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Jakes Bejoy
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Jakes Bejoy is an Indian film score and song composer and playback singer, primarily known for his work in Malayalam cinema, along with Tamil and Telugu films. He made his debut as a film composer with the Malayalam thriller Angels (2014) and has since established himself as a prominent film composer in Indian cinema.
Key Information
Education
[edit]Jakes Bejoy is trained in Carnatic music. Born in Kerala, India, he attained a Bachelor's degree in Electronics and Communication Engineering at the Rajagiri School of Engineering and Technology in Kochi, India.[1] Bejoy earned his master's degree in Music Science and Technology from Stanford University, USA.[2]
Career
[edit]Following Bejoy's graduate studies at Stanford, he became an intern at Activision Blizzard working on the Guitar Hero series. He also worked with the audio team at The Walt Disney Company on video games including Cars, Brave, and Toy Story 3.[3]
In 2013, Bejoy moved back to India to pursue more film composing work and received an offer to work on the Malayalam film Angels. He has since worked as Music Director and written music for successful Malayalam, Tamil and Telugu films such as Dhuruvangal Pathinaaru, Ranam, Queen, Swathanthryam Ardharathriyil, Monsoon Mangoes,[3][4] Taxiwala (starring Vijay Devarakonda, Telugu debut), Saripodha Sanivaram, and more recently, box-office record holders like Thudarum and Lokah Chapter 1: Chandra.
In 2021, Bejoy won "Best Music Director - Malayalam" at the South Indian International Movie Awards for his score for Ayyappanum Koshiyum, one of the highest-grossing films of 2020.[citation needed]
Bejoy is a member of the executive committee of FEFKA (Film Employees Federation of Kerala)’s Music Directors’ Union (FEMU).[5]
Discography
[edit]| † | Denotes film or TV productions that have not yet been released |
| Year | Title | Language | Songs | Background
Score |
Notes | Ref. |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2014 | Angels | Malayalam | Yes | Yes | Malayalam Debut | |
| 2015 | Thakka Thakka | Tamil | Yes | Yes | Tamil Debut | |
| 2016 | Monsoon Mangoes | Malayalam | Yes | Yes | [6] | |
| Kavi Uddheshichathu..? | Yes | Yes | [7] | |||
| Dhuruvangal Pathinaaru | Tamil | Yes | Yes | |||
| 2017 | Chennaiyil Oru Naal 2 | Yes | Yes | |||
| 2018 | Queen | Malayalam | Yes | Yes | [8] | |
| Mannar Vagaiyara | Tamil | Yes | Yes | |||
| Swathanthryam Ardharathriyil | Malayalam | Yes | No | |||
| Ranam | Yes | Yes | [8] | |||
| Taxiwala | Telugu | Yes | Yes | Telugu debut | [9] | |
| 2019 | The Gambinos | Malayalam | Yes | Yes | ||
| Mera Naam Shaji | No | Yes | ||||
| Ishq | Yes | Yes | ||||
| Suttu Pidikka Utharavu | Tamil | Yes | Yes | |||
| Kakshi: Amminippilla | Malayalam | No | Yes | |||
| Kalki | Yes | Yes | ||||
| Porinju Mariam Jose | Yes | Yes | ||||
| 2020 | Anveshanam | Yes | Yes | |||
| Ayyappanum Koshiyum | Yes | Yes | [8] | |||
| Mafia: Chapter 1 | Tamil | Yes | Yes | |||
| Forensic | Malayalam | Yes | Yes | |||
| 2 States | Yes | Yes | ||||
| Adho Andha Paravai Pola | Tamil | Yes | Yes | Unreleased | ||
| Mamakiki | Yes | Yes | Released on ZEE5 | |||
| Durgamati | Hindi | No | Yes | Hindi Debut Direct OTT release on Amazon Prime |
||
| 2021 | Operation Java | Malayalam | Yes | Yes | ||
| Chaavu Kaburu Challaga | Telugu | Yes | Yes | |||
| Kuruthi | Malayalam | Yes | Yes | [10] | ||
| Bhramam | Yes | Yes | ||||
| 2022 | Salute | Yes | Yes | [11] | ||
| Pathrosinte Padappukal | Yes | Yes | ||||
| Jana Gana Mana | Yes | Yes | ||||
| CBI 5 | Yes | Yes | [12] | |||
| Puzhu | Yes | Yes | [11] | |||
| Jack N' Jill | No | Yes | ||||
| Pakka Commercial | Telugu | Yes | Yes | |||
