K-pop band TRI.BE

What goes into writing for such projects, we ask. A lot of drafts is the lyricist’s quick reply. Vermaa admits that the lyricist has the simpler task of adapting the song and its ethos to an Indian audience, while the composer handles the more challenging musical element. “We worked through several drafts of the lyrics with Malik and TRI.BE involved in the process,” he reveals. Ask about any culture clashes, and the lyricist says, “Composers, both Indian and international, are looking for something that catches the attention of the listener while keeping to their style. They understand and adapt to the situation.”

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Allu Arjun’s presence in the song meant the use of the Telugu hookline, Memu aagamu (We won’t stop) took precedence. Vermaa had to craft lyrics in Hindi that matched the rhythm of the words. 

Kunaal Vermaa

The challenge went up another notch when the Korean band made a few more changes to their song, and Vermaa had to adapt promptly. “The key is to always be prepared. You don’t often get an opportunity to interact or work with international names. You can’t complain about it,” he points out. It took a two-hour long Zoom session with all of the members to finalise the lyrics in time, Vermaa laughs. 

With the video already hitting 30 million views on YouTube, the success is evident. But it is the experience that the lyricist enjoys. “Musical experiences are different and there is no end to the surprises that come your way. But such experiences help to build your own lyrical style,” he concludes.

Log on to Memu aagamu on Spotify; YouTube