Hirdesh Singh known professionally as Yo Yo Honey Singh, or simply Honey Singh, is an Indian music producer, rapper, singer, songwriter and an actor. He started in 2003 as a session and recording artist, and became a bhangra and hip hop music producer. Later, he became successful with his songs and started making songs for Bollywood films.

Early life

Hirdesh Singh was born in Karampura, New Delhi on 15 March 1983 into a Sikh Punjabi family to parents Sardaar Sarabjit Singh and Bhupinder Kaur. Singh's mother is from Hoshiarpur, Punjab and his father is a refugee, who moved and settled in New Delhi. Singh has a sister, Sneha Singh. He graduated from Guru Nanak Public School in the Pitampura neighbourhood of Punjabi Bagh, North West Delhi.

Career

Music

Singh prefers to sing in his native language Punjabi and Hindi rather than English.

The Punjabi album International Villager was released on 11 November 2011. The track "Gabru" from the album, featuring singer J-Star, topped the Asian music charts, including the official BBC Asian charts.

He has performed at many college festivals, including Ansal Institute of Technology and Ramjas College, Delhi.

Singh and Diljit Dosanjh's song "Lak 28 Kudi Da" reached number one in the BBC Asian Download Charts in May 2011. The song was released as a promotional track for Dosanjh's film Lion of Punjab.

It was reported that he was paid the highest fee ever for a Bollywood song (as of 2012) of ₹7 million (US$88,000) for a song in the films Cocktail and Mastan.

Singh topped the chart of trending videos in 2012. He earned two places on YouTube's list of top 10 trending videos of 2012. His song "Brown Rang" made it to the top spot. "High Heels", in collaboration with Jaz Dhami, took the fourth spot.

Bollywood

His debut song in Bollywood films was "Shakal Pe Mat Ja", featuring Gagan Sidhu. Singh charged Rs. 7 million for a song in the film Mastan. This was the largest amount paid to a song artist in Bollywood to date, making Singh one of the highest-paid musical artists in Bollywood.

The song "Angreji Beat" from Singh's album International Villager, featuring Gippy Grewal, was featured in Saif Ali Khan's film Cocktail.

Singh launched his single "Bring Me Back ft. Spoken Word" at the Video Music Awards India, which aired on MTV India. After the show, his song premiered on the channel.

In late 2013, he produced songs in the films Chennai Express and Boss. He has also had songs in smaller-budget films such as Mere Dad Ki Maruti, Bajatey Raho and Fugly.

In February 2015 he released the songs "Birthday Bash", followed by songs in films including Gabbar is Back and Bhaag Johnny.[citation needed] He suffered from bipolar disorder and took a long sabbatical from work. He returned in late 2018 with the song "Makhna". The same year he sang and composed songs for the movies Baazaar and Sonu Ke Titu Ki Sweety.

Mumbai Saga's first song "Shor Machega", was released on 28 February 2021. It was composed by Yo Yo Honey Singh, with lyrics and vocals by Singh and Hommie Dilliwala.

Acting

Singh made his acting debut with Baljit Singh Deo's Punjabi film Mirza - The Untold Story (2012), performing the role of Deesha, a mad gangster. Despite only being a cameo appearance, the role went on to win Singh the PTC Punjabi Film Award for Best Male Debut. The following year, Singh appeared in another Punjabi film, this time a comedy by Amit Prasher, Tu Mera 22 Main Tera 22, as Rolly, a childish and spoilt brat, alongside Amrinder Gill. This was Singh's first main role in a film.

Singh then made his debut as an actor in Bollywood cinema with the 2014 musical-thriller film The Xpose, alongside Himesh Reshammiya. The film was released on 16 May 2014, to mixed reviews from critics, and was a box office flop.

In 2016, Singh starred in the Punjabi action film Zorawar, directed by Vinnil Markan, which was marketed as one of the most expensive Punjabi films to date. The film was critically acclaimed.

Criticism of lyrics

In the aftermath of the 2012 Delhi gang rape case, the lyrics to some of his songs, which depict violence against women and rape positively, have caused controversy. A first information report (FIR) was lodged against Singh for his offensive lyrics, and a group of social activists filed an online petition demanding cancellation of his New Year performance at a Gurgaon hotel. After the campaign, Singh's New Year concert was cancelled by the hotel. Singh denies writing these offensive lyrics.

