With just a few days left to enter the New Year, a look back at 2006 highlights the abundant musical talent that the Tamil film industry encompasses.
With Rahman, Ilayaraja, Harris Jayaraj, Vidyasagar and Yuvan coming out with catchy tunes, the industry saw several songs topping the charts.
Rahman had his Ah Aah and Sillunu Oru Kadhal released this year. The films were decent hits and few songs were big hits. Mention can be made of 'Mayiliragae' from Ah Aah and 'Munbae Vaa' from Sillunu Oru Kadhal.
All eyes are now on Rahman, who is working for Rajinikanth's Sivaji. In Bollywood, Rahman is undoubtedly the number one, for, his work in Rang de Basanti and the latest Guru has won great accolades.
Vidyasagar, who had an excellent hit in Chandramukhi last year, had an average year. He scored music for several movies including Em Mahan and Sivapathikaram.
Srikanth Deva, who composed music for over half-a-dozen movies including E made a name for himself, coming up with foot-tapping numbers. Bharadwaj had his slice of luck in Thirupathi (directed by Perarasu for AVM Productions).
It was a contest between Yuvan Shankar Raja and Harris this year.
Yuvan had a long list of hits this year including Pudhupettai, Pattiyal and the recent Vallavan. His Loosu Pennae has become an anthem among the youth. Yuvan's tunes in Paruthi Veeran are already popular now.
Harris Jayaraj began the year with a bang. His songs in Ullam Ketkumae became popular. Vettaiyaadu Vilaiyaadu was also heard everywhere. His recent Telugu film Sainikudu brought him fame in Andhra Pradesh.
Joining the race at the last moment is G V Prakash. Nephew of A R Rahman, the 18-year-old boy's work in Veyyil has been appreciated by music-lovers.
Let's hope for an interesting contest next year too.