Anoushka once gave me a sitar lesson: Norah Jones

Internationally acclaimed singer, songwriter Norah Jones will be performing at her first gig in India at the newly curated festival A Summer’s Day in Mumbai on March 3. She tells us about her fascination with tabla, her stint with sitar, her acting career, her upcoming gig here, and more...

Are you as kicked about your maiden show in India as your fans are?
I’m excited… It’s also bittersweet because my dad just passed away. I’ve never played in India, so that’s one reason to do it. Also, my dad always wanted me to play here. It was just a matter of timing. It never worked out in the past. This time I planned it a while ago and my dad was really asking me to do it. I thought it would be nice for him and me. So, it’s very sad that he’s gone now, but I know he was very excited about me performing in India.

Tell us what’s in store at A Summer’s Day in Mumbai?
I do a lot of old and new songs, throwing in a cover or two. I have a great new band, and I’ll be playing some piano and guitar. It’ll be really fun. If people don’t know the new stuff, we’ll do a lot of old stuff; if they don’t know the old stuff, we’ll do the new stuff…

How fond are you of Indian music?
I’m mostly familiar with my dad and sister’s music. They’re my personal favourites. I have a great old Bollywood soundtrack compilation and listen to it sometimes. I do love that old Bollywood music which is so good.

You’ve acted in movies like Ted and My Blueberry Nights. Will we see you more in movies?
I don’t know. I would love to do more in the future if something fun comes up. It’s usually a right-place-at-the-right-time kind of thing.

Did you ever want to learn the sitar?
The sitar is such a hard instrument. Anoushka gave me a lesson once, and I was just blown away by how much my back hurt by sitting and holding it. I never had an intense desire to learn it but I love listening. I love the tabla as well.