𝐀𝐧 𝐄𝐱𝐜𝐥𝐮𝐬𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐒𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐦 𝐓𝐞𝐧𝐳𝐢𝐧

Sonam Tenzin is a renowned lyricist and tune composer who has received five national film awards for best lyricist. With a career spanning couple decades, he has made a significant impact in the Bhutanese film industry with his exceptional talent and creativity. His ability to compose profound and emotive lyrics, combined with his skill in composing captivating tunes, has earned him widespread recognition and admiration. Throughout his career, Sonam Tenzin has consistently delivered memorable and impactful compositions that have resonated with audiences across Bhutan. His dedication to his craft and his unwavering passion for music have solidified his status as a genuine maestro in the industry.

Q. How did you initially get started as a lyricist and tune composer, and what inspired you to pursue this career?
A. Firstly, I would like to extend my thanks for inviting me to the show for an interview. If I recall correctly, when I started to write lyrics and compose tunes, it was when I was in ninth grade. And what inspired me to pursue this as a career were people like Nidup Dorji. He was a songwriter, but now he is an actor. When I was in class nine, he was in class twelve. People like him came to BBS and sang and sold lots of cassettes, and I got the opportunity to learn from within by looking at those people. That was what inspired me to pursue a songwriting career.

Q. Could you share some insights into your creative process when writing lyrics and composing tunes for Bhutanese movies?
A. If I talk about the creative process in songwriting, it is all about practice. You won’t become famous by writing a song; moreover, you need to have the zeal to write the song through constant practice. And while writing a song, if the song has to be good, then we have to focus on the timeline of the situation. You should consider what the current audience is seeking. Songs in the 90s were different, and songs in the 2023s would be different depending on the time and the situation. We should consider and understand the timeline and situation. If I talk about the technique, then if we are looking to compose Dzongkha songs, you should learn, practice, and execute.

Q. With the honour of receiving five national film awards for best lyricist, can you tell us about the significance of these awards in your career and creative journey?
A. Receiving five national film awards for best lyricist has been an incredible honour in my career and creative journey. Before achieving these awards, my goal was always to receive recognition for my work. However, after receiving the first award, my intention did not change. Instead, it fueled my determination to push myself further. Each award became a stepping stone, a reminder that I have to strive for even greater excellence.
The significance of these awards in my life is profound. They inspire me to work harder, instill in me a sense of responsibility, and keep pushing me to excel in songwriting. Each accolade serves as a validation of my efforts but also as a reminder that there is always room for growth and improvement. The awards have become a source of motivation, propelling me to constantly refine my craft and create music that resonates deeply with the audience.

Q. What challenges or joys do you encounter when working on projects that involve both writing lyrics and composing tunes?
A. One of the biggest challenges is finding the right mix between the words and the music. Sometimes, the words may be too complex or too simple for the music, or the music may overpower the lyrics. It can be difficult to create a smooth blend between the two, especially when trying to express a specific feeling or message.
Another challenge is finding motivation. Songwriting is a creative process, and it can be challenging to come up with new and original ideas. Sometimes, I struggle to find the right words or melodies to describe what they are feeling or trying to convey. Additionally, as you stated, it can be challenging to write songs that do not represent your current emotional state. For example, if you are feeling sad, it may be tough to write a happy or upbeat song. This can take a lot of mental and emotional energy to push through and create something that is not reflective of your present mood. On the other hand, many joys come with writing and creating songs. When a song comes together exactly and the words and music support each other perfectly, it can be a very satisfying feeling. When a song connects with fans and gets positive feedback, it can be incredibly satisfying. With the rise of social media and music streaming apps, it has become easier for musicians and composers to share their work with a larger audience. This can lead to increased exposure and chances for success, which can be a very exciting possibility.

Q. Can you highlight a particular song or project that holds special meaning to you and elaborate on the story behind its creation?
A. One song that holds special meaning for me is from the movie “Kishu Thara.” This song was written during a difficult time in my life when I was dealing with the pain of a lost love. The song captures the feelings of longing and sadness, describing the emotions that I was experiencing at that time. The process of making the song was both cathartic and challenging. I poured my emotions into the lyrics, trying to express the depth of my feelings in a way that would connect with others who have experienced similar sorrow. The melody and arrangement of the song were carefully made to evoke a sense of sadness and yearning, mirroring the emotional journey I was on. When the song was released, I felt a deep sense of satisfaction and completion. Seeing how the song has connected with fans and touched their hearts brought me a sense of satisfaction, knowing that my music has the power to resonate with others and provide solace during tough times. Each song I create holds a special place in my heart, as they are all a reflection of my experiences and feelings at different points in my life. Whether happy, sad, or born from a difficult place, each song represents a unique part of my journey as a musician and composer

Q. How do you perceive the impact of your songs on Bhutanese movies, and what do you believe makes a song truly connect with audiences?
A. I appreciate the opportunity to share my experiences and contributions to the Bhutanese movie industry. As a songwriter, my involvement in creating 5 to 6 songs for 5 movies annually has amounted to a substantial output of around 30 songs per year. This level of productivity has allowed me to significantly influence the musical landscape of Bhutanese cinema. Moreover, my commitment to using Dzongkha in my songs has been instrumental in promoting the national language and fostering a sense of cultural pride and identity. By creating music in Dzongkha, I have contributed to the preservation and celebration of Bhutanese heritage, making my songs accessible and relatable to a wide audience, spanning from children to the elderly. My ability to connect with the Bhutanese audience through my songs has been a deeply rewarding experience. This connection has allowed me to convey my feelings and experiences, inspiring and influencing both current and future songwriters to explore and express themselves in Dzongkha. I firmly believe that my work not only impacts the present but also has the potential to shape the future of Bhutanese music and cultural expression.

Q. Where and through what process do you typically engage in the songwriting process?
A. For me, the art of songwriting defies environments. Whether I’m nestled in the middle of a bustling crowd or submerged in the tranquility of a quiet space, the process of creating songs is similar to a form of meditation. It’s a deeply personal and introspective journey, where each song and tune becomes a channel for my feelings and experiences. The act of songwriting is not just an artistic activity; it’s a deep sense of happiness, a connection to the spiritual that allows me to channel my innermost thoughts and feelings into a tapestry of music and words.

Message:

I believe that the upcoming generation is incredibly talented and perceptive, especially when it comes to creative pursuits like songwriting. If they are genuinely interested in songwriting, I would highly recommend exploring the beauty of our Bhutanese language, Dzongkha. Writing songs in Dzongkha not only showcases the interest in our cultural heritage but also adds a profound sense of satisfaction and pride. It’s a wonderful way to connect with our roots and contribute to the preservation of our language and traditions.