‘Music has always been my life’: Kshitij Tarey reflects on his journey from soulful hits to composing Ab Hoga Hisaab

Acclaimed singer and composer Kshitij Tarey, whose soulful voice has given Bollywood memorable songs like Javeda Zindagi, Aye Khuda, Madno, Beete Lamhe, and Bandeya, is entering a new phase of his musical career with the web series Ab Hoga Hisaab.

Streaming on Amazon MX Player, the series stars Mouni Roy, Sanjay Kapoor, and Shaheer Sheikh, with Kshitij serving as both the composer and background score composer. In addition to crafting the series’ score, he has composed two original songs one sung by Shaan and another performed by Kshitij himself.

Creating music that serves the story

Speaking about joining the project, Kshitij revealed that producer Namit Sharma‘s narration immediately convinced him to come on board.

According to the musician, the emotional depth of the story and the journey of its central character inspired him to create a soundtrack that reflects every layer of the narrative.

He explained that composing the background score while simultaneously working on two contrasting songs a powerful revenge anthem titled Ab Hoga Hisaab and the emotional romantic track Saaiyaan Ve made the project creatively fulfilling.

Films and web series require different musical approaches

Kshitij believes that while the purpose of background music remains unchanged, the format significantly influences the creative process.

He explained that films offer a continuous cinematic experience, whereas web series unfold episodically. The fact that audiences often watch streaming content on mobile devices, tablets, or laptops also affects how music is composed and structured.

Despite these differences, he said the primary responsibility of a composer always remains the same to support the story, characters, and emotions through music.

Working with Shaan was a learning experience

The singer-composer had high praise for Shaan, describing him as not only a gifted vocalist but also an inspiring individual.

Kshitij said working with Shaan was a privilege, adding that every interaction with the veteran singer became a valuable learning experience because of his vast knowledge of music and life.

He also appreciated Shaan’s humility, humour, and ability to bring a unique identity to every song he performs.

Evergreen songs remain his biggest reward

Even after years, Kshitij continues to receive heartfelt messages from listeners who associate his songs with important moments in their lives.

Whether helping someone through heartbreak or becoming part of cherished memories, he believes the greatest achievement for any artist is knowing that their music has emotionally connected with audiences.

Composer was always the dream

Although audiences primarily recognised him as a playback singer, Kshitij revealed that becoming a composer had always been his biggest ambition.

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Having started learning music at the age of four, he said composing and performing have always been equally important to him.

He also noted how the industry has evolved over the years. While artists were once largely identified as either singers or composers, today’s musicians increasingly excel in both roles a change he welcomes wholeheartedly.

Dream collaborations still on his wish list

Throughout his career, Kshitij has collaborated with legendary artists such as Asha Bhosle, Pandit Vishwa Mohan Bhatt, and Ruslan Sirota.

Looking ahead, he hopes to work with Sunidhi Chauhan, Bruno Mars, and Shakira, describing each of them as artists he deeply admires.

What’s next for Kshitij Tarey?

The musician revealed that he is already working on another web series scheduled for release in August.

Alongside that, he continues to develop his ambitious Classical Crossover by Kshitij Tarey project, which blends Indian classical music with contemporary sounds.

Having already released three songs under the initiative, he plans to unveil two more later this year. He also hopes to embark on a nationwide concert tour, giving fans an opportunity to experience his music live.

With a career spanning playback singing, composing, live performances and experimental music, Kshitij Tarey continues to expand his artistic horizons while staying true to the emotional storytelling that has defined his musical journey.