platform aimed at allowing fans to showcase their musical talents and receive mentorship. This initiative, named "Sing with Mano," will take place in Chennai this October, providing a unique opportunity for ordinary music lovers to perform alongside the celebrated artist. This initiative is not merely a performance opportunity; it embodies a deeper commitment to nurturing talent and fostering a community of music enthusiasts.

The concept of "Sing with Mano" is rooted in the idea that music is a universal language that transcends barriers and connects individuals from diverse backgrounds. By offering a platform where fans can perform, Mano is not only giving them a chance to shine but is also reinforcing the notion that everyone has a story and a voice worth sharing. This initiative aligns with a broader trend in the music industry where established artists are increasingly engaging with their fan base, creating more interactive and inclusive experiences.

During a recent event, Mano shared a touching moment when a couple, accompanied by their child, expressed how his song Nee Oru Kadhal Sangeetham from the film Nayakan played a pivotal role in their love story. This interaction reaffirmed his belief in the profound impact of music on people's lives. Such anecdotes highlight the emotional connections that songs can forge, becoming the soundtrack to significant life events for many individuals. This serves as a testament to the power of music as a medium for storytelling and emotional expression.

“It is not a competition,” Mano emphasized in a conversation with journalists. “The idea is to give ordinary music lovers, who may never otherwise get an opportunity to perform, a platform to sing.” Participants will have the freedom to choose a song of their choice, which Mano will assess for suitability to their voice. He will guide them through rehearsals and mentor them until they are ready for a performance. This mentorship aspect is crucial, as it not only helps participants refine their skills but also instills confidence in them, allowing them to express themselves more freely through music.

Reflecting on his experiences with fans, Mano recounted a memorable encounter with a group of bus drivers and conductors who shared that they regularly listened to his songs while driving. “It is touching to see how music becomes a companion in people’s everyday lives,” he remarked. This observation underscores the role of music in shaping daily experiences and the emotional landscape of individuals, often providing solace, joy, or motivation during mundane routines.

Born as Nagoor Babu, the singer adopted the stage name “Mano” at the suggestion of music director Ilaiyaraaja, who advised him to avoid confusion with another well-known singer, Nagoor E.M. Hanifa. Mano's journey into music began in childhood, influenced by a family of musicians who staged mythological dramas. “By the time I was six or seven, I knew all the characters and the songs we performed,” he recalled. This early exposure to music and performance not only honed his skills but also instilled a lifelong passion for the art form.

To illustrate his classical music grounding, Mano rendered a Telugu virutham. He trained under the renowned Carnatic vocalist Nedunuri Krishnamurthy, whose mentorship laid the foundation for his musical career. Classical training is often a significant aspect of a musician's development, providing them with the technical skills and theoretical knowledge necessary to excel in various musical genres. Mano's dedication to mastering Carnatic music has played a pivotal role in shaping his unique sound and versatility as an artist.

In the film industry, Mano credited his training in Carnatic music and his two-and-a-half-year experience with Tamil composer M.S. Viswanathan for his early success. “Working with him (MSV), I learnt how to write notes and the different styles of taalam. All this was very useful as my musical career progressed,” he stated, acknowledging his long-standing relationship with Telugu composer K. Chakravarthy. This collaboration with established composers not only provided Mano with valuable insights into the industry but also helped him build a robust network that would support his career growth.

Mano fondly recalled recording his debut track for Ilaiyaraaja, Then Mozhi, from Solla Thudikuthu Manasu. “Raja sir taught me the ‘zha’ letter, which didn’t come to me naturally then,” he shared, reflecting on his extensive musical journey with the Isaignani, including the film Enga Ooru Paatukaaran, where he sang all the songs. “It was unforgettable. I’m not sure how many singers would have such an experience,” he added. Such experiences not only highlight the challenges faced by artists but also the personal growth that comes from overcoming them, reinforcing the idea that perseverance is key in the competitive music industry.

During the conversation, Mano also addressed the frequent comparisons drawn between his voice and that of the legendary S.P. Balasubrahmanyam. “In a song in Jallikattu, both SPB and I sang together, and I remember Raja sir jokingly asking us who sang which line,” he recalled, celebrating his versatility across various songs, including Sirpy’s Azhagiya Laila and A.R. Rahman’s Muqqabula. Such comparisons, while flattering, can also be burdensome for artists, as they often carry the weight of expectations that come with being likened to legendary figures in the industry.

“Singing in commercial films makes you go to a different zone. I grew up as a singer alongside the likes of SPB, Yesudas, and Malaysia Vasudevan – who were giants in the industry – and am grateful to the many composers who gave me opportunities in their projects,” he remarked. This acknowledgment of his contemporaries reflects a sense of camaraderie within the music community, where artists often support and uplift one another despite the competitive nature of the industry.

Apart from his singing prowess, Mano is also a talented dubbing artist, having lent his voice to several Rajinikanth films in Telugu. This versatility showcases his adaptability as an artist, allowing him to explore different facets of the entertainment industry. Currently, he is leading a mentorship program aimed at providing aspiring singers with stage opportunities, with the Chennai leg scheduled for September this year. “I have seen many ups and downs in life, and have realized that constant practice and passion are the routes to success. The younger generation craves instant gratification, but I feel that the voice needs daily practice and rigour,” he concluded. This statement encapsulates the essence of Mano's philosophy towards music and success, emphasizing the importance of dedication and hard work in achieving one's dreams.