| Kaduva | Malayalam | Yes | Yes | |||
| Paappan | Yes | Yes | ||||
| Oke Oka Jeevitham | Telugu | Yes | Yes | |||
| Kanam | Tamil | Yes | Yes | |||
| Kotthu | Malayalam | No | Yes | |||
| Kumari | Yes | Yes | Also one of the producers | |||
| Saturday Night | Yes | Yes | ||||
| Aanaparambile WorldCup | Yes | Yes | ||||
| Kaapa | Yes | Yes | 1 song | |||
| 2023 | Iratta | Yes | Yes | |||
| Ayalvaashi | Yes | Yes | ||||
| Por Thozhil | Tamil | No | Yes | The film has no songs. | [13] | |
| Padmini | Malayalam | Yes | Yes | [8] | ||
| King of Kotha | Yes | Yes | ||||
| Garudan | Yes | Yes | [14] | |||
| Antony | Yes | Yes | [15] | |||
| 2024 | Malayalee from India | Yes | Yes | [16] | ||
| Secret | Yes | Yes | [17] | |||
| Saripodhaa Sanivaaram | Telugu | Yes | Yes | [18] | ||
| Adios Amigo | Malayalam | Yes | Yes | [19] | ||
| Nirangal Moondru | Tamil | Yes | Yes | [20] | ||
| Mechanic Rocky | Telugu | Yes | Yes | [21] | ||
| Hello Mummy | Malayalam | Yes | Yes | |||
| 2025 | Identity | Yes | Yes | [22] | ||
| Deva | Hindi | Yes | Yes | [23] | ||
| Officer on Duty | Malayalam | Yes | Yes | [24] | ||
| Thudarum | Yes | Yes | [25] | |||
| Narivetta | Yes | Yes | [26] | |||
| Lokah Chapter 1: Chandra | Yes | Yes | [27] | |||
| Paathirathri | Yes | Yes | [28] | |||
| Kaantha | Tamil | No | Yes | [29] | ||
| Vilayath Buddha | Malayalam | Yes | Yes | [30] | ||
| 2026 | Pallichattambi † | Yes | Yes | [31] | ||
| Khalifa † | Yes | Yes | [32] | |||
| Avaran † | Yes | Yes | [33] | |||
| Operation Cambodia † | Yes | Yes | [34] | |||
| Mollywood Times † | Yes | Yes | [35] | |||
| Kamal Haasan-237 † | Tamil | Yes | Yes | [36] | ||
| I'm Game † | Malayalam | Yes | Yes | |||
| Mohanlal-365 † | Yes | Yes | ||||
| Thudakkam † | Yes | Yes | ||||
| Lokah: Chapter 2 † | Yes | Yes | [40] |
References
[edit]- ^ "about". ccrma.stanford.edu. Retrieved 2 May 2024.
- ^ "I am in a comfortable space as a musician : Jakes Bejoy". The Hindu. 29 May 2019.
- ^ a b Nelluri, Maya (20 November 2018). "Interview with Jakes Bejoy about Taxiwaala". Idlebrain.com. Retrieved 7 May 2019.
- ^ Chowdary, Sunita (13 March 2018). "Jakes Bejoy to debut in Telugu with 'Taxiwala'". The Hindu. Retrieved 7 May 2019.
- ^ Service, Express News (18 August 2023). "INTERVIEW | We should celebrate indigenous music, says composer Jakes Bejoy". The New Indian Express. Retrieved 2 May 2024.
- ^ "Jakes Bejoy's magic in Monsoon Mangoes — Times of India". The Times of India. Retrieved 13 August 2017.
- ^ "Jakes Bejoy's latest songs get good response — Times of India". The Times of India. Retrieved 13 August 2017.
- ^ a b c d "Jakes Bejoy Interview: We should celebrate indigenous music". Cinema Express. 19 August 2023. Retrieved 27 October 2023.
- ^ "Vijay Deverakonda, GA2, UV Creations movie Worldwide Grand Release On May 18th — Idlebrain". idlebrain.com. Retrieved 23 February 2018.
- ^ "Jakes Bejoy on creating Vetta Mrigam from Kuruthi". The New Indian Express. 17 August 2021.
- ^ a b Menon, Vishal (19 April 2022). "A Song Is Never Over. You Can Keep Working On It Till Eternity: Jakes Bejoy". www.filmcompanion.in. Retrieved 27 October 2023.
- ^ "Changed the spirit of the background score in CBI 5 : Jakes Bejoy". Onmanorama. 3 May 2022.
- ^ "Whodunit with a twist". The New Indian Express. Archived from the original on 20 May 2023. Retrieved 31 May 2023.
- ^ "'Garudan' teaser: Suresh Gopi bashes up goons with a motorbike helmet". The Hindu. 26 June 2023. ISSN 0971-751X. Retrieved 26 October 2023.
- ^ "'Antony' teaser: Joju George and Kalyani Priyadarshan dazzle in the Joshiy directorial". The Times of India. 18 October 2023. ISSN 0971-8257. Retrieved 26 October 2023.
- ^ "Nivin Pauly-Dijo Jose Antony film's second schedule set to begin". Cinema Express. 25 May 2023. Retrieved 26 October 2023.
