S. P. Balasubrahmanyam, often fondly referred to as SPB, was an iconic Indian playback singer, music director, and actor, whose melodious voice left an indelible mark on the Indian music industry. He would go on to become one of the most celebrated and versatile singers in the country. SPB’s journey into music began at a young age, driven by his innate talent and passion. He made his singing debut in 1966 with the Telugu film “Sri Sri Sri Maryada Ramanna,” marking the beginning of a prolific career that would span over five decades.
His mesmerizing voice had a unique ability to convey a wide range of emotions, making him a sought-after artist in multiple languages, including Telugu, Tamil, Hindi, Kannada, and more. With his mellifluous voice and exceptional versatility, SPB transcended linguistic boundaries, becoming a household name across India. He collaborated with numerous music directors, creating timeless melodies that remain etched in the hearts of generations.
His partnership with composer Ilaiyaraaja, in particular, resulted in countless chart-topping songs that became an integral part of Indian film music. Apart from his playback singing, SPB’s contributions extended to music direction and acting. He composed music for several films and also appeared in supporting roles in various movies. His multifaceted talents showcased his deep-rooted connection to the world of entertainment.
SPB’s impact wasn’t limited to cinema; he was also a prolific devotional singer, lending his voice to numerous bhajans and devotional albums. His rendition of devotional songs earned him a special place among listeners who sought solace and spirituality through his music. Awards and accolades adorned SPB’s illustrious career. He won the National Film Award for Best Male Playback Singer six times and was also honored with the prestigious Padma Shri and Padma Bhushan awards by the Government of India.
His ability to infuse emotion into every note, combined with his humility and warmth, endeared him to fans and fellow artists alike. Tragically, SPB passed away on September 25, 2020, leaving a void in the music world that can never be filled. His legacy lives on through his vast body of work, which continues to inspire and touch the lives of people across generations. SPB’s journey from a small town to becoming a voice that resonated across languages is a testament to his unparalleled talent, dedication, and enduring impact on Indian music and culture.
Name | S. P. Balasubrahmanyam |
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Also Known as | S. P. Bala, Gaana Gandharva, Paadum Nila |
Date of Birth | 04/06/1946 |
Date of Death | 25/09/2020 |
Birth Place | Nellore District, Andhra Pradesh, India |
Current Residence | Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India |
Religion | Hindu |
Nationality | Indian |
Height | 170 CM |
Hobbies | Singing, Travelling, Reading, Playing Guitar |
Father | S. P. Sambamurthy |
Mother | Sakunthalamma |
Sibling | S. P. Sailaja, |
Spouse | Savithri |
Children | S. P. Charan, Pallavi |
Educational Qualification | Bachelor of Technology |
College (s) | JNTU College of Engineering, Anantapur |
Debut Movies | |
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Language | Movie Name |
Telugu | Sri Sri Sri Maryada Ramanna |
Kannada | Nakkare Ade Swarga |
Tamil | Hotel Ramba |
Malayalam | Kadalppalam |
Hindi | Ek Duuje Ke Liye |
Awards List | ||||
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Year | Award | Category | Movie Name | |
1969 | Tamil Nadu State Film Awards | Best Singer | Adimaippen, Shanti Nilayam | |
1978 | Nandi Awards | Best Male Playback Singer | Naalaga Endaro Naalaga Endaro | |
