One of my favorite movies as a kid was Bombay to Goa and for some reason I was always amused at the scene with Usha Uthup (then Iyer) going crazy with the song requests from Amitabh Bachchan and Aruna Irani’s characters. It was then my parents used to tell me stories about her singing at Talk of The Town (now known as Not Just Jazz By The Bay). Since I grew up in the U.S I had no idea how iconic the place was until I moved here. Being the first Indian singer to embrace and add a jazz twist to her songs she’s been a true inspiration for singers who sought to do something different. On her birthday let’s take a look at some of her  iconic songs!

One Two Cha Cha Cha – Shalimar

This song was one of the many successful collaborations Uthup had with RD Burman and was her first milestone in Bollywood which even earned her a Filmfare nomination.

Doston Se Pyar Kiya – Shaan

Uthup with her signature saris, red bindi and flowers in her hair was once banned from singing in all state-owned buildings by the head of the communist party in West Bengal for her “decadent” style.

Daud – Daud

This was the first time Uthup collaborated with the AR Rahman and though the film didn’t fare well this song along with the rest of the soundtrack managed to make a mark.

Koi Yahan Aha Nache Nache – Disco Dancer

Besides RD Burman Uthup had a very strong relationship with disco king Bappi Lahiri, this was one of their biggest hits!

Ramba Ho – Armaan

Uthup received Rs.3,500 for her first album which was recorded with Luis Banks!

Hari Om Hari – Pyaara Dushman

Uthup now lives in Kolkata with her husband and children, where she is considered an icon and is actively in the city.

Darling – 7 Khoon Maaf

After years, Uthup resurfaced onto the Bollywood scene with this song which has become one of the biggest songs of 2011.