- ^ Features, C. E. (10 July 2024). "SN Swamy's directorial debut Secret gets a release date". Cinema Express. Retrieved 26 July 2024.
- ^ "Natural Star Nani's 'Saripodhaa Sanivaaram' gets a grand launch". The Times of India. 24 October 2023. ISSN 0971-8257. Retrieved 26 October 2023.
- ^ "Adios Amigo Review: A Quirky Road Movie With Its Share Of Fun Moments". Times Now. 9 August 2024. Retrieved 16 September 2024.
- ^ "Re-recording of Nirangal Moondru begins". Cinema Express. 4 June 2023. Retrieved 26 October 2023.
- ^ "Vishwak Sen, Ravi Teja Mullapudi, and Ram Talluri's #VS10 launched". The Times of India. 20 March 2023. ISSN 0971-8257. Retrieved 26 October 2023.
- ^ "Tovino Thomas and Trisha Krishnan-starrer 'Identity' enters final leg of shooting". The New Indian Express. 28 April 2024. Retrieved 23 June 2024.
- ^ "Here's what Shahid Kapoor and Pooja Hegde's Next will be called". Film Companion. 25 October 2023. Retrieved 26 October 2023.
- ^ Santhosh, Vivek (17 January 2025). "Kunchacko Boban's Officer on Duty gets a release date". Cinema Express. Retrieved 18 January 2025.
- ^ "'L360': Mohanlal's next to be directed by Tharun Moorthy; film to begin shoot in April". The Hindu. 18 March 2024. Retrieved 23 June 2024.
- ^ Features, C. E. (16 April 2025). "First single 'Minnalvala' from Tovino Thomas-starrer Narivetta is here". Cinema Express. Retrieved 17 April 2025.
- ^ Features, C. E. (8 June 2025). "Naslen-Kalyani Priyadarshan film titled Lokah Chapter One: Chandra". Cinema Express. Retrieved 8 June 2025.
- ^ "'Pathirathri': After Mammootty's 'Puzhu', director Ratheena to team up with Soubin Shahir and Navya Nair". The Times of India. 10 June 2024. Retrieved 23 June 2024.
- ^ "'Kaantha': Film's music director Jakes Bejoy calls director Selvamani Selvaraj Tamil cinema's 'New visionary'". The Times of India. 14 November 2025. ISSN 0971-8257. Retrieved 26 November 2025.
- ^ "Prithviraj Sukumaran's 'Vilayath Buddha' enters the final leg of shooting". The Times of India. 13 June 2023. ISSN 0971-8257. Retrieved 26 October 2023.
- ^ "Dijo Jose Antony's Palli Chattambi With Tovino Kicks Off Shoot | Filmfare.com". www.filmfare.com. Retrieved 26 November 2025.
- ^ https://www.cinemaexpress.com/malayalam/news/2025/Aug/04/prithviraj-sukumaran-boards-flight-to-london-as-khalifa-is-set-to-begin-filming
- ^ "Tovino Thomas announces his next film, 'Avaran'; first look out". The Hindu. 17 June 2024. Retrieved 23 June 2024.
- ^ https://english.mathrubhumi.com/movies-music/news/operation-cambodia-opj-sequel-prithviraj-sukumaran-iin1j41f
- ^ "Prithviraj joins 'Operation Cambodia': Tharun Moorthy's OPJ universe just got bigger". @mathrubhumi. 2 October 2025. Retrieved 26 November 2025.
- ^ https://www.thehindu.com/entertainment/movies/kh237-khaa-kamal-haasan-birthday-anbariv-masters-technical-team-jakes-bejoy-lokah-rkfi/article70251886.ece
- ^ Madhu, Vignesh (1 March 2025). "Dulquer Salmaan's next with Nahas Hidhayath titled I'm Game". Cinema Express. Retrieved 26 November 2025.
