Tamil music has a rich and diverse history that spans centuries, blending traditional melodies with modern influences to create a unique and captivating sound. The Tamil film industry, colloquially known as Kollywood, has played a significant role in popularizing Tamil music not only in India but also on the global stage. The top 10 Tamil songs in any given period provide a glimpse into the ever-evolving musical landscape that captivates millions of fans worldwide. We are going to explain here the list of Top 10 Tamil Songs, spanning different eras and genres, showcasing the remarkable talent of Tamil music composers, lyricists, and singers.
“Kurai Ondrum Illai” – M.S. Subbulakshmi (1960)
We begin our musical journey with a timeless classic. “Kurai Ondrum Illai” is a devotional song sung by the legendary M.S. Subbulakshmi. Composed by Rajagopalachari, the song is a tribute to the eternal optimism of the human spirit, offering solace and hope in times of despair. M.S. Subbulakshmi’s soul-stirring rendition has made this song an evergreen favorite.
“Rakkamma Kaiya Thattu” – Ilaiyaraaja (1991)
Moving forward a few decades, we arrive at the peppy and foot-tapping “Rakkamma Kaiya Thattu” from the movie “Thalapathi.” Composed by the maestro Ilaiyaraaja and sung by S. P. Balasubrahmanyam and Swarnalatha, this song is a testament to Ilaiyaraaja’s versatility. Its catchy tunes and vibrant picturization have made it a cult favorite among Tamil music enthusiasts.
“Munbe Vaa” – A. R. Rahman (2005)
- R. Rahman, often hailed as the “Mozart of Madras,” has been instrumental in shaping contemporary Tamil music. “Munbe Vaa” from the movie “Sillunu Oru Kadhal” is a soulful melody, featuring the melodious voices of Shreya Ghoshal and Naresh Iyer. The song’s heartwarming lyrics and Rahman’s melodious composition have made it a cherished romantic ballad.
“Why This Kolaveri Di” – Anirudh Ravichander (2011)
In 2011, “Why This Kolaveri Di” took the world by storm. This quirky and unconventional song, sung by Dhanush, is a fusion of Tamil and English lyrics. Its catchy tune, relatable lyrics, and viral music video made it a sensation, and it remains a defining song of the 21st century’s Tamil music landscape.
“Aalaporaan Thamizhan” – A. R. Rahman (2017)
Another A. R. Rahman masterpiece, “Aalaporaan Thamizhan” from the movie “Mersal,” is a celebration of Tamil culture and pride. Sung by Kailash Kher, Sathya Prakash, A. R. Rahman, and Deepak, this song is an anthem that resonates with Tamilians worldwide. The song’s energy, stunning choreography, and message of unity have made it an instant hit.
“Rowdy Baby” – Yuvan Shankar Raja (2018)
“Rowdy Baby” from the movie “Maari 2” is a modern-day chartbuster. Composed by Yuvan Shankar Raja and sung by Dhanush and Dhee, the song combines catchy beats with a playful love story. Its infectious rhythm and dance-worthy music video have made it a global sensation.
“Veyyon Silli” – G. V. Prakash Kumar (2020)
“Veyyon Silli” from the movie “Soorarai Pottru” is a song that resonated with music enthusiasts for its simplicity and touching lyrics. Composed by G. V. Prakash Kumar and sung by Harish Sivaramakrishnan, the song evokes a sense of nostalgia and longing.
“Enjoy Enjaami” – Dhee ft. Arivu (2021)
“Enjoy Enjaami” is a Tamil indie song that took the world by storm in 2021. This song, featuring Dhee and Arivu, beautifully blends Tamil and folk influences with contemporary music. The song’s profound lyrics and powerful storytelling have earned it a special place in Tamil music history.
“Master the Blaster” – Anirudh Ravichander (2021)
“Master the Blaster” from the movie “Master” is a high-energy, foot-tapping number composed by Anirudh Ravichander and sung by Nakul Abhyankar. The song showcases Anirudh’s signature style and his ability to create hits that connect with the youth.
“Yelo Pullelo” – Anirudh Ravichander (2022)
Closing our list with a recent gem, “Yelo Pullelo” is a playful and catchy song from the movie “Doctor.” Composed by Anirudh Ravichander and sung by Anirudh himself, this song exemplifies Anirudh’s ability to create fun and memorable tracks.
Tamil music has an enduring and ever-evolving legacy. The top 10 Tamil songs mentioned above represent a fraction of the diverse and culturally rich music that Tamil cinema has to offer. From classical melodies to contemporary chart-toppers, these songs have left an indelible mark on Tamil music history. As Tamil cinema continues to produce iconic music, it is certain that the future will bring even more hits that resonate with both regional and global audiences.
