In the 1990s, two songs created a sensation in the Indian music scene: ‘Jumma Chumma De De’ from the film Hum (1991) and ‘Tamma Tamma Loge’ from Thanedaar (1990). These tracks, composed by Laxmikant-Pyarelal and Bappi Lahiri respectively had audiences dancing to their beats. Though both songs drew inspiration from Guinean singer Mory Kanté’s 1987 album Akwaba Beach, featuring tracks like ‘Tama’ and ‘Yé ké yé ké’, it still led to a roaring controversy, with claims that one composer had copied from the other. Laxmikant And Bappi Lahiri addressed these accusations in a rare interview, where their differing perspectives on the issue were clear.
In an old interview with Lehren, both Laxmikant and Bappi Lahiri expressed their frustration about the situation. Laxmikant, of the Laxmikant-Pyarelal duo, spoke out first, indirectly pointing at Bappi Lahiri, accusing him of copying their song. “It was well known in the industry that we had recorded ‘Jumma Chumma’. When we heard that another song similar to ours was being recorded, we approached the producers of Hum and requested them to look into the matter,” he said. Despite his efforts to resolve the situation, Laxmikant revealed that he received the reply from the opposite, saying, “If you can do it, why can’t we?”
Laxmikant went on to explain that if Bappi Lahiri had recorded his song first, there wouldn’t have been any objections. However, he firmly believed that Jumma Chumma De De had been recorded well before Tamma Tamma Loge. He said, “We recorded Jumma Chumma on June 26, 1989 and within a month, 200 cassettes had already been available in the every household of the film industry. It’s incorrect to say the song hadn’t been heard.”
On the other side of the debate, Bappi Lahiri also gave his perspective on the controversy. He didn’t understand why there was such an uproar, especially since, according to him, neither song was an original creation. Bappi Lahiri said, “I don’t understand the controversy. Neither of our songs are originals. But my version is original in its orchestration.” He explained that the producers had requested him to include eight lines from the African tune ‘Tama’ into Tamma Tamma Loge, which he did and he added saying, “It’s a computer song, and I don’t know what their song is like. I haven’t even heard it.”
When asked why Laxmikant-Pyarelal were accusing him of copying their song when both compositions were inspired by Mory Kanté, Bappi Lahiri maintained that his version was unique and original in style and arrangement. He expressed his frustration over the continued comparisons but firmly stood by his work.
Despite the claims and counterclaims, the rivalry between Laxmikant and Bappi Lahiri was never fully resolved. While the two parties may or may not have come to an agreement, one thing was clear—both Jumma Chumma and Tamma Tamma became chart-topping hits. Each song left an indelible mark on the Indian music industry and continues to be popular to this day.
Both Laxmikant and Bappi Lahiri, delivered two unforgettable tracks that defined a generation of Bollywood music. Whether it was the infectious energy of Jumma Chumma De De sung by Kavita Krishnamurthy and Sudesh Bhonsle, or the upbeat rhythm of Tamma Tamma Loge, performed by Anuradha Paudwal and Bappi Lahiri, these songs became timeless classics. Proving renowned genius work and the brilliance of Laxmikant and Bappi Lahiri!
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