MSV: the face of an unparalleled era of music

An entertainer across generations, Maniyanga Subramanian Viswanathan, popularly known as MSV -- an acronym that symbolised an old-world charm -- leaves behind a rich legacy of evergreen songs in various genres of music.
Be it the mellifluous melodies of the 1960s or the youthful numbers of the colourful 1980s, Viswanathan travelled through time and trends with ease, making him a relevant name through decades.
A rich portfolio that could make his rivals jealous, the 88-year-old music composer, who passed away today, made almost all of the big heroes of Tamil cinema lipsync on his compositions. He also took to mic to sing several songs, some composed by him and others like Oscar-winner, A R Rahman.

Viswanathan, also known as "Mellisai Mannar" (King of light music), not only captured great heights with his music but also inspired many.
Tamil lyricist late Vaali, who was a legend of his own times, recalled how during his initial years of struggle MSV's music in "Mayakkama Kalakkama" song helped him avoid suicidal tendencies.
He moved through genres easily in music be it the solemn sense of national pride in his invocation to Mother Tamil in "Neerarum Kadaludutha," or the blissful romance in the super hit song "Kalangalil Aval Vasantham".

The immensely popular bridal song of "Vaarayen Thozhi Varayo Mana Pandal Kana Varayo," (welcoming the bride) was a brilliant subtle expression of marital bliss tinged with youthful fun and become a part of marriage ceremonies.

His "Ninaippathellam Nadanthuvittal" from "Nenjil Oru Aalayam" is memorable for the deep sense of solace it offered to wounded hearts.
The great success of "Ninaithaley Inikkum" (that featured Kamal Haasan and Rajinikanth) in the 1980's, stands as a testimony for his musical brilliance as Viswanathan proved that he could reinvent himself even in the face of stiff competition. It was a period when maestro Ilayaraja reigned supreme in Tamil Nadu with his music.
Though MSV did not have a formal training in Carnatic or Western music, his deep knowledge in such music schools was astounding.
"He brilliantly brought in Western music with a deep base of Carnatic music in the Ammamma Keladi Thozhi set in Charukesi raga," said D Thiagarajan, music researcher told PTI.

Eminent Carnatic musician Nityashree Mahadevan in her tributes said, "He was a Guru to many, his music will continue to reform generations of youngsters."
Viswanathan also collaborated with younger musicians like Ilayaraja, junior to him several years and his son Yuvan (also a music composer) and Rahman.