- ^ https://www.cinemaexpress.com/malayalam/news/2025/Sep/21/jakes-bejoy-to-compose-music-for-mohanlals-new-film-l-365
- ^ https://www.cinemaexpress.com/malayalam/news/2025/Oct/30/vismaya-mohanlals-acting-debut-thudakkam-launched
- ^ https://www.thehindu.com/entertainment/movies/lokah-chapter-1-sequel-chapter-2-tovino-thomas-dulquer-salmaan-neeli-chaathan-kalyani-priyadarshan/article70101318.ece
External links
[edit]- Jakes Bejoy at IMDb
Jakes Bejoy
View on GrokipediaEarly life and education
Early life
Jakes Bejoy was born on May 27, 1984, in Erattupetta, a town in the Kottayam district of Kerala, India.[5] He grew up in a supportive family environment, with his parents, Bejoy Jacob and Shammy Bejoy, playing a pivotal role in nurturing his early interests.[6] From childhood, Bejoy was deeply influenced by the Carnatic music traditions prevalent in Kerala, beginning his training in classical music under parental encouragement, which instilled a strong foundation in melodic structures and rhythms.[6][1] This early immersion in Carnatic songs shaped his formative years in Erattupetta, fostering a passion for music that extended into his later pursuits.[1]Education
Jakes Bejoy began his formal musical training in Carnatic music during his childhood in Kerala, where he developed foundational skills in classical forms such as ragas and talas under the encouragement of his family.[6] He pursued higher education in engineering, earning a Bachelor's degree in Electronics and Communication Engineering from Rajagiri School of Engineering & Technology in Kochi, affiliated with Mahatma Gandhi University.[7] This technical foundation provided him with knowledge in electronics and signal processing, which later complemented his musical pursuits.[8] Following his undergraduate studies, Bejoy moved to the United States to advance his expertise at the intersection of technology and music, completing a Master's degree in Music, Science, and Technology from Stanford University's Center for Computer Research in Music and Acoustics (CCRMA) between 2008 and 2010.[9] After graduation, he worked as a software engineer at Disney Mobile in California until 2013.[10] The program, which accepts a limited number of students annually, emphasized the integration of engineering principles with artistic composition through courses and projects in computer music, audio synthesis, and interactive media.[10] His research focus included sound design and spatial audio, exemplified by the 16-channel project Give Peace a Chance, a narrative-driven work that explored storytelling solely through immersive soundscapes without visual elements.[11] During his time at Stanford, Bejoy participated in academic collaborations such as the Stanford Laptop Orchestra (SLOrk), an ensemble that utilized custom laptop-based instruments and software for live performances, bridging electronic engineering with experimental music production.[12] This involvement honed his skills in real-time audio processing and collaborative composition using digital tools.[11]Professional career
Early career
Following his graduation from Stanford University, Jakes Bejoy began his professional career in the United States with an internship in the audio engineering team at Activision Blizzard from June to December 2009. During this period, he contributed to the Guitar Hero series, including Guitar Hero 5, where he implemented sound effects through scripting and maintained the sound library using tools like Sound Miner; he also handled similar audio design tasks for Band Hero.[13][10] Bejoy then joined The Walt Disney Company as an audio software engineer from May 2011 to May 2013, working in the game audio division on several prominent titles. His responsibilities included sound engineering and implementation for video games such as Cars, Cars 2, Toy Story 3, Brave, and the mobile game TapTap Revenge, where he focused on integrating audio elements to enhance gameplay immersion.[10][13] From 2007 onward, during his undergraduate studies in India and later while pursuing his studies and early professional roles in the US, Bejoy engaged in independent music production, building on his prior release of the Malayalam album Malayalee and collaborating with a core team of musicians to create original tracks blending electronic and orchestral elements.[10][6] In 2013, Bejoy returned to India to explore opportunities in music composition, establishing a studio in Chennai and initially focusing on non-film projects amid a challenging transition period of three to four years. Upon his return, he became involved in industry organizations, joining the executive committee of the FEFKA Music Directors’ Union (FEMU), where he contributes to initiatives supporting composers, including plans for music festivals and a dedicated YouTube channel.[14][10][1]Film debut and breakthrough
