A R Rahman, the celebrated composer and singer, is widely known for his extraordinary contributions to music and his global fanbase. However, the journey to success wasn't always smooth, and Rahman opened up about a pivotal moment from his youth that shaped his musical career.

In a conversation with O2 India, Rahman shared an experience that took place when he was just 19 years old, working with a band during his early years in the music industry. The encounter, which initially left him confused, eventually led to a deep self-realisation that would influence his music for the rest of his career.

Recalling the event, Rahman described a time when he was working with a band, collaborating with a couple of composers. One day, a guitarist, who was completely drunk, turned to him and asked, “What are you playing? You are playing like film music. He made a very condescending comment about my playing.” This remark, made in 1985 or 1986, seemed to be a casual question at first, but Rahman admits it stayed with him long after the conversation ended.

At the time, Rahman didn't fully grasp the importance of the guitarist’s words. However, after a few weeks, he realised the message. He said that the composers he had been working with were influencing his music in ways that stifled his individuality. The realisation hit him hard, and he began searching for his own musical style.

Rahman further added that he consciously distanced himself from these influences and began his quest to find his unique 'musical style'. He recalls that the journey was not easy. "It took me about seven years to get over that,” Rahman said.