"I feel that it is important that the larger audience is able to relate to your work and after all the effort that has been put in, you do want your album to be liked".

She's better known for the track, Aika Dajiba, with which she burst onto the Indipop scene over two years ago, but Vaishali Samant has been singing since the tender age of eight.

Trained in classical music, Samant, who has lent her voice for many remixes, Hindi movie songs and jingles, is now back with her second album 'V'. Ghotala, a track from the album, which she has composed and written, is currently making waves among the Indian audience.

In conversation with Radio and Music.com's Esha Birnur, Vaishali Samant shares her experiences and aspirations.

Where do you draw your inspiration from?
I have been listening to classical music since I was a child, and have also been trained in it. I have been particularly fond of artistes like Bappi Da, Mukesh, R D Burman, Runa Laila and Ghulam Ali. ABBA and Boney M were the bands I listened to most frequently.

Since when have you been singing?
I have been singing for the past twelve years, although I took it seriously when I was in college, where I would take an active part in fests and events. While I was in College I got the opportunity to go to a studio and sing, and my experience there overwhelmed me! I have not looked back since then.

Which was your first big break?
If you look at my professional career, then I would say that it began in 1992 at the studio, Vani which is in Worli, Mumbai. But I consider Aika Dajiba as my first big break as this was when I positioned myself as an artiste with my own identity. I have been in the industry for close to six years doing playback singing which I enjoyed, but I felt the need to do something on my own.

To me, the artiste is important and the freedom to experiment and do what you feel is right is of prime importance. But it is necessary to keep in mind that with all this, comes great responsibility as well.

Tell us something about your latest album 'V'.
The album has seven tracks, of which Ghotala is on air now on various music channels. The other tracks inlcude Bedardi Balma, a Euro trance track, Mera India which is a patriotic number, and Mahiya which is a Punjabi song.

I have tried to provide a variety so that there is something for everyone. I feel that it is important that the larger audience is able to relate to your work and after all the effort that has been put in, you do want your album to be liked.

What inspired this album?
I wanted to try something new while trying to keep in sync with today's pop trend, keeping in mind my audience's preference.

Can you categorize this album's music under a particular genre?
I believe that the artiste should be projected more that the genre. I have sung different genres of music, some of which were targeted at only one section of society. What I'd like to say is that this is truly an 'Indian' album which represents the dynamic culture and tradition of India.

How would you describe your song 'Ghotala'?
It's a foot tapping peppy number. I have acted in a music video of my own for the first time! The video has a small story woven into it.

After the success of your first album, what expectations do you have from V?
This album continues the energy of Aika Dajiba. So far I've got a good response and I'm looking at its success in a positive way. The content of the album is good and no compromise has been made on its quality. I believe in quality over quantity. I have worked on this album for one and a half years and I'm satisfied with the end result.

Your future plans?
I have a few movies lined up for playback singing.

What advice would you like to give aspiring singers?
Today, there are tonnes of opportunities available. But you have to prove yourself, which involves hard work and overcoming obstacles. You must believe in yourself.

Something for our readers………
Like Aika Dajiba, I hope the audience gives a favourable response to this album as well and acknowledges the hard work that I've put in.