𝐀𝐧 𝐄𝐱𝐜𝐥𝐮𝐬𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐏𝐡𝐮𝐫𝐛𝐚

Phurba, popularly known as Rubji Phurba, is a teacher by profession and has been in the field of singing, composing songs, and writing lyrics for the last three decades. He has sung over 400 songs, of which he composed about 200, and won a national title in the year 2008.

Q. When did you start writing lyrics, singing, and composing tunes? And how did you become interested in it?
A. Firstly, I would like to express my gratitude to Bhutan Today for extending an invitation to the Face to Face program. It is indeed an honor to be here today. I commenced my journey in music composition in the year 1993, debuting with my first song aired on BBS Radio, the national radio station. The lyrics of that initial composition praised Zhabdrung Ngawang Ngamgyel and His Majesty, the Great Fourth. Over the past three decades, I have continued to write and compose songs.
My interest in music sprouted even before my foray into songwriting and composition. I attribute this passion to the influence of seasoned composers and singers who were already making significant contributions to the field. Observing and listening to their work greatly fueled my interest in music. Additionally, during my time as a scholar of Buddhist Studies at Simtokha, I delved into a subject called Nye-Ngag, which predominantly involved the art of writing poems. This academic pursuit further nurtured my inclination towards crafting lyrics.

Q. Since you have been in the field of composing and writing lyrics for the last three decades, be it zhungdra, Boedra, or rigsar, in what manner do you write or compose the song?
A: Indeed, it is true that my journey in composing and writing lyrics spans three decades, encompassing genres such as zhungdra, Boedra, and rigsar. When embarking on the composition of a song, the key is to have a well-defined topic or idea that serves as the foundation for the entire process.
For instance, if the theme revolves around Buddhism, I delve into the origins and principles of Buddhism to ensure a comprehensive understanding. When crafting a song dedicated to revered figures like Tilku or Rimpochoe, such as HH Chabje Yeshi Norbu, I draw inspiration from their physical attributes and spiritual contributions.
On the other hand, when the focus shifts to the great kings, my compositions are rooted in their notable achievements and contributions during their reigns. For romantic songs, I often find inspiration in the nuances of everyday life, drawing from observations of various situations and experiences.
The key to effective songwriting, regardless of genre, lies in immersing oneself in the essence of the chosen theme and translating it into a musical narrative that resonates with the audience.

Q. Till today, you have composed and sung over 400 songs. What challenges do you encounter when working on projects that involve both writing lyrics and composing a song?

A: Thank you for the insightful question. Over the course of my three-decade career, I have had the privilege of singing more than 400 songs, with around 200 of them being compositions of my own. In the realm of writing lyrics and composing, challenges are inevitably part of the creative process.
One notable challenge is the unpredictable reception a song might receive despite the effort invested. Some compositions demand extensive time and hard work, yet fail to garner the expected appreciation upon release. Conversely, certain songs effortlessly come together, requiring minimal effort, and resonate profoundly with the audience.
Take, for instance, my song “Chhum thay tsi tsay rimma.” I composed this piece during a casual meal, inspired by lyrics provided by my friend Tshering Penjor, derived from a Bhutanese proverb. Despite minimal effort, this song became a significant hit. Similarly, “Gangkar tsay lay ba bi” was crafted in a mere five minutes, yet captivated the listeners’ hearts.
The inherent challenge lies in the unpredictability of audience reception- sometimes, the songs that demand less effort become widely cherished, while those requiring substantial dedication may not receive the anticipated acclaim.

Q. Can you highlight a particular song you like the most that holds special meaning to you and elaborate on the story behind its creation?
A: When it comes to the song that I like the most, I actually don’t have any as such. But people liked my song titled “Chhum thay tsi tsay rimma” the most, and youths liked the song titled “Phang ye phang ye” from the movie Karma Wangzin. And why I say I don’t have any particular song I like the most is because the song I like, the audience doesn’t like it, and the song the audience likes, I don’t like. But still, be it the song I like or not, if the audience gives good comments on it, I automatically start to like that song. So, I don’t have any particular song of mine that I like the most.

Q. Until today, you have received only national awards, yet you didn’t stop. Can you tell us about what kept you motivated?
A: It was during the year 2008 when our Fifth king started his reign, and democracy gave birth in our country. BBS Radio (Kuzu FM) was very popular at that time. They had a program called Khathuen where people select a song to be played on the radio. So, to mark the new era in the country, Kuzu FM held a competition where many artists submitted their songs, and I submitted my song – “Chhum thay tsi tsay rimma.” The competition was something like this: in a month, the song that was selected the most by the people would be declared the winner. Luckily, people selected my song, and I was awarded the certificate and some cash prize. During that time of winning the award, I didn’t think that my song was the best. But luck favored me that time. And from that moment, I promised myself that I would never stop singing, whether I get an award or not. What actually matters to me is my recognition in society. When people love my songs and when I become known to them, that’s when I obtain blessings and good wishes. This is what I always wanted.

Q. Actually, you are a teacher by profession. Besides that, you are a composer and a singer. On top of that, in the reality show, you are there as a Judge. So, how do you manage your time in every field?
A: Yes, by profession, I am a teacher. When it comes to being a judge on a reality show, most of the shows are broadcasted only after 5:00 pm, and that also on weekends for three hours. I manage some time for the show. On the other hand, when it comes to composing and writing lyrics, it is not possible during my office hours. Of course, I get some free time, but I have to assess homework and assignments submitted by my students. Every evening for almost two hours after the school hour, I go out for a walk. So, during that time, when my mind is getting freshened up, I take that moment to compose or write lyrics.

Q. Lastly, any words of advice for upcoming youths who want to take singing as a career?
A: In today’s 21st-century era, it is really proud to see so many talented youth. I don’t think I have to give any advice to them; they are far better. Still, then, I don’t have any comments when it comes to singing. What I felt was, when it comes to writing lyrics, there are so many songs that have beautiful and meaningful lyrics, advising people to save animals or about the country – patriotic songs. But there are a few songs, I won’t say bad lyrics, but if they happen to seek some advice or opinion from experienced individuals, it would be far better. The reason I say this is, once a song is released, tens of thousands of people will listen. If the lyrics are excellent, they will give you very positive comments, and that’s where you obtain good merits. But if the lyrics hurt the sentiments of the people, they will start blaming you, and that can bring bad luck into your life.
Nowadays, rap songs are very common among youths. I am just sharing my opinion, and I believe that if they seek guidance or feedback from experienced individuals in the field, it can contribute to the improvement of their work.
These are just suggestions and opinions. Everyone’s journey in the world of music is unique, and learning from experiences, both positive and negative, is a part of the artistic process. I wish the upcoming youth in the field of singing a successful and fulfilling career ahead.