Forgotten Bollywood Soundtracks on Vinyl Still Available Online
Bollywood’s golden era of music, particularly during the 60s, 70s, and 80s, produced an extensive array of unforgettable soundtracks that continue to be celebrated today. However, there are numerous Bollywood albums that, despite their exceptional quality and artistry, have been somewhat forgotten or overshadowed over time. Many of these lost gems are still available on vinyl and continue to offer collectors and audiophiles the opportunity to relive the magic of old-school Bollywood music. If you’re someone who appreciates vintage soundtracks, here’s a look at some of the forgotten Bollywood vinyl records that are still accessible online.
One of the most underrated soundtracks from the 70s is Chupke Chupke (1975), composed by the legendary S.D. Burman. This film, a delightful comedy directed by Hrishikesh Mukherjee, features a soft and melodious score that perfectly complements the light-hearted nature of the movie. The soundtrack includes memorable songs like “Pehli Raat Ki Subah” and “Aaj Ki Raat.” These tracks, sung by the legendary Kishore Kumar and Lata Mangeshkar, offer a mix of romantic tunes and soulful ballads, showcasing Burman’s ability to compose music that was both elegant and timeless. Although Chupke Chupke doesn’t often feature in mainstream discussions of classic Bollywood soundtracks, the vinyl record is still available online through platforms like eBay and Discogs, making it a must-have for collectors looking to explore lesser-known works of Burman.
Another forgotten gem is Buddha Mil Gaya (1971), composed by S.D. Burman’s younger, equally gifted protégé, R.D. Burman. This quirky film, which blends elements of comedy and drama, boasts an eclectic and memorable soundtrack. Songs like “Jeevan Ke Har Mod Pe” and “Raat Kali Ek Khwab Mein” capture a wide range of emotions, from deep romanticism to playful exuberance. The soundtrack wasn’t a major commercial hit compared to other films of that era, but it has aged beautifully and remains a favorite among true Bollywood music enthusiasts. Original vinyl pressings of Buddha Mil Gaya are occasionally available on sites like Discogs, making it an accessible find for anyone looking to explore this hidden treasure of R.D. Burman’s early career.
From the early 80s, Katha (1983) stands out as one of the most poignant and underappreciated soundtracks of its time. Composed by the duo Kalyanji-Anandji, the music of Katha stands apart for its introspective tone and emotional depth. The film’s score perfectly complements its themes of friendship, love, and regret. Songs like “Dil Mein Chhupake” and “Tu Hi Mera” have a hauntingly beautiful quality, with a touch of melancholy that resonates even today. This soundtrack was overshadowed by other more commercial releases at the time, but it has grown in stature among collectors and music lovers. Thankfully, vinyl pressings of Katha can still be found online through secondhand marketplaces like Discogs or eBay.
The soundtrack of Rakhwala (1971), composed by Laxmikant-Pyarelal, is another forgotten classic that remains available on vinyl. This film, starring Dharmendra and Hema Malini, wasn’t a massive hit, but its music features some delightful tracks that stand out for their unique fusion of Western and Indian elements. Songs like “Dil Deke Dekho” and “Chhup Gaye Saare Nazaare” showcase Laxmikant-Pyarelal’s mastery in crafting melodies that were both modern and rooted in tradition. Despite the film’s relative obscurity, the soundtrack remains a favorite for Bollywood vinyl collectors, and copies of the Rakhwala vinyl can still be found on various online marketplaces.
One of the lesser-known but highly regarded soundtracks of the 60s is Bees Saal Baad (1962), composed by Hemant Kumar. The film was a suspense thriller, and its music beautifully complements the eerie atmosphere, with tracks like “Kahin Deep Jale Kahin Dil” and “Chupke Chupke Raat Din.” The music stands out for its classical touch and haunting melodies, making it a unique entry in Bollywood’s musical landscape. Though Bees Saal Baad was overshadowed by other larger releases of its time, the soundtrack has been rediscovered by vinyl enthusiasts. Original pressings of this album can still be found online, especially on platforms like eBay and Discogs, offering a window into the less commercialized world of Bollywood film music.
Another largely forgotten soundtrack is Aakhri Khat (1966), composed by Ravi. This film, starring Rajesh Khanna in one of his earlier roles, didn’t achieve massive box-office success but had a strong emotional appeal through its music. Tracks like “Aap Ki Parchhaiyan” and “Koi Bhi Tumhara Ho” are prime examples of Ravi’s ability to create evocative music that resonates deeply with the film’s themes of loneliness and longing. Although the film itself faded into obscurity, the soundtrack has developed a cult following, and the vinyl record is still available online for those who appreciate Bollywood’s more melancholic, introspective side.
Anubhav (1971), with music by the prolific duo Kalyanji-Anandji, is another soundtrack that has been largely forgotten. The film is a mature exploration of love and infidelity, and the music complements its thematic richness. Songs like “Badi Sooni Sooni Hai” and “Meri Jaan Mujhe Jaan Na Kehna” showcase the composers’ ability to create subtle yet evocative melodies. While not a mainstream hit at the time of its release, the soundtrack’s music has aged beautifully and is now recognized for its emotional depth. Finding a vinyl pressing of Anubhav requires some searching, but it remains available on select online platforms, offering an authentic listening experience for those looking to explore Bollywood’s more nuanced soundtracks.
Finally, Chhupke Chhupke (1975), though a better-known film, still remains underappreciated in terms of its soundtrack’s status in the Bollywood pantheon. While it features great hits like “Aaj Ki Raat” and “Pehli Raat Ki Subah,” the overall score of the film, composed by S.D. Burman, is often overlooked. This soundtrack, with its beautifully subtle arrangements and classical nuances, offers an exceptional listening experience that still holds up today. Finding an original vinyl pressing of Chhupke Chupke online, though somewhat difficult, is an exciting opportunity for collectors seeking to own a piece of Bollywood musical history.
In conclusion, while Bollywood soundtracks from the 60s, 70s, and 80s have often been overshadowed by the more commercial hits of their time, many forgotten gems are still available on vinyl. Platforms like Discogs, eBay, and specialized Indian music stores continue to list these vintage albums, offering collectors and music lovers the chance to rediscover the lesser-known soundtracks that helped shape the Bollywood music scene. Whether you’re drawn to the haunting melodies of Bees Saal Baad or the experimental sounds of Buddha Mil Gaya, these forgotten soundtracks offer an enriching dive into the world of classic Bollywood music.
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