Singh's song "Party All Night" in Akshay Kumar's film Boss was at the centre of a controversy. Producers of the movie had to submit a petition in Delhi High Court claiming that they had 'muted' an alleged vulgar word in Singh's song. The court heard a petition filed by lawyer Sanjay Bhatnagar seeking a stay on the film, contending that without the censor board's approval, the song could not be released with such a vulgar word. The petitioner had sought a stay on the release of the film until either the word or the song was deleted from the film.

His work has been perceived[by whom?] as being vulgar, misogynist, promoting violence against women and a bad influence on youth. There have been reactions in print to Singh, such as from Annie Zaidi, who wrote "An Open Letter to Honey Singh" in January 2013, and Sandipan Sharma, who wrote "Thanks for the crassness: An open letter to Honey Singh from a parent" in July 2014.

In 2014, Singh and fellow rapper Raftaar were in dispute over whether Raftaar should receive credit for the lyrics of the song "Yeh Fugly Fugly Kya Hai".

In 2015, a student of St. Stephen's College went viral for a rap that parodied Singh's problematic songs from a feminist perspective.

Personal life

Singh married Shalini Talwar on 23 January 2011. Talwar has accused the rapper of multiple offenses under the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act. Delhi's Tis Hazari Court had also issued notice to the Singh and sought his response.

On 10 September 2022, The couple filed for a divorce, and Singh reportedly paid Rs. 1 crore as alimony.

Best five Honey Singh’s Songs

Brown Rang

Brown Rang is one of Yo Yo Honey Singh's most successful and popular songs. It was released in 2011 and quickly became a smash hit, reaching the top of the music charts.Yo Yo Honey Singh composed and wrote the song Brown Rang himself. Honey Singh is a rapper and music producer noted for his ability to generate memorable tracks and interesting compositions. The song is a mash-up of Punjabi and hip-hop music, with appealing beats, Punjabi lyrics, and Honey Singh's distinct lyrical style. Brown Rang offers cheerful and energetic music that appealed to listeners, particularly the younger generation.

Dheere Dheere
Yo Yo Honey Singh's hit song Dheere Dheere It is a remake of the song Dheere Dheere Se from the 1990 Bollywood film Aashiqui. As a tribute to the original, Honey Singh's rendition of the song was released in 2015.The song Dheere Dheere has Honey Singh's rap lyrics as well as Arijit Singh's beautiful vocals. It is a romantic song that conveys feelings of love and longing. The lyrics use metaphors and poetic language to illustrate the slow and steady evolution of a love story. When it was released, Dheere Dheere became a major smash, gaining millions of views and topping the music charts.

Chhote Chhote Peg

Chhote Chhote Peg by Yo Yo Honey Singh is a popular song from the 2018 Bollywood film Sonu Ke Titu Ki Sweety. The song is a party staple having a lively and energetic feel to it. Chhote Chhote Peg is a cover of Tote Tote Ho Gaya from the 1999 film Bichhoo. Honey Singh reworked the song and added rap lines and a current vibe to make it his own. The words of the song are about partying, enjoying life, and drinking. Chhote Chhote Peg Maar, the catchy hook line, encourages folks to let loose and have a wonderful time. Chhote Chhote Peg is a song by Honey Singh that combines Punjabi beats, electronic music, and rap portions. The music arrangement is vibrant and danceable, combining classic and modern sounds. The song's music video features the film's actors, including Kartik Aaryan, Nushrat Bharucha, and Sunny Singh, swaying to the fast beats in a party environment. Chhote Chhote Peg quickly became a chartbuster, thanks to its catchy music, Honey Singh's rap lyrics, and the overall party mood it emits.

Desi Kalakaar

Desi Kalakaar is a popular song by Yo Yo Honey Singh from his 2014 album of the same name. Honey Singh's distinct rhyming style and fusion of Punjabi and urban music genres are on display in the song. Desi Kalakaar is a lively song that glorifies the desi (Indian) style and attitude. The words show pride and confidence in one's identity as a desi kalakaar (artist), while also appreciating Indian culture and customs. The song also focuses on love and attraction topics. Desi Kalakaar combines infectious beats, Punjabi traditional influences, and elements of contemporary urban music. The beautiful vocals of Sonakshi Sinha, who appeared in the song's music video, accompany Honey Singh's rap lines.

