We miss you KK: Here are some of his much-celebrated Telugu film numbers

Versatile is a word that would feel small to describe KK's repertoire as a singer. Those born in the 1990s and 2000s associate their growing years with his numbers. The very memory of KK and the music he has left behind, regardless of language, is very personal for many like me. His death is a stark reminder that time and tide wait for none and the news comes just when a new generation was waiting to discover his contributions to the industry. 

It's a dream for any artiste to breathe their last on the stage - KK was certainly God's gifted child but his death at 53 is unjust and doesn't at all feel right. Amidst the brutality of life, the beauty of art is its timelessness, helping us relive fragments of the creator's life again. KK's death has barely sunk in yet, but it's important to know what makes the musician a once-in-a-generation find. OTTplay.com makes a humble attempt to take readers through some of his best numbers in Telugu cinema.

I am Very Sorry - Nuvve Nuvve

This is a playful number of the male protagonist (Tharun) trying to apologise to his romantic interest (Shriya Saran) after a minor tussle and surprisingly, the tone is barely apologetic. Although Koti's 'inspiration' for the song is quite evident, watch how the singer brings it to life with his joi de vivre and zest. KK's rendition is vibrant and energetic, representing the aggression of college years. In a memorable film and an album like Nuvve Nuvve, I am Very Sorry occupies an important place.

Cheliya Cheliya - Gharshana

In terms of the situation, Cheliya Cheliya arrives a little after the introductory sequence where the male lead (Venkatesh) is lying in an unconscious state, pining for his wife (Asin) kidnapped by his nemesis. A fast-paced rock number would be the last thing one would expect from such a situation but full credit to Harris Jayaraj, KK and Suchitra for pulling it off with such elan. Despite the hurried composition, KK brings in just the right element of gloominess into his singing, while offering a peek into the lead character's mind. 

Ye Mera Jahaan - Kushi

Easily, one of the most popular numbers in KK's Telugu cinema stint, it was also a rare occasion where the introduction song for a hero was written in Hindi, given the Kolkata backdrop of the character. Ye Mera Jahaan is no ordinary hero-worshipping number, the song raises a voice against many social ills and represents the never-say-spirit and the angst of a young generation that isn't afraid to question. KK breathes fire into a charged number that perfectly suits Pawan Kalyan's personality.

Feel My Love - Arya

If you thought KK was all about high-decibel numbers, you'll be proved wrong here! This is a song from Arya where KK must truly showcase that the protagonist is head-over-heels in love with a girl and he 'feels' for her, as the lyrics say. Right from the time of its release to today, Feel My Love continues to be a love anthem for youngsters that passionately describes a man's feelings for the girl of his dreams.

Gurtukostunnai - Naa Autograph

Composer MM Keeravaani deserves praise for tapping into the subtle, underplayed side of KK in a number filled with dollops of nostalgia. You need to be a rock to be unmoved by this song that takes you through the life of a middle-aged man reminiscing his early years in his home town. From the innocence of childhood to teenage turbulence to school friendships and the beauty of first love and heartbreak, a lot about this song is universal - it's an exploration of the navarasas and listening to it at a time when KK is no more is likely to leave you teary-eyed. 

Nuvve Naaku Pranam - Nuvvu Nenu

Nuvvu Nenu as a film introduced a melange of talents into Telugu cinema and made overnight stars of most actors, singers, and musicians associated with it. KK is no exception to it and RP Patnaik has always given him songs that explored his depth as a vocalist. Nuvve Naaku Pranam is a beautiful, soul-warming melody about a lovestruck couple finding joy in their life after fleeing their houses and making an identity of their own.

Evvarineppudu - Manasantha Nuvve

RP Patnaik, yet again, was a key figure in proving that KK is as good with pathos as much as romance. Evvarineppudu is about a youngster experiencing heartbreak just when he thinks there's light around the corner. KK's expressive voice acts as a balm for the soul here and does enough to resonate with everyone unlucky with their love life. The poignant lyrics and the simplicity of the composition bring out the best in the singer.