Job Kurian, the soft-spoken maestro with a voice as soothing as a monsoon rain in Kerala, is a name that has left an indelible mark on both the indie music scene and Malayalam cinema. Born on July 29, 1982, in the picturesque town of Vattiyoorkavu, Kerala, Job’s journey from engineering student to award-winning playback singer has been anything but conventional. A true maverick, Job didn’t just settle for crooning in film studios—he embraced indie music with open arms, blending soulful melodies with his raw, untamed energy.
At this year’s Red FM’s South Side Story, Job’s performance was a testament to his eclectic persona. He took the stage like an old friend reuniting with his tribe, weaving through genres effortlessly, and setting the audience ablaze with his electrifying presence. The quirky mix of folk, blues, and Malayalam soul reverberated through the crowd, transforming a regular evening into a spiritual sound trip. It was Job in his element—authentic, energetic, and profoundly connected with his audience, reminding everyone why he’s not just a singer, but a storyteller of the highest order.
In this candid conversation with News18 Showsha, Job takes us through his musical journey, the importance of brotherhood in his band, the rise of indie music in Malayalam, and his recent experience at South Side Story.
The South Side Story Experience
At Red FM’s South Side Story, an event celebrating South Indian culture, Job delivered a raw, energetic performance that had the crowd entranced. When asked about the experience, he shared, “To be honest, it was amazing to be on stage today. Last time, two years back, I had come once before. This time I felt, yeah, better to be on stage because the audience really participated with everything, encouraged all the genres, right? So it was really special.” The energy of the audience, coupled with the enthusiasm of the performers, made it a memorable experience.
Job’s performance had a rawness to it that resonated deeply with the crowd. The magic, however, didn’t just lie in the music but also in the chemistry Job shares with his band. “It’s sheer brotherhood,” he explains. “It has to be an honest one, should not be a fake one. I believe that if the brotherhood is real, the concert connects more deeply with the audience.” For Job, this authenticity is at the heart of every performance.
“Whatever I’m doing in my life, I try to be true to myself and I respect my co-artists. That bond reflects in the concert. Even if someone is having a low, we encourage that person. It’s a beauty to be on stage with really good friends.”
Early Days and Musical Clarity
Job Kurian’s journey in music began during his engineering days. “Even my lecturers told me, ‘You better become a musician, not an engineer.’ I had no interest in engineering; I only wanted to do music.” His time at Malanad College of Engineering in Karnataka was pivotal, with inter-college festivals becoming the stage for his early performances. “The college only sent us to festivals, they gave us attendance. In that way, I was a bit spoiled, never going to class. But all of that reflects now. The encouragement I received back then was crucial.”
Despite being a reality show runner-up in ‘Super Star’, Job never considered himself a “competition man.” Still, the show gave him a platform to showcase his talent to a wider audience. “Reality shows fast-track the recognition process. It was a well-organized show, and I was lucky to be part of it. It helped establish my identity as a musician.”
Studio vs. Stage
For Job, live performances are where he feels most at home. “I’m not a studio man at all. I don’t like to put my headphones on and sing alone in a room. But we have to do it because that’s how the industry works.” The disconnect he feels in the studio is the opposite of the connection he shares with his audience during live performances. “Performing live is a different experience altogether. I love to perform in front of an audience.”
His versatility shines through in his discography, with songs like “Hey Neela Vaan” and “Love Safari” highlighting his range. “My base is Carnatic music, but I’ve also dabbled in Western classical and Hindustani. I’m a proud listener of all genres. Appreciating music from different genres broadens your thought perspectives.” He cites influences like Sukhwinder Singh, Kailash Kher, and the late KK, all of whom have shaped his musical journey.
Challenges and Triumphs in Playback Singing
Despite his vast experience, Job is selective about the songs he chooses to sing. “I try to sing only the songs that suit me. I tell the composer honestly, ‘This is not in my area or cup of tea, but this one I can try.'” The relationship with the composer is key. “They make us comfortable, and that brings out the best in you. I’ve been blessed with composers who give me space.”
