Ram Sampath

Biography:

Ram Sampath, born on July 25, 1977, is a highly accomplished Indian composer, music producer, and musician renowned for his diverse contributions to the music industry. His journey began with composing advertising jingles for Mumbai-based agencies, and he swiftly transitioned to creating music for pop albums such as Shaan’s “Tanha Dil” (2000). Sampath later ventured into the world of cinema, leaving an indelible mark with his compositions for films like “Khakee,” “Delhi Belly” (2011), “Talaash” (2012), and “Raees.”

Born to a Tamilian father and Kannadiga mother, Sampath spent his formative years in Chembur, Mumbai. He attended OLPS High School and came from a musically inclined family. His grandfather, TV Ramanujam, was a founder of Shanmukhananda Hall, a prominent cultural center in Mumbai. Sampath’s ancestral home hosted many leading musicians and singers of Carnatic music, shaping his early exposure to the rich musical heritage. He pursued Carnatic music for eight years and later studied commerce at Podar College, Mumbai, where he showcased his musical talents by playing the keyboard in a rock band.

Ram Sampath’s illustrious career extends beyond film music into the realm of non-film music, particularly in the creation of advertising jingles. His notable contributions include composing theme songs for brands like Airtel, Docomo, Thums Up, Pepsi, and The Times of India. One of his significant achievements was composing the theme song for the “I Lead India” campaign in 2013.

In 2008, Sampath collaborated with the Australian rock band INXS to create an Indian version of their songs, showcasing his versatility. He faced legal challenges in 2008 when two songs from the film “Krazzy 4,” including the title track and “Break-free,” were accused of plagiarism. This landmark case led to a significant out-of-court settlement, establishing a precedent in the Indian film industry.