Music composer, director and singer – it would not be unfair to say that Bappi Lahiri defined a cultural age in South Asia. With this flashy track suits, big bling and an even bigger presence. He defined the sound of an era – the 70s and 80s. Of course, plenty of it was inspired by the larger disco movement but it had a definitive Bappi Da sound to it.
Combining disco, kitsch and camp, the videos of Bappi Da songs were iconic too! Let’s take a look at some of his work.
Yaar Bina Chain from the movie ‘Saaheb’
The song encapsulated the disco romance with gorgeous leads – Anil Kapoor and Amrita Singh. Not only did Bappi Lahiri compose the song, he also sang it – giving it that signature Bappi feel.
Raat Baaki, Baat Baaki from the movie Namak Halal
Not instantly recognizable as a Bappi tune but such class on this number! This composition remains one of Bollywood’s most iconic 70s tune featuring Parveen Babbi in a black sequenced gown.
All The Songs from the movie Disco Dancer
Iconic would be understatement! If there was ever a set of songs that defined disco in South Asia it was these ones! The track Jimmy Jimmy was a global hit and more recently was sampled by MIA in the song of the same name.
De De Pyaar De from the movie Sharaabi
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CUIQidhzok&abchannel=AkramRamay
Kishore Kumar singing for Bappi Da picturised on Amitabh Bachan! We will wait to find a more perfect combination.