Cornershop – Brimful of Asha
I just finished watching Deli Boys on Disney Plus and feeling sorry for the folks impacted by the fire near Heathrow. Somehow, this song came to me as I was attempting to do a post for my regular Friday update. This song was popular when I was in secondary school in Penang and the memories it brings back when I was seated in a science lab (which was made into our permanent class room) on the first floor. I used to compile my own weekly top 40 hits based on my own liking and include clippings of newspapers of the billboard charts.
Cornershop, an innovative English indie rock band formed in Leicester in 1991, is best known for their iconic single “Brimful of Asha.” This catchy tune, released in 1997, is a tribute to the legendary Indian playback singer Asha Bhosle and reflects the band’s unique blend of Indian music with British indie rock. Written by Tjinder Singh, the song’s lead vocalist and songwriter, “Brimful of Asha” became an international hit after a remix by Fatboy Slim propelled it to the top of the UK singles chart. The song not only celebrates the abundance of Asha Bhosle’s music but also explores themes of hope, escapism, and the immigrant experience. Its success marked a significant moment in British music history, bringing together indie rock and Bollywood influences in a way that resonated with a broad audience. “Brimful of Asha” remains a testament to Cornershop’s innovative approach to music, which has continued to inspire fans worldwide with its eclectic and culturally rich sound.