#A

It might seem like A.R. Rahman isn't "trending" as much as he used to, but the reality is quite different when you look at the data.
​In fact, A.R. Rahman was the fourth most-streamed artist in India on Spotify Wrapped 2025. While he may not always be in the "viral news" for a single catchy hook, he remains a powerhouse in the music world for several specific reasons:
​1. The "Slow Burn" Effect
​Unlike modern pop songs designed for instant TikTok or Reel virality, Rahman’s music is famous for being a "slow poison." * Complexity: His layers of mixing and unique song structures often take 4–5 listens to truly appreciate.
​Longevity vs. Trends: While a "trending" song might disappear in two weeks, Rahman’s tracks (like Kun Faya Kun or Tamasha songs) continue to chart for decades. Even in 2025, his older hits like Tere Bina and Raanjhanaa are still among his top-streamed tracks.
​2. Shifts in the Film Industry
​In recent interviews (January 2026), Rahman himself addressed why he has been less visible in certain markets like Bollywood recently:
​Power Shift: He noted that decision-making has moved from creative directors to music labels and "non-creative" executives who prefer splitting one movie among five different composers to get quick hits.
​Quality over Quantity: Rahman has stated he is "not in search of work" and prefers projects that offer creative freedom, such as his recent work on Chhaava (a 2025 hit) and his upcoming collaboration with Hans Zimmer for Ramayana.
​3. Focus on Global and Experimental Projects
​Rahman has shifted much of his energy toward international and tech-forward projects:
​Awards: In late 2025, he was honored with the Lakshminarayana International Award for his contribution to global music.
​New Tech: He has been exploring music in the metaverse and high-end virtual audio, which doesn't always make "mainstream" news but keeps him at the cutting edge of the industry.
​4. Recent "Trending" Moments
​If you feel he hasn't been in the news, you may have missed some major 2025/2026 highlights:
​Raayan (2024/25): Songs like Water Packet and Adangaatha Asuran were massive viral hits in South India.
​Chhaava (2025): His soundtrack for this film was widely praised as a return to his "epic" sound.
​2026 Releases: He just released an electronic mix of Enna Solla Pogirai and music for Gandhi Talks this January.
​Would you like me to find a playlist of his most recent 2025-2026 hits so you can hear what he’s been working on lately?