Jakes Bejoy made his debut as a film composer with the 2014 Malayalam thriller Angels, directed by Jean Markose and starring Indrajith Sukumaran in the lead role.[15] For this social thriller, he crafted a soundtrack blending classical Indian elements with contemporary electronic sounds, marking his initial foray into cinematic scoring after prior work in gaming audio.[15] The album features seven tracks, including the duet "Etho Navikar," which Bejoy co-sang with Gayathri Varthini, showcasing his early contributions as a playback singer alongside established voices like Arvind Venugopal.[16] While the film's reception was modest, with limited box-office success as a low-budget production, Bejoy's score received appreciation for its atmospheric tension, helping establish his reputation for innovative fusion in Malayalam music. Following Angels, Bejoy composed for several early Malayalam films that honed his distinctive style, emphasizing genre-blending and experimental sounds. In Monsoon Mangoes (2016), a comedy-drama starring Fahadh Faasil, his soundtrack incorporated retro funk and lively rhythms, with tracks like the title song earning praise for their catchy horns and upbeat energy that complemented the film's quirky, Wes Anderson-inspired visuals.[17][18] The album was described as neat and non-disappointing, though not groundbreaking, solidifying his growing presence in the industry.[17] Subsequent works like Kavi Uddheshichathu..? (2016) allowed him to merge rock and folk influences, while Ranam (2018), a neo-noir thriller with Prithviraj Sukumaran, featured synth-pop elements in the title track, which gained popularity for its pulsating electronic beats and rap-infused vocals, further building his versatility in scoring action-oriented narratives.[19] These projects, including playback singing roles, gradually elevated Bejoy's profile by demonstrating his ability to adapt electronic and fusion techniques to diverse storytelling needs in Malayalam cinema. He also provided the background score for the 2020 Malayalam thriller Forensic.[3] Bejoy's breakthrough arrived with Ayyappanum Koshiyum (2020), a critically acclaimed action-drama directed by Sachy and starring Prithviraj Sukumaran and Biju Menon, which became one of the highest-grossing Malayalam films of the year.[20] His background score innovatively integrated tribal folk songs performed by native artists from the Attappady region, infusing the narrative with authentic Kerala indigenous sounds that heightened the film's rural tensions and cultural depth.[21][22] While some critics noted the score's intensity as occasionally overpowering, it was widely commended for its commendable use of tribal elements and overall impact, earning particular appreciation from the Attappady community for authentically representing their music.[22] This work propelled Bejoy to prominence, culminating in the SIIMA Award for Best Music Director in Malayalam in 2021.[23]Expansion and collaborations
Following his breakthrough in Malayalam cinema, Jakes Bejoy expanded his compositional work into Tamil films, beginning with the background score for the thriller Dhuruvangal Pathinaaru (2016), directed by Karthick Naren. This project showcased his ability to craft tense, atmospheric scores that amplified the film's nonlinear narrative and psychological suspense, using subtle orchestral elements and electronic motifs to build unease without overpowering the dialogue-driven plot. The score's minimalist approach, featuring tracks like "Welcome to My Story," contributed to the film's critical acclaim as a taut thriller, earning praise for enhancing its twist-laden structure. Bejoy's entry into Telugu cinema came with Taxiwala (2018), a supernatural comedy-thriller directed by Rahul Sankrityan and starring Vijay Deverakonda, marking his debut in the industry.[8] The film's soundtrack, including the hit song "Maate Vinadhuga," blended upbeat rhythms with eerie undertones to match the story's ghostly taxi premise, helping propel the movie to commercial success with over 100 crore in box-office earnings across South India.[10] This collaboration broadened Bejoy's recognition beyond Malayalam audiences, establishing him as a versatile composer capable of adapting to Telugu cinema's mass-appeal sensibilities while retaining his signature fusion of folk and contemporary sounds.[24] Subsequent Telugu works include the action film Saripodhaa Sanivaaram (2024).[3] Key partnerships further solidified Bejoy's cross-industry presence, notably his work with director Sachy on Ayyappanum Koshiyum (2020), a Malayalam action-drama that became a benchmark for his scoring techniques.[25] Sachy's vision emphasized rhythmic percussion and regional folk influences to underscore the film's themes of ego and rural conflict, resulting in a score widely praised for its integration of tribal elements. Bejoy also collaborated on multi-language projects, such as the Telugu remake Oke Oka Jeevitham (2022), a horror-thriller adaptation of the Malayalam Helen, where he reworked motifs to suit bilingual audiences, partnering with actors like Sree Vishnu for heightened emotional resonance. His work extended to the multilingual gangster film King of Kotha (2023).[2]Recent works
