Tamil playback singer Krishnaraj, known for lending his voice to several popular film songs, has passed away at the age of 74. His demise has left the Tamil film music fraternity mourning the loss of a singer whose work became closely associated with composer Deva’s music. Among Krishnaraj’s best-known songs are ‘Thanjavooru Mannu Eduthu’, ‘Aambalaikkum Pombalaikkum’ and ‘Vellarikai’. His voice became familiar to Tamil audiences through a range of film songs, particularly during the peak of his association with Deva.
Singer worked extensively with composer Deva
According to News18, Krishnaraj passed away due to health-related issues. Over the course of his career, he reportedly sang more than 3,000 songs and worked with several leading music composers in the Tamil film industry.His association with Deva stood out, with Krishnaraj lending his voice to many of the late composer’s popular numbers. He also worked with music directors Ilaiyaraaja, A. R. Rahman and Yuvan Shankar Raja, contributing to Tamil cinema’s diverse musical landscape. His songs with Deva, in particular, helped establish him as a familiar voice among Tamil film music listeners.His passing comes just days after the death of Deva, adding to the grief surrounding the Tamil music industry.
‘Thanjavooru Mannu Eduthu’ earned Krishnaraj a State Film Award
One of Krishnaraj’s most celebrated songs was ‘Thanjavooru Mannu Eduthu’ from the film Porkkaalam. The song earned him the Tamil Nadu State Film Award for Best Male Playback Singer, marking a significant achievement in his career. He was also honoured with the Kalaimamani award by the Tamil Nadu government.Originally from Vembadithalam, a village in the Veerapandi panchayat union of Salem district, Krishnaraj built a career that brought his voice to audiences across Tamil Nadu. His award-winning performance and memorable songs remain an important part of his musical legacy.
Krishnaraj’s last known film song was for Suriya’s ‘Soorarai Pottru’
Krishnaraj’s last known film song was reportedly recorded for Soorarai Pottru, the 2020 film starring Suriya, with music composed by G. V. Prakash Kumar. He reportedly did not release any further film songs in the five years that followed, as his singing appearances became less frequent.From his award-winning rendition in Porkkaalam to his many collaborations with Deva and other leading composers, Krishnaraj left a distinct mark on Tamil film music. His songs continue to connect with listeners, preserving the memory of a playback singer whose voice formed part of the soundtrack of Tamil cinema.