Job’s debut album, ‘Thaalam’, was a milestone in his career, marking his venture into composing. The album, a collaboration with Charan and Yakzan, featured diverse influences, from folk Malayalam to blues. “We always wanted to bring something fresh, something that would resonate with listeners while also experimenting with different sounds.”
The Rise of Indie Music in Kerala
The independent music scene in Kerala has flourished in recent years, with Job playing a pivotal role in its growth. “Independent artists are getting more attention and encouragement from the audience. Before, we didn’t have a proper platform to express ourselves. But with YouTube and social media, things have changed drastically.” He credits bands like ‘Avial’ for breaking barriers and paving the way for other indie musicians. “Avial was the first to break all the barriers. I’m blessed to have followed their path and to have performed with them.”
As the indie scene grows, Job has noticed a shift in the film industry as well. “Now, filmmakers are roping in indie musicians for collaborations. It’s becoming more common for original soundtracks to feature a band or indie artist. This trend is very much appreciated. It’s a total different ball game when you compose for a film and when a film takes an artist’s song into its narrative.”
The Hope Project and Personal Expression
Job’s ‘Hope Project’, a deeply personal venture, reflects his belief in the power of music to tell stories. “All my songs have a biographical nature. That way, I can be truthful to my music.” The birth of his first child during the project gave Job a renewed sense of hope, which is central to the project’s theme. “Hope is everything for me. It keeps me going. My songs reflect that mindset.”
When asked about the long-awaited track ‘Hey’ from the project, Job promises it will be released soon. “Musicians are moody,” he laughs. “But I’ll finish ‘Hey’ for sure and let you know.”
A Special Bond with Fans
Job is quick to correct anyone who refers to his listeners as “fans.” “I prefer to call them well-wishers. They wish good for you, right?” His connection with his audience is genuine, whether it’s through social media or face-to-face interactions. “I try to reply to every message on Instagram. Meeting people who relate to my songs inspires me to do better. I’m very social that way.”
Composing for Films vs. Indie Projects
When it comes to composing for films versus independent projects, the distinction for Job is clear. “Films are someone else’s dream. You’re there to support that dream. But when it’s your own project, it’s your own expression, and you can be more truthful to it.” He adds, “There’s a lot of responsibility when you work on a film. A whole team’s efforts are involved, and you don’t want to let them down.”
For Job, the decision to take on a film project depends on the chemistry with the director. “If the director can relate to my music, it makes things easy. Otherwise, it’s full of stress. I’m not someone who likes to take on stress.”
Upcoming Projects and Future Aspirations
Job’s upcoming indie project, ‘Palayanam,’ tackles the theme of migration. “I always feel that being forced to leave your homeland due to circumstances, whether financial or otherwise, is a painful experience. This song is about that pain and the longing to return.”
As the interview winds down, Job humbly apologizes for his “stammerings,” though his thoughtful responses and soulful music speak volumes. His performance at South Side Story was a testament to his raw talent and the genuine connection he shares with his audience.
With upcoming projects and a continuous drive to push boundaries in both the indie and film music scenes, Job Kurian remains a beloved figure in Malayalam music. His journey is one of authenticity, dedication, and an unwavering love for the craft—a true artist in every sense of the word.
Red FM’s The South Side Story Phenomenon
Red FM’s South Side Story has become a cultural hub for South Indian artists to showcase their talents. It celebrates the diversity of the southern states through music, dance, food, and art. Job Kurian, who performed at this year’s event, was a crowd favorite. The festival not only brings together top-tier musicians like Job but also shines a spotlight on the rich heritage and modern innovations of South Indian culture. For Job, the platform is a perfect blend of tradition and innovation, much like his own music. Red FM’s South Side Story continues to be a melting pot of cultures, genres, and ideas, making it one of the most awaited festivals for both artists and fans alike.
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