In 2025, Jakes Bejoy delivered music for multiple high-profile films, marking a prolific phase in his career with a mix of Malayalam, Telugu, and Hindi projects. For the Malayalam political action thriller Narivetta, directed by Anuraj Manohar and starring Tovino Thomas, Bejoy composed the full soundtrack, including the duet "Minnalvala" featuring Sid Sriram and Sithara Krishnakumar, which blends rhythmic percussion and melodic hooks to underscore the film's tense narrative of rebellion and justice.[26] The album, released under Sony Music, also features "Vaada Veda" with lyrics by Vedan, emphasizing emotional depth through folk-infused arrangements that align with the story's themes of resistance.[27] Similarly, in Officer on Duty, a Malayalam investigation drama starring Kunchacko Boban and directed by Jithu Ashraf, Bejoy crafted an energetic score with tracks like "Neon Ride," sung by Baby Jean, Ramya RamC, and Zeba Tommy, incorporating electronic beats and synth layers to heighten the film's suspenseful chases and procedural elements.[28] The soundtrack, comprising 37 cues, was praised for its pulsating rhythm section that mirrors the protagonist's high-stakes pursuit.[29] He also composed for the superhero film Lokah: Chapter 1 - Chandra (2025) and the musical drama Paathirathri (2025).[30][31] Bejoy expanded into Hindi cinema with Deva, an action film directed by Rosshan Andrrews and starring Shahid Kapoor and Pooja Hegde, where he composed the background score and contributed tracks like "Marji Cha Maalik," performed by Shreyas, featuring aggressive rap verses and orchestral swells to amplify the movie's gritty underworld confrontations.[32] This project marked his Bollywood debut, collaborating with Vishal Mishra on select songs, and the album's fusion of hip-hop and symphonic elements supported the narrative's themes of vengeance and loyalty.[33] Building on the success of his 2023 work in King of Kotha, where he handled the score and five songs blending hip-hop and rock for its gangster saga, Bejoy incorporated similar high-energy motifs in these 2025 releases, achieving three consecutive commercial hits including Officer on Duty, Thudarum (starring Mohanlal), and Narivetta.[34] Beyond composition, Bejoy took on playback singing duties in 2025, lending his vocals to a track in L2: Empuraan, the Mohanlal-Prithviraj Sukumaran sequel, adding a raw, introspective layer to its epic action sequences.[35] Looking ahead, he is set to score upcoming projects in 2026, such as the Malayalam film Centimeter directed by Santhosh Sivan, slated for October release, and Kamal Haasan's KH 237, with principal photography beginning early next year to explore ambitious orchestral soundscapes.[36][37] Additionally, Bejoy has joined the team for the Telugu action drama Mysaa starring Rashmika Mandanna and the Naslen K. Gafoor-led Mollywood Times, signaling continued diversification across languages. He is also attached to the action thriller Khalifa (2026).[38][34][4]Musical style and influences
Influences
Jakes Bejoy's musical foundations were profoundly shaped by Carnatic music, which he began studying in childhood with encouragement from his parents in Erattupetta, Kerala. This early immersion in classical South Indian forms instilled a deep appreciation for intricate rhythms, melodic structures, and improvisational techniques inherent to the tradition. He underwent formal Carnatic training for several years, crediting it with forming the bedrock of his compositional sensitivity to tonal nuances and cultural resonance. Bejoy has expressed admiration for influential figures in this realm, including Malayalam music directors Johnson Master, G. Devarajan Master, and Vidyadharan Master, whose works blend classical elements with regional storytelling, inspiring his own approach to evoking emotional depth through traditional motifs. His exposure to Western musical paradigms expanded significantly during his master's studies in Music Science and Technology at Stanford University, where he specialized in areas like orchestral music and computer-based composition. At Stanford's Center for Computer Research in Music and Acoustics (CCRMA), a hub for innovative sound experimentation, Bejoy encountered the legacies of electronic music pioneers such as John Chowning, whose development of frequency modulation synthesis revolutionized digital audio. This academic environment broadened his worldview, integrating electronic production techniques with acoustic traditions and introducing him to global music technology that emphasized synthesis and spatial audio design. Bejoy draws inspiration from acclaimed film composers, particularly A.R. Rahman, whom he regards as a favorite for seamlessly fusing Indian classical roots with contemporary orchestration. He also cites Western film scorers like Hans Zimmer, Ennio Morricone, Alexandre Desplat, Jóhann Jóhannsson, Ludwig Göransson, Trent Reznor, and Atticus Ross for their narrative-driven soundscapes that blend orchestral grandeur with electronic textures. Additionally, his professional engagements in game audio have influenced him through the innovative practices of international sound designers, who prioritize immersive, interactive sonic environments to enhance storytelling. In interviews, Bejoy has emphasized the importance of celebrating indigenous music traditions, stating, “We should give due credit, and celebrate, the work of indigenous communities.” This perspective reflects his commitment to honoring folk and tribal forms from regions like Attappadi and Wayanad, viewing them as vital sources of authentic cultural expression that enrich his artistic palette.[14]Compositional approach
