Farewell Eternal Voice : A tribute to P Jayachandran

Today, an immortal talent left us for eternal abode.

Spanning a career across five decades of Indian Cinema, the bhavagayakan (emotive singer) P. Jayachandran valiantly battled cancer and passed on, leaving us with many tracks to savor. Indeed, I'm left reminiscing at the words of Thomas Campbell at this time.

"To live in hearts we leave behind is not to die."

Being a child prodigy at school level, Malayalam Cinema was able to utilize Jayachandran across tracks that explore various emotions, aided with his mastery over vocals. These provided us with precious pearls across the seabed of Malayalam Cinema music. His tracks are a celebration of a soulful crooner and whose works will stand the test of time.

What kept him distinct from other vocalists was how youthful his voice sounded, across years. A genuine character with no facade and a flair to persevere. 

Here are some tracks to introduce you to Jayachandran's youthful voice and his musical mastery:-

"Theraraingum Mukile" - Mazhathullikkilukkam

The song is filled with a sense of longing, where the protagonist is reminiscing about a deep emotional connection, with cherished moments from the past.

Source: Music Zone (YouTube)

"Enthe Innum Vannila" - Gramaphone

The lyrics convey the pain and longing of waiting for a loved one who hasn't returned. The repeated question "Enthe innum vannilla?" ("Why haven't you come yet?") encapsulates the emotions of someone who eagerly awaits, holding onto hope despite the passage of time.

The lyrics draw parallels between the beauty of nature and human emotions, using metaphors like the moon, the breeze, and the evening sky to evoke a serene yet melancholic mood.

Source: ഭാവഗീതങ്ങൾ | P Jayachandran Hits - Satyam Cinemas  (YouTube)

"Poove Poove' - Devadoothan

An upbeat dance track. One of my favourite fast numbers that complements the musical thriller that is Devadoothan. A track of note which indicated his ability to deliver peppy dance numbers pretty well. Another example being “Prayam Thammil” from the movie Niram.

                                                    Source: Malayalam Cassettes (YouTube)

"Premikumbol" - Salt n' Pepper

An old-school love track, expressing thoughts of tender, unguarded emotions of two individuals falling in love, characterized by a mix of joy, hope, a bit of painkili sprinkled in and nervousness.

Source: Manorama Music Songs (YouTube)

"Kera Nirakal Aadum" - Jalolsavam

Encapsulates that Malayali pride in a single track. The beauty of Kerala, it's lovely culture and the pride of every Malayali expressed beautifully. 

 

Source: Movie World Chithrageetham (YouTube)

"Vattayila Panthalitu" - Yathrakarude Shradhakku

Brings out the beauty of rural life, it's simplicity out through expressive lyrics and celebrating life as a whole. Though dominated by K.S Chithra in this one, Jayachandran's vocals impose a personal signature to this track.

Source: API Malayalam Songs (YouTube)

"Aatuthotil" - Athiran

A emotional lullaby that reflects upon the journey of reconnecting with one’s inner peace and the solace found in love and care.

The lyrics delve into the idea of finding freedom and joy in small moments of life, akin to swinging freely on a cradle, with reminisce of one's childhood.

Source: Manormama Music Songs (YouTube)

From all these song snippets, it is evident that his voice just about suited anyone and had that charm to convey a heartfelt message to tug right at your heartstrings. 

To be classed in the same league as Yesudas, is an achievement in itself. at a time when they were the best playback singers around, that we were blessed with.

Source: Mathrubhumi News

Mesmerising us since the past five decades, this is a heartfelt loss to both young and old, who grew up crooning his tracks. Rest in peace Jayachandran sir. 

Your life will be celebrated with the gems that you left behind in your footsteps. 🕊