''I WILL BE LOOKING FOR THE SPIRITUAL POWER THAT INDIA IS SO RENOWNED FOR''

International music mogul Simon Fuller talks about his latest venture, NowUnited - the search across 10 countries for local talent for the first event Global Pop group. The India audition will be held today (21st December) in Mumbai.

How did NowUnited come about?
I have wanted to create a new Pop Music project for some time. However, I also wanted to do something new and exciting, never seen before. I wanted it to be a celebration of singing and dancing and on a global scale. I want to create a music group where the fans are as important as the group itself, fully engaged and connected to every aspect of what happens.

You have mentioned that India’s culture made you choose a talent from here. What are your specific requirements from the Indian talent? What will be the selection qualities and what all you are looking for when you judge the candidates in India?
I will be looking for the spiritual power that India is so renowned for. The commitment and devotion that is so important to achieve the best results. They need to have triple treats-singing, dancing and acting. They, of course, should have charisma and good looks and a passion for performance. They need to have a real desire to share all their talent with the rest of the world. I can't wait to see the final selection and visit India myself to choose that special person. 

What are the challenges that you will be giving to Indian participants?
There will be no challenges. We know what we are looking for; it is that special magic the combination of many things.... movement, the voice and the inner glow that shines through. We want someone that the world can fall in love with and aspire to be. We are looking for an inspirational person.

Any Indian music composer or singer’s talent you are particularly fond of or listen to?
I love many different Indian artists and musicians. AR Rahman has accomplished so much around the world and Ravi Shankar is a legend. However, Asha Bhosle is someone that defines the voice of India to me.

What is the most appealing thing about Indian music according to you?
I love the emotion and passion in Indian music. I also appreciate the melodic complexity, it is unique and inspiring and there is nothing quite like it anywhere else in the world.

While a lot of Indian actors are working in Hollywood, Indian music seems to find less space in Hollywood shows and movies. What do you think is the reason behind it?
I think this is simply because, for the most part, each country creates entertainment for their own population, so the casting and music are very much geared to the domestic tastes. However, there are exceptions to this and once again I would like to think that NowUnited might create more interest in music and cultures from all over the world.