Jakes Bejoy's compositional approach draws heavily from his engineering background in electronics and music technology, where he studied at Stanford University's Center for Computer Research in Music and Acoustics (CCRMA), enabling him to integrate advanced software tools and synthesizers into his film scores.[9][39] Prior to his full-time music career, he worked as a software engineer at Disney Mobile in California, skills that inform his use of digital audio workstations and programming paradigms for precise sound design and layering.[40] This technical foundation allows him to blend live instrumentation, such as guitars and keyboards, with programmed electronic elements, creating hybrid textures that enhance narrative tension in films. A hallmark of Bejoy's method is the fusion of indigenous Kerala folk traditions with contemporary electronic sounds, often researching over 300 regional folk styles to authentically incorporate them into scores.[14] For instance, in the thriller Ayyappanum Koshiyum (2020), he recorded Kalakkatha folk rhythms with an Adivasi troupe from Attappadi, layering them with keyboard samples to evoke cultural depth while maintaining a modern edge.[14] Similarly, in Kuruthi (2021), he employed Nordic folk instruments like the tagelharpa and shaman drums alongside subtle electronic ambience to mirror the film's forested, tense atmosphere, avoiding conventional regional motifs for a universal yet grounded feel.[41] In Ranam (2018), he incorporated Western influences to craft a noir-inspired score, emphasizing rhythmic propulsion in thriller sequences.[14] Bejoy's approach to playback singing prioritizes emotional resonance through melody and lyrics, selecting vocalists whose timbre aligns with character subtexts to deepen audience connection.[14] He collaborates with diverse singers, including actors for authenticity, as in Padmini (2023)'s Aalmara Kaaka, where a folk melody conveys longing and cultural pride.[14] This technique ensures songs serve the film's emotional arc, with Bejoy often iterating on lyrics to heighten introspective depth, drawing briefly from influences like A.R. Rahman in structuring melodic builds.[6]Awards and recognition
Major awards
Jakes Bejoy received the Best Music Director award in the Malayalam category at the 9th South Indian International Movie Awards (SIIMA) in 2021 for his score in the film Ayyappanum Koshiyum.[42] The ceremony took place on September 18–19, 2021, at the Hyderabad International Convention Centre, honoring outstanding achievements in South Indian cinema from 2019 and 2020 releases. His composition for Ayyappanum Koshiyum, a critically acclaimed action-drama directed by Sachy that became one of the highest-grossing Malayalam films of 2020 with over ₹30 crore in worldwide collections, was praised for its intense and atmospheric background score that enhanced the film's narrative tension.[43] This win marked a pivotal early recognition in Bejoy's career, solidifying his reputation as a rising talent in Malayalam film music and leading to increased opportunities in subsequent high-profile projects.[23]Other honors
In addition to his major award wins, Jakes Bejoy has received several nominations and informal recognitions for his musical contributions. In 2025, he was nominated for the Septimius Award in the Best Soundtrack category for his work on the Malayalam film Narivetta, highlighting his growing international profile.[23] Bejoy serves as a member of the executive committee of the Film Employees Federation of Kerala (FEFKA) Music Directors’ Union (FEMU), a role he assumed around 2023, where he engages with industry veterans to advocate for music composers' interests and foster collaborations within the Malayalam film community.[14] Bejoy has been featured in prominent media outlets for his evolving career and compositional insights. In 2023, he discussed his approach to indigenous music and career transitions in an interview with The New Indian Express.[14] Subsequent profiles in 2024 with Cinema Express explored his balance of commercial trends and enduring scores in Telugu projects like Saripodhaa Sanivaaram, while a 2025 New Indian Express feature covered his surprise involvement in high-profile tracks.[44][45] Specific tracks have garnered significant fan and critical praise, underscoring Bejoy's appeal beyond formal accolades. The song "Kalapakkaara" from King of Kotha (2023) went viral on social media, praised for its energetic fusion of folk and contemporary elements that resonated widely with audiences.[46] Similarly, his score for Lokah: Chapter One – Chandra (2025) received acclaim for its pulsating rhythms and evocative soundscapes, enhancing the film's world-building and earning positive mentions in reviews.[47]Discography
Malayalam films