Rangtaari

Rangtaari is a popular song from the 2018 Bollywood film Loveyatri. The song, which contains Yo Yo Honey Singh's vocals, is noted for its upbeat and festive feel. Rangtaari is an upbeat song that praises the spirit of dance and joy. The lyrics are about colourful and lively parties, and they encourage listeners to let loose and enjoy the moment. The song's lyrics are a blend of Hindi and Gujarati, contributing to its celebratory feel. Rangtaari's composition combines traditional Gujarati folk music components with current beats and Honey Singh's lyrical style. The music arrangement is energetic, with a blend of classic and modern instruments, generating an enticing and dance-worthy rhythm.

Controversies

Following the 2012 Delhi gang rape case, the lyrics to some of his songs depicting violence against women and rape positively sparked criticism.  A first information report (FIR) was filed against Singh for his obscene lyrics, and a group of social activists launched an online petition demanding that his New Year's Eve performance at a Gurgaon hotel be cancelled. The hotel cancelled Singh's New Year's concert following the campaign. Singh claims he did not write the inflammatory lyrics.

Singh's song Party All Night from Akshay Kumar's flick Boss sparked outrage. The film's producers were forced to file a petition in the Delhi High Court, claiming that they had muted' an alleged filthy term in Singh's song. The court heard a plea filed by lawyer Sanjay Bhatnagar requesting a hold on the film, claiming that the song could not be published with such a foul term without the censor board's clearance. The petitioner had requested that the film's distribution be delayed until either the term or the song was removed from the picture.

Singh and fellow rapper Raftaar spat in 2014 over who should be given credit for the lyrics to the song Yeh Fugly Fugly Kya Hai.

Social Work

Honey Singh has shown his support for organisations that strive to improve the lives of poor children. He has participated in initiatives and activities to raise funds and awareness for children in need of education, healthcare, and basic necessities.

Honey Singh has been candid about his personal mental health difficulties, particularly his battle with bipolar disorder. His candour has aided in raising awareness and lowering the stigma associated with mental health concerns. He has pushed others to seek treatment and has recounted his own path in order to inspire others who are facing similar difficulties.

Honey Singh, like many other celebrities, helped with relief efforts during the COVID-19 pandemic. He has given money and supplies to frontline workers, hospitals, and organisations that are assisting those afflicted by the pandemic.

Struggle

Honey Singh has spoken out about his fight with bipolar disorder, a psychiatric illness characterised by dramatic mood swings. He discussed his battles with despair, anxiety, and substance misuse. He left the music profession to focus on his mental health and received treatment to manage his issue.

Honey Singh has been involved in legal squabbles over the graphic and contentious lyrics of some of his songs. His songs were criticised for their explicit content and objectification of women, resulting in public outrage and legal concerns. He has addressed these issues and expressed regret for any offence caused, pledging to create more responsible work in the future.

In his life, Honey Singh has endured personal losses and problems, such as dealing with criticism, unfavourable media, and personal relationships. These difficulties have had an impact on his mental health and overall professional trajectory.

Awards

• PTC Punjabi Best Music Director 2010 - Desi Daroo
• PTC Punjabi Best Music Director 2011 - The Folkstar
• PTC Punjabi Best Music Director 2012 - for album I.V. (International Villager)
• BritAsia TV Music Awards 2012 – Best International Act
• UK Asian Music Awards Best International Album 2012 for Album album I.V. (International Villager)
• PTC Punjabi Film Award – Best Music Director 2012 for Mirza – The Untold Story
• PTC Punjabi Film Award – Best Debut (Male) for Mirza – The Untold Story
• MTV VMAI Awards – Best Indie Artist (male) 2013 for the song Brown Rang
• MTV EMA Awards – Best India Act 2013 for Bring me Back
• BIG Star Entertainment Awards – Singh was co-winner of Most Entertaining Singer (Male), and Lungi Dance was nominated as Most Entertaining Song.
• Zee Cine Awards 2014 for International Icon Male
• Stardust Awards - Best Music Director for Yaariyan
• Hindustan Times India's Most Stylish Awards - Most Stylish Singer
• Mirchi Music Awards - Listener's Choice Album of the Year for Sonu Ke Titu Ki Sweety and Listener's Choice Song of the Year for Dil Chori

Achievement

Guinness World Record: In 2012, Honey Singh achieved a Guinness World Record for the Most Viewed YouTube Video in 24 Hours for his song Brown Rang. The video received over 7.5 million views within a day of its release.