Asha Bhosle, is a name that is self-explanatory. A name that is backed by a legacy of musical talent. Her name has become synonymous with hit numbers from the past, and her skill and voice are proof of vocal miracles. She has flawlessly aced every genre right from dance numbers to ghazals and her music has stood the test of time. Since the 40s, she had promoted an inatched diversity with her music in terms of language and skill. Even today’s she's one of India’s most adored artists. With more than 11,000 songs in 20 plus languages, there's an Asha Bhosle song for every occasion! So on the occasion of her 89th birthday, we take a look at the top 10 of the singer’s best songs that can take your retro night to the next level! Read on and don't forget to add these throwback numbers to your playlist immediately!
Aaiye meherbaan (Howrah Bridge 1958)
Composer: OP Nayyar
Lyrics: Hasrat Jaipuri
Aaiye Meherbaan is from the 1958 iconic movie Howrah Bridge, and it continues to be one of the most sensuous songs till date. The song features the beautiful Madhubala, and the lyrics, and the music is nothing short of perfect! The ethereal beauty Madhubala is the song's subject, and it is set in a gorgeous setting. Then, as Madhubala walks down the stairs, the classic song by Asha Bhosle starts to play, uplifting the mood of the song. The song begins with the musicians performing a variety of instruments, including the cello, violin, piano, banjo, and the whole musical aura is something special.
Abhi Na Jao Chodkar - Hum Dono (1961)
Composer: Jaidev
Lyrics: Sahir Ludhianvi
Abhi Na Jai Chodkar is a beautiful track from Hum Dono that was released in 1961. It features the mesmerising vocals of Asha Bhosle, Mohammed Rafi, and the chemistry between Dev Anand and Sadhana, is still a fan favourite decades later. The song is a magical collaboration between composer Jaidev and Asha Bhosle, and the tune is truly captivating. The musical vibe holds the listeners, and urges them to put thought into the lyrics. The whole song is a work of art and perfect for when you're in the mood to reminisce.
In Aankhon Ki Masti Ke (Umrao Jaan 1981)
Composer: Khayyam
Lyrics: Shahryar
In aankhon ki masti is a traditional ghazal composed by Khayyam, and sung by Asha Bhosle. Her rendition is demonstrative of her wide range. She proved that she is capable of doing all kinds of songs and not simply peppy, dance numbers. Featured in 1981 hit movie, Umrao Jaan, the song featured Rekha as Umrao Jaan, the film's titular character and has become almost synonymous with her aura.
Dum Maaro Dum (Hare Rama Hare Krishna 1971)
Composer: RD Burman
Lyrics: Anand Bakshi
Dum Maro Dum is one of the most iconic party songs, created in a time where it was revolutionary for the music scene. RD Burman and Asha Bhosle set the trend for all party numbers to come. Asha Bhosle gave her best to the song, with her voice doing complete justice to the octaves and completely delivering the required feel of youth and freedom. Featured in the movie Hare Rama Hare Krishna starring Dev Anand and Zeenat Aman, both the song and film remain relevant in pop culture even today. And a large part of the credit for this goes to Asha Bhosle's rendition of the song. Even though the song has been recreated several times since the original, Asha’s Bhosle and RD Burman’s version remains as iconic as ever.
Ye Mera Dil (Don 1978)
Composer: Kalyanji-Anandji
Lyrics: Indeevar
Helen and Asha Bhosle collaborated for some great numbers, but this is said to be the most famous one. The song has Helen trying to woo a casual Amitabh Bachchan. But more than the visual creations, it's Asha Bhosle’s poignant yet beautiful voice that gets to you. Even after all these years, the tune and vocals are stuck in our memory. With this song Asha Bhosle also proved her versatility once again. Asha Bhosle captured the nation and the people’s imagination with this one, making sure it left its mark.
Piya Tu Ab To Aaja (Caravan 1971)
Composer: RD Burman
Lyrics: Majrooh Sultanpuri
Another Helen and Asha Bhosle number, this song is from the 1971 movie Caravan and has been a party hit since the time it was released. It has a hit of poignancy and yet continues to be a fast paced, quirky dance number rendered expertly by Asha Bhosle. Not only will this song continue to be iconic for being a collaboration between some of the greatest talents including RD Burman, Asha Bhosle and Helen, but also for its catchy tune that has been etched in our minds.
Parde Mein Rehne Do (Shikar 1968)
Composer: Shankar Jaikishan
Lyrics: Hasrat Jaipuri
Parde Mein Rehne Do is a dance piece, from the 1968 Asha Parekh, Dharmendra, and Sanjeev Kumar film Shikar. It has an Arabic flavour, and Asha fits her voice to the delicacy of the language beautifully. This song, performed by Ashaji, became a tremendous hit because of its out of the box nature and creative tune. The Arabic-tuned ballad earned Asha Bhosle the Filmfare Award for Best Female Playback Singer.
Chura Liya Hai Tumne (Yaadon Ki Baaraat 1973)
Composer: R. D. Burman
Lyrics: Majrooh Sultanpuri
The 1973 film Yaadon Ki Baarat gave all lovestruck souls a song they could hold on to, called Chura Liya Hai Tumne. Asha Bhosle’s voice plays a vital role in many different love stories, and conveys many messages of lover’s all over the word. The song is also a collaboration between some of the biggest musical maestros including RD Burman, Asha Bhosle, and Mohammed Rafi. Fans cannot help but remember and ponder over the happy memories of that time as they listen to the sweet song.
Aao Na, Gale Laga Lo Na (Mere Jeevan Saathi 1972)
Composer: R.D. Burman
Lyrics: Majrooh Sultanpuri
Again, on the list we have a Helen number, sung by Asha Bhosle. By this time, Asha Bhosle became so accustomed to singing Helen's dance numbers that the audience almost believed it was Helen herself singing them. They became almost synonymous with each other, and the soundtrack became almost evergreen. The song was from Mere Jeevan Saathi l, a 1972 Indian film, which became popular especially for its album, especially this song.
Yeh Ladka Hai Allah - (Hum Kisise Kum Naheen 1977)
Composer: R. D. Burman
Lyrics: Majrooh Sultanpuri
A number that became an iconic representation for youth relationships- it perfectly describes the joy of falling in love and realisation or the lack of it! The song, performed masterfully by Asha Bhosle and Mohammed Rafi, brings back memories of everyone’s first romance. It’s from the 1977 Bollywood movie Hum Kisise Kum Naheen and featured Rishi Kapoor and Kajal Kiran in the music video. Even though numerous other musicians have remixed and sampled it. The song was popular in the 1970s and truly developed a cult following among music lovers all over India.
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