Jakes Bejoy has composed original scores and soundtracks for over 40 Malayalam films as of 2025, marking his primary domain in South Indian cinema.[48] His work spans thrillers, dramas, and action films, often blending contemporary orchestration with regional musical textures. The following table provides a chronological overview of his Malayalam film compositions, including release year, director, and selected key tracks where particularly representative of his style.| Year | Film Title | Director | Key Tracks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2014 | Angels | Asif Kuraishi | "The Angels Theme" |
| 2016 | Monsoon Mangoes | Ajith M. Pillai | "Monsoon Mangoes Theme" |
| 2016 | Kavi Uddheshichathu? | V. K. Prakash | "Kavi Theme" |
| 2018 | Swathanthryam Ardharathriyil | Alan Packiaraj | "Swathanthryam" |
| 2018 | Ranam (Detroit Crossing) | Nirmal Sahadev | "Ranam Title Track" |
| 2018 | Queen | Dijo Jose Antony | "Vennilave" |
| 2019 | Kakshi Amminippilla | Sreejith Vijayan | "Kakshi Theme" |
| 2019 | Porinju Mariam Jose | Joshiy | "Kinavu Kondu" |
| 2019 | Kalki | Praveen Morose | "Kalki Theme" |
| 2019 | Ishq | Anuraj Manohar | "Ishq Theme" |
| 2020 | Ayyappanum Koshiyum | Sachy | "Kalakkatha Sandana Meram", "Ariyathariyathe" |
| 2020 | Anveshanam | Sudev Pushpakar | "Anveshanam Suite" |
| 2020 | Forensic | Akhil Paul, Anas Khan | "Forensic Theme" |
| 2020 | 2 States | Arun Kumar | "2 States Anthem" |
| 2021 | Operation Java | Tharun Moorthy | "Java Pursuit" |
| 2021 | Kuruthi | Manu Warrier | "Kuruthi Tension" |
| 2022 | Pathrosinte Padappukal | Shahi Kabir | "Pathrosinte Theme" |
| 2022 | Salute | Rosshan Andrrews | "Salute March" |
| 2022 | Jana Gana Mana | Dijo Jose Antony | "Jana Gana Mana Anthem" |
| 2022 | Jack N Jill | A. B. Biju | "Jack N Jill Fun" |
| 2022 | Kaduva | Shaji Kailas | "Kaduva Roar" |
| 2022 | Paappan | M. Padmakumar | "Paappan Emotional" |
| 2022 | Kotthu | Abhinav Sunder Nayak | "Kotthu Rhythm" |
| 2022 | Kumari | Nirmal Sahadev | "Kumari Melody" |
| 2022 | Aanaparambile World Cup | Jithu K. Jayan | "World Cup Fever" |
| 2023 | Iratta | Rohit M.G. Krishnan | "Iratta Thriller" |
| 2023 | Padmini | Senna Hegde | "Padmini Folk" |
| 2023 | King of Kotha | Abhinav Sunder Nayak | "King of Kotha Rap" |
| 2023 | Garudan | Sreejith Vijayan | "Garudan Action" |
| 2023 | Antony | Adwaith | "Antony Pursuit" |
| 2023 | Ayalvaashi | Jibu Jacob | "Ayalvaashi Comedy" |
| 2023 | Enthadaa Saji? | Rifath Junaid | "Enthadaa Theme" |
| 2024 | Malayalee From India | Dijo Jose Antony | "Malayalee Pride" |
| 2024 | Adios Amigo | Jithu K. Jayan | "Adios Theme" |
| 2024 | Hello Mummy | Vaishakh Elan | "Hello Mummy Fun" |
| 2024 | Secret | Nishad Hyder | "Secret Melody" |
| 2025 | Officer on Duty | Ahammed Khabeer | "Officer Duty March" (released February 20, 2025) |
| 2025 | Narivetta | Anuraj Manohar | "Narivetta Suspense" (released May 23, 2025) |
| 2025 | Lokah: Chapter 1 - Chandra | Dominic Arun | "Lokah Theme" (released August 28, 2025) |
| 2025 | Paathirathri | Not specified | "Paathirathri Track" |
| 2025 | Khalifa | Not specified | "Khalifa Anthem" |
Tamil and Telugu films
Jakes Bejoy expanded his compositional reach into Tamil and Telugu cinema following his Malayalam successes, blending rhythmic energy with melodic depth suited to these industries' diverse storytelling. His Tamil works often feature introspective tracks that enhance thriller and drama narratives, while Telugu compositions emphasize high-energy anthems for action and romantic genres. This cross-regional involvement highlights his adaptability, with scores that incorporate local linguistic nuances and cultural rhythms.[49] Key Tamil films include collaborations with directors like Boopathy Pandian and Karthik Naren, where Bejoy's music underscores emotional and suspenseful elements. In Telugu, his debut with Taxiwala marked a breakthrough, followed by projects that fused electronic beats with folk influences. Standout contributions often revolve around theme integrations rather than isolated songs, though select tracks have gained popularity for their infectious hooks.[2]| Year | Film | Director | Standout Songs |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2018 | Mannar Vagaiyara | Boopathy Pandian | "Yen Azhagiye" |
| 2019 | Suttu Pidikka Utharavu | Manimaran | "Suttu Pidikka" |
| 2019 | Agni Devi | J. A. Ganesh | "Agni Devi Theme" |
| 2020 | Adho Andha Paravai Pola | Vinoth | "Adho Andha Paravai" |
| 2020 | Mafia: Chapter 1 | Lokesh Kanagaraj | "Mafia Theme" |
| 2022 | Centimeter | Santosh Sivan | "Centimeter Theme" |
| 2022 | Kanam | Shree Karthick | "Kanam Melody" |
| 2023 | Por Thozhil | Vignesh Raja | "Aalapol Velapol" |
| 2024 | Nirangal Moondru | Karthik Naren | "Nirangal" (released November 22, 2024) |
| 2025 | Lokah: Chapter 1 - Chandra | Dominic Arun | "Thani Lokah Murakkaari" (released August 28, 2025) |
| Year | Film | Director | Standout Songs |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2018 | Taxiwala | Rahul Sankrityan | "Oh My Lily", "Choti Choti Baatein" |
| 2021 | Chaavu Kaburu Challaga | Ruja Madhuvan | "Chaavu Kaburu" |
| 2022 | Oke Oka Jeevitham | Shree Karthick | "Maate Vinadhuga" |
| 2022 | Pakka Commercial | Saagar K Chandu | "Pakka Theme" |
| 2024 | Mechanic Rocky | Ram Abbaraju | "Rocky Theme" |
| 2024 | Saripodhaa Sanivaaram | Vivek Athreya | "Saripodhaa" |
| 2025 | Kotha Lokah: Chapter 1 - Chandra | Dominic Arun | "Thani Lokah" (released August 28, 2025) |
