Capturing many hearts

As a child, Nancy often dreamt of becoming a popular singer one day. Her cherished dream seems to have been realised: She has captured many hearts with her velvety, melodic vocals. “Prithibir Joto Shukh,” “Dwidha,” “Ami Tomar Mon-er Bhetor” and “Hawaye Hawaye” are some of her hit songs.
She bagged the prestigious Meril-Prothom Alo Award for her playback in the much acclaimed film “Third Person Singular Number.” The Daily Star (TDS) recently caught up with the crooner.
TDS: What are you busy with at present?
Nancy: I have recently done playback for a film “Projapoti,” directed by Mustafa Kamal Raj. The song, composed by Habib Wahid, is truly beautiful. Sample: “Du'dikey boshobash, du'dikei taan/ Phirbo kon parey, mon taney dui dharey…”
TDS: What was your immediate reaction when you received the Meril-Prothom Alo Award?
Nancy: It's not easy to express in words. I was pleasantly shocked. The most important thing is that the song, “Dwidha,” has found a place in the hearts of the listeners.
TDS: Which was your first recorded song?
Nancy: My first recorded song, “Hridoyer Kotha” was on the album “Panjabiwala” (Habib Wahid featuring Shireen). I think the audience accepted the song, that's why I am here today.
TDS: Which was your debut playback song?
Nancy: “Prithibir Joto Shukh,” from the film “Akash Chho(n)wa Bhalobasha” directed by SA Haq Anik.
TDS: What are the other films you've done playback for?
Nancy: I did playback for films -- “Chandragrohon,” “Ei Tho Prem,” “The Search,” “I Love You,” “Bhalobashlei Ghar Bandha Jaye Na,” “The Speed,” “Love Twenty One,” “Baily Road” and “Eri Naam Prem Eri Naam Bhalobasha.”
TDS: Your first solo album “Bhalobashar Adhora” was released two years back. When's the next one coming out?
Nancy: My second album will have a lot of surprises. I want to concentrate on this album, as the last one didn't attain much response. I now feel that it was done hurriedly.
TDS: What do you do in your leisure?
Nancy: I enjoy reading books by Humayun Ahmed, Samaresh Majumdar, Buddhadev Guho, Shankar, Maxim Gorky and Mario Puzo.
TDS: What are your upcoming plans?
Nancy: Preparations are in full swing for Habib bhai's US tour in June. I'll perform in the concerts as well.
TDS: Who is your source of inspiration?
Nancy: My mother wanted to be a singer. Her aspiration did not materialise for unavoidable reasons. She has constantly inspired me. As an artiste, I'm wholeheartedly indebted to her for instilling in me that passion for music.