Mumbai, August 8, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
Acclaimed singer Sonu Nigam has recalled his chance meeting with Jermaine Jackson during a visit to the US following the death of pop icon Michael Jackson, revealing that the encounter eventually led to a musical collaboration.
Speaking on Komal Nahta’s podcast Game Changers: The Music Series, Sonu reflected on his international musical journey and the opportunities he received to work with global artists.
Recalling his meeting with Jermaine, Sonu said it took place shortly after Michael Jackson’s death, when he had composed a song inspired by his grief over the legendary singer’s passing.
“I met Jermaine Jackson by chance in America. It was the time after Michael Jackson had passed away, and I had composed a song on him while crying. Till date, people love that song,” Sonu said.
He added that he later got an opportunity to perform the song with Jermaine Jackson, including at the International Indian Film Academy (IIFA) Awards.
“We sang it at IIFA as well. If you see the video, you’ll see people were spellbound,” he recalled.
Sonu also spoke about his collaborations and interactions with other international music stars, including Britney Spears, Avicii and Polish singer Natalia.
“I had the opportunity to sing with Britney Spears for one of her albums. When I was on Twitter, she used to follow me, then I left Twitter. I did a song with Avicii. I also did a very good song with Polish singer Natalia,” he said.
Reflecting on the scale of his international opportunities while continuing to work from India, Sonu said he might have received more such opportunities had he lived abroad, but considered the collaborations he achieved from India significant.
Over a career spanning nearly three decades, Sonu Nigam has recorded more than 6,000 songs in 32 languages. He was awarded the Padma Shri in 2022.
His popular songs include Sandese Aate Hain from Border (1997), Kal Ho Naa Ho (2003), Suraj Hua Maddham from Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham (2001) and Abhi Mujh Mein Kahin from Agneepath (2012).Sonu Nigam recalls meeting Jermaine Jackson by chance after Michael Jackson’s death and performing their collaboration together at IIFA.
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