Nandu Leo spreads classic rock music for peace in Kerala
Nandu Leo, a seasoned musician with a deep-rooted passion for classic rock, has quietly nurtured his love for music over the years. Despite his unassuming demeanor, Nandu transforms into a dynamic performer on stage, evoking nostalgia with his renditions of iconic songs from the 70s and 80s. An embodiment of tranquility akin to Hirayama from Wim Wenders’ acclaimed film Perfect Days, Nandu Leo exudes a sense of peace and harmony, whether he is savoring a cup of coffee at the Indian Coffee House in Thiruvananthapuram or captivating audiences with his soulful voice during his annual Music for Peace concerts. Since 2013, Nandu has made it a tradition to host these concerts in the capital city of Kerala, treating fans to a melodic journey through the golden era of classic rock. The 13th edition of Music for Peace is set to take place at the Vyloppilly Samskrithi Bhavan on Saturday, February 8.
Inspired by his father’s advice to spread happiness and strength through his music, Nandu remains committed to his musical endeavors, aiming to create an atmosphere of tranquility and joy through his performances. His foray into the world of music began at the age of 18 when he made the bold decision to pursue a career in music, leaving behind his academic pursuits in Tamil Nadu. In 1978, Nandu’s musical journey took flight with his first performance at the VJT Hall, where he showcased his talent alongside his college band, Bahm Krüger, delighting audiences with a blend of classic covers and original compositions. Reflecting on his formative years spent in Madras, Nandu reminisces about his insatiable passion for music, recalling fond memories of eagerly awaiting the opening of a record store to acquire his cherished albums, even at the cost of skipping meals. His discovery of Pink Floyd’s Obscured by Clouds marked a pivotal moment in his musical odyssey, igniting a lifelong love affair with rock and roll.
Encountering the electrifying allure of rock and roll during a school trip, Nandu found himself captivated by the hypnotic rhythms of Christie’s “Yellow River” and Middle of the Road’s “Chirpy Chirpy Cheep Cheep.” Embracing the vast tapestry of Western music, Nandu delved headfirst into the world of rock, forsaking his initial affection for Hindi songs in favor of the raw energy and rebellious spirit of classic rock. Witnessing his first live concert in Thiruvananthapuram only deepened his passion for music, sparking a lifelong devotion to the art form. Engaging with veteran rock musicians like Jesudasan Rajasekharan and drawing inspiration from stalwarts such as John Anthony and Antony Isaacs, Nandu honed his craft and eventually formed his own band, The Moonstone Band, in 1982.
Throughout the 1980s and 90s, Nandu and his band graced numerous stages, regaling audiences with their soul-stirring performances at hotels across Thiruvananthapuram. Despite the dwindling popularity of live rock music in subsequent years, Nandu’s unwavering dedication to his craft remained steadfast, driving him to continue sharing his music with fans through his annual Music for Peace concerts. While the landscape of live music underwent a transformative shift with the advent of the internet, Nandu persevered, drawing solace from the enduring connection he fosters with his audience. As he gears up for the 13th edition of Music for Peace, Nandu finds solace in the company of his daughter Cindy, a gifted vocalist who has joined him on stage in recent years, enriching the musical experience for both performers and audiences alike.