Alongside the hustle and bustle of South Doheny Drive as motor cyclists who should muffle their engines—maybe this makes me sound like a cranky old lady but they are too bloody loud—whiz by, there is an island of South Asian calm at Chakra Indian restaurant. On Thursday, July 25, 2013 the restaurant hosted Kamal Khan, a London born Bollywood singer whose 12-song set spanned genres and languages all of which pleased his enthusiastic audience.
Between tasty bites of Chicken Tikka, traditional Samosas, and Gobi Manchurian, a yummy, softly battered, cauliflower dish that would allow even my children to gobble their veggies, the affable Kamal Khan chatted with his audience as he and his band made their final preparations for the set. It’s easy to understand why the restaurant is a favorite of stars such as Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt. Further testimony to the food’s excellence, the abundance of South Asian diners ordering seconds of everything.
In addition to a stellar Pinot Gris recommended by the helpful waiter, the meal was made all the more flavorful thanks to Khan’s mellifluous set.
Khan sings in Hindi and English and was accompanied by Chilean band mate Samy Gana on “Pariyon Ki Rani†a love ballad. “It’s about meeting someone special and not knowing when you’ll see them again,†said Khan about his first single. In addition to original work he covered Elvis Presley and Billy Joel but was at his best when performing his original work accompanied by his guitarists.
Khan, a graduate of the National Youth Theatre of London, moved to Los Angeles when he won a part on NBC’s “Outsourced†after working on stage and screen in the United Kingdom. “Los Angeles is the heart of the music and performing arts industry and I’m so excited to be working and living here. The energy and the vibe is perfect for shifting gears to music,†said Khan, as he commented about his new home.
The triple threat—he’s a model, actor and musician—is sure to find success in this City of Angels with his international and inspired music.
To see his video: http://youtu.be/4q8kLNmla6o
For more information on Chakra: http://www.ChakraCuisine.com
For more information on Kamal Khan: www.IAmKamalKhan.com
