'Mahanati', for all we know, is one of the most challenging movies that Mickey J Meyer has ever done.  In this chit-chat, catch him talk about what kind of music is in store, how he approached the movie, why mass tunes are not his cup of tea, and more.  

How was your experience of working on this film?

'Mahanati' is one of the milestone projects in my career.  This biopic is so genuine about Savitri garu.  We have all heard about her.  But I never knew what happened in her life.  This film answers all our questions. I am very happy that they chose me for the project.  It was a big challenge to create music for a biopic like 'Mahanati'.  I have traveled with this film for 1.5 years.  Two songs which people are really loving have been unveiled.  

With 'Mahanati', what have you brought to the table?  Does the film have any remixes?  

I always like to experiment.  Sometimes experiments work, sometimes they don't.  For 'Mahanati', we wanted to create a music that even today's generation will like.  It can't sound like the 1960's era music.  For example, 'Mooga Manasulu' song sounds modern also.  'Sada Nannu' has a Carnatic touch but its genre is modern.  It sounds like vintage.  Mahanati's songs are genre-neutral.  We have used a lot of Indian instruments like Veena, Sitar, Flute and Nadaswaram.  The score is original and we haven't done any remixes.  I have listened to the songs of Savitri garu's movies.  

Do lyrics follow your music or is it vice-versa?  Have you adopted the style of music you are known for to do 'Mahanati'?

I don't understand Telugu lyrics.  I go by the song's meter.  I usually give the tune first.  After the lyrics are written, I go by the feel.  Of course, it's the director who ultimately finalizes it.  Usually, my songs have a Western base while the feel is classic.  Same goes with the songs of 'Mahanati'.  'Mooga Manasulu', for example, deploys Western drums but the tune is Indian.  

Did you take any reference to do 'Mahanati'?

I didn't take any references.  Songs are crucial for a film like this.  The songs gel with the story.  Music is the film's soul.  

How was it working with director Nag Ashwin?

He is a chilled out guy who is lost in his own world.  It was very good to interact with him in the course of doing the movie.  Nobody had ever thought of telling Savitri's life story.  Credit goes to him for daring to do that.  

What are your upcoming movies?

I am doing 'Srinivasa Kalyanam'.  I have signed up to do Ram's movie with Praveen Sattaru.  It's a big project.  I am also going to compose the music for the debut movie of Mahesh Babu's nephew.  

Why don't you do mass movies?

I choose my movie and I don't go behind offers.  I have a personal life.  Music is just one part of my life.  I love to travel around the world.  If I am too busy, traveling wouldn't be possible.  I spend time with family and friends.  As for not doing massy tunes, I have to be that person to do that.  I am happy doing melodies.  My songs can be listened to by listeners in any mood.  My music is purposeful.