Reality stars fade away, says Jimmy

Jimmy Felix of Aasma fame sheds light on the reality of “reality shows”, the hardships fresh talent faces in the music industry, the comeback of the band and more

Jimmy Felix of the music band Aasma, who shot to fame after winning the music reality show ‘Popstars 2’, was in the city to perform at DST’s annual event at HICC on Tuesday. Jimmy enthralled the audience and took them on a nostalgia trip by presenting songs from his albums and music videos that included numbers like “Tumse hi pyar”, “Saima-Salim”, “Remix” and the debut blockbuster, which got him fame, “Chandu ke Chacha” among others.

This is Jimmy's fifth performance in the city. Speaking about his experience in Hyderabad Jimmy says, “I love the way the city is built; huge buildings, IT companies and all. This is the only place, which makes me feel proud as an educated man. People are friendly and I love Hyderabadi accent.”

Sharing details about his journey with the music band, Jimmy says, “With Aasma, I made four music albums and eight music videos; that itself is a long journey. As a band we are still together; although we are individually busy in our careers. We are working on a new single and we are shooting a video for the same; it will be released soon. This is a way of showing the world that we are still together.”

It is not uncommon for “reality” talent to disappear a few months after the show ends. Jimmy, also a product of this industry agrees, “The platform is huge. Definitely, it is a big break. However, now it has become a business for channels; they will promote all kinds of drama to garner high TRPs.

And, singers are mostly freshers who cannot handle the sudden name and fame. Sooner or later, the channel leaves them and the “talent” is on its own. They suddenly get the reality check and it becomes difficult for them to sustain.”

“The market for albums or pop music has almost become nil and Bollywood music has completely taken over; only big names sell. Producers want to repeat successful voices it is difficult for new singers, who have just won a show, to get an entry in playback singing. Sadly, the channel does not back them up and they eventually give up,” he adds.

The Mumbai-based Malayalee singer, who hails from Jaipur, says that performing live is his first love and he was never attracted to sing in movies. “I was always passionate about performing live. As I’m travelling for my shows, I don’t have time for other “stuff”.

Not every singer can be a good performer and entertain crowds and bring people to dance floor. I am satisfied with whatever I got,” he smiles. While signing off, Jimmy says, “One thing that I may like to do, though, is to host a reality show. If I get a chance, I would love to host a music reality show in my own style.”