1979 | Nandi Awards | Best Male Playback Singer | Sankarabharanam | |
1980 | Tamil Nadu State Film Awards | Best Singer | Nizhalgal | |
1981 | National Film Awards | Best Director | Ek Duuje Ke Liye | |
1981 | Nandi Awards | Best Director | Premabhishekam | |
1983 | National Film Awards | Best Male Playback Singer | Saagara Sangamam | |
1983 | Nandi Awards | Best Male Playback Singer | Bahudoorapu Baatasaari | |
1984 | Nandi Awards | Best Male Playback Singer | Suvarna Sundari | |
1985 | Nandi Awards | Best Male Playback Singer | Mayuri | |
1986 | Nandi Awards | Best Male Playback Singer | Sirivennela | |
1987 | Nandi Awards | Best Male Playback Singer | Abhinandana | |
1988 | National Film Awards | Best Male Playback Singer | Rudraveena | |
1989 | Filmfare Awards | Best Music Director | Maine Pyar Kiya | |
1989 | Nandi Awards | Special Jury Awards | Prema | |
1989 | Nandi Awards | Best Male Playback Singer | Neerajanam | |
1990 | Tamil Nadu State Film Awards | Best Singer | Keladi Kanmani | |
1991 | Filmfare Awards | Best Singer | Saajan | |
1992 | Nandi Awards | Best Male Playback Singer | Bangaaru Mama | |
1993 | Nandi Awards | Best Male Playback Singer | Mister Pellam | |
1994 | Nandi Awards | Best Male Playback Singer | Bhairava Dweepam | |
1994 | National Film Awards | Best Male Playback Singer | Sangeetha Sagara Ganayogi Panchakshara Gavai | |
1995 | National Film Awards | Best Male Playback Singer | Sangeetha Sagara Ganayogi Panchakshara Gavai | |
1996 | National Film Awards | Best Male Playback Singer | Minsaara Kanavu | |
1996 | National Film Awards | Best Supporting Actor | Pavithra Bandham | |
1997 | National Film Awards | Best Male Playback Singer | Priyaragalu | |
1997 | National Film Awards | Best Dubbing Artist | Annamayya | |
1997 | Karnataka State Film Awards | Best Male Playback Singer | O Mallige | |
2000 | Filmfare Awards South | Best Male Playback Singer | Raghavayyagari Abbai | |
2000 | Nandi Awards | Best Dubbing Artist | Sri Sai Mahima | |
2000 | Nandi Awards | Best Male Playback Singer | Sri Sai MahRaghavayyagari Abbaiima | |
2002 | Filmfare Awards South | Best Male Playback Singer | Vasu | |
2002 | Nandi Awards | Best Male Playback Singer | Vasu | |
2003 | Filmfare Awards South | Best Male Playback Singer | Seetayya | |
2003 | Nandi Awards | Best Male Playback Singer | Seetayya | |
2005 | Filmfare Awards South | Best Male Playback Singer | Nuvvostanante Nenoddantana | |
2005 | Nandi Awards | Best Male Playback Singer | Pellam Pichodu | |
2005 | Karnataka State Film Awards | Best Male Playback Singer | Srushti | |
2006 | Filmfare Awards South | Best Male Playback Singer | Sri Ramadasu | |
2007 | Filmfare Awards South | Best Male Playback Singer | Mozhi | |
2007 | Karnataka State Film Awards | Best Male Playback Singer | Savi Savi Nenapu | |
2008 | Filmfare Awards South | Best Male Playback Singer | Panduranga | |
2009 | Filmfare Awards South | Best Male Playback Singer | Mahatma | |
2009 | Nandi Awards | Best Male Playback Singer | Mahatma | |
2010 | Filmfare Awards South | Best Male Playback Singer | Aaptha Rakshaka | |
2011 | Filmfare Awards South | Best Male Playback Singer | 7aum Arivu | |
2012 | Nandi Awards | Best Male Playback Singer | Mithunam | |
2013 | South Indian International Movie Awards | Best Male Playback Singer – Telugu | Sri Rama Rajyam | |
2017 | South Indian International Movie Awards | Lifetime Achievement Award | Various Films | |
2021 | South Indian International Movie Awards | Special Appreciation Award | Various Films | |
2021 | South Indian International Movie Awards | Best Male Playback Singer – Tamil | Darbar | |
2022 | South Indian International Movie Awards | Best Male Playback Singer – Tamil | Annaatthe |