Tina Russell: Music is my first love

How was your experience working with Bappa Mazumder? 

It was wonderful! This was my first collaboration with him. He is one of the artistes I always looked up to and dreamt of working with. Our song was even more special because it was written by my husband Zulfiqer Russell, who teamed up with Bappa Mazumder after eleven years. So all in all, my experience with this romantic duet was very pleasant.

It will be featured on Mazumder's new project "Beautiful Voices - First Season" where he is singing alongside eight of his favourite female singers.

When will you drop your latest duets with Imran and Nachiketa? 

We finished working on those two songs last month. I am hoping that they will be released very soon. Covid derailed our plans a bit. Otherwise the songs would have reached the audiences sooner.

What is going to be your new project? 

I am collaborating with Sujan Arif for a new duel and releasing a few covers on my Youtube channel.

You studied classical music at Rajshahi University, earned your Masters from Shanto-Marium, and taught music..

You know my only regret is that I never got to pursue a PhD in music. My mom wants me to study Nazrul music. I have not still given up on that dream.

You studied classical and Nazrul music; yet you mostly seem focused on contemporary music..

Yes, I was very involved in Nazrul music during my childhood. I grew up singing his songs. I did my thesis on his religious and devotional songs. Even earned an award titled Young Nazrul Researcher. But I just never had much of an interest in being a professional Nazrul singer.

You have worked with AR Rahman as well.

Yes, he lent voice to the song 'Bolo Joy Bangabandhu', penned by my partner Zulfiqar Russell, and invited me to sing the chorus part. Working with him was probably the biggest achievement of my career. This was the first time that the world renowned musician composed a song for Bangladesh.

You also have a fashion brand named Tina.

Yes. I like learning about the latest fashion trends and indulging in them. This is one of my hobbies. So I thought I could perhaps spend some time and try turning my passion into an online shop. However, my first goal is to stay devoted to my music. That's my first love.