Kaka Bhaniawala

Kaka Bhaniawala (ਕਾਕਾ ਭੈਣੀਆਂਵਾਲਾ); born Santokh Singh Rataurh; (23 October 1971 - 12 April 2009) was a Punjabi singer from a village in India called Bhani,^[2] represented within his name, meaning from Bhani (Bhaniawala). This village is located near Koom Kalan within the district of Ludhiana, Punjab. Whilst on the topic of his name, the name 'Kaka' was a nickname presented to him by his mother which he then took upon to be signature name on the stage.^[2]

Musical career

Kaka started out singing in India and released albums which brought him minor success. One of these albums was Vadia Sharabia. He later started singing for UK producers, such as Kiss 'N' Tell Productions, and Bally Rai. His major breakthrough in the UK Bhangra market came through the release of "Sahnevaal Chounk", the title track on the debut album of Specialist 'N' Tru-Skool, Word Is Born.

Following on from his success from that single, he went on to work with many other producers and continued his success. His solo album was in the process of being completed when he died. This album is still currently being completed and is due to release in 2015. It will feature production from the likes of Notorious Jatt, Tru-Skool, AMX and others.

He has had many successful hits with many famous artists including, DJ H, DJ Rags and most notably Tigerstyle, with his sole UK Singles Chart dent providing lead vocals for Nachna Onda Nei, which made #62^[3] after being used in performances by Signature in the talent show Britain's Got Talent.^[4]

Death

On April 12, 2009, it was announced that Bhaniawala had died of jaundice from liver failure in Ludhiana after going through a routine blood treatment.^[2] The loss was mourned by many in the bhangra industry and came as shock to many fans who did not expect the sudden loss.

Legacy

After his death, a concert was held in Birmingham to raise money for his family based in India. Famous singers and producers from around the world came together to pay tribute. After his death, numerous songs and albums were released featuring his voice as well as his presence in some of the music videos.

Posthumous Albums

Singles

References