Rahat Fateh Ali Khan

I was trained from the age of six, but my first performance was on my grandfather's death anniversary, when I was eight.

What was it like touring the world in the '80s as a very young singer?

I learnt that all countries are the same and new people bring with them other experiences, as do different audiences.

What was it like collaborating with Eddie Vedder of Pearl Jam on the Dead Man Walking soundtrack?

It led to soulful music and I love The Long Road as a track.

The best live audience you've had?

In Udaipur, where we performed at a wedding. Daler Mehendi was also there and it was very enjoyable.

Seven years is a long time between albums.

I haven't had the time for my own music due to many commitments over the past few years.

Which tracks should we look out for?

Rab Jaane is a personal favourite. It's a fusion track based on the Champakali raag.

Your first Bollywood foray was with Paap (2003). How has the Bollywood music industry changed over the last 10 years?

My song Mann Ki Lagan was much apprecia-ted; since then Vishal Bhardwaj and Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy, who I worked with in Sajda, have been impressive.

What other genres of music do you enjoy?

I really enjoy the mystical romance around Flamenco.

Why hasn't music other than Bollywood entered the Indian music space?

The music companies refrain from producing albums. Also, piracy needs to be controlled, as it stops the independent scene from thriving.

What's next?

Just Qawwali is a project I'm working on which will focus on pure qawwali.