Virtuosic playback singer Suzanne D’Mello creates ear-catching Indian melodies with Western hues, forging new musical dynamics in and beyond Bollywood. • D’Mello had a few Bollywood contributions under her belt before the upbeat “Mahiya” for 2007 film Awarapan marked her as a force to be reckoned with. • The versatile singer has injected a variety of filmi showstoppers with alluring pop/R&B stylings—from A. R. Rahman’s rocking “Aye Bachchu” (Ghajini in 2008) to Pritam’s Punjabi-powered “Challa” (Crook in 2010). • Her success also led to Tamil and Kannada smashes. In 2010, she shined with heavenly vocals on “Hosanna” (Vinnaithaandi Varuvaayaa) and the infectious “Ayyayyo” (Veera Parampare). • Her soothing voice fuelled two contributions to Rahman’s Oscar®-winning soundtrack for Slumdog Millionaire. • Beyond the film industry, the soulful singer has dived into fun-filled a cappella mash-ups with her group Raaga Trippin as well as independent gospel collaborations. • D’Mello is also a well-respected voice coach, working behind the scenes with famous stars. She earned plaudits for her work on the first-ever Indian production of the Broadway musical Beauty and the Beast.