Michael Canitrot: Hypnotised by Aishwarya Rai

By Deccan Herald

As an official DJ at the Cannes International Film Festival, 28-year-old Michael Canitrot has created and played background music for virtually all international film celebrities as they walk the red carpet at the world’s most prestigious film festival.

But what has “hypnotised” him is the impeccable beauty of Aishwarya Rai whom he has been watching every year at Cannes for the last eight years. “I haven't seen any Indian movies but I am hypnotised by Aishwarya Rai. She is a famous star in France,” says Michael, who was in the Capital recently to play his first ever gig at Hotel Taj Palace.

A popular figure in some of Paris, Miami and Tokyo’s biggest nightclubs, Michael’s style ranges from a melodic blend of house to even Latino and classical. Michael creates custom sound designs for luxury brands such as Dior, Cartier, Versace, D&G and Prada and provides live music and performance for some of the world’s most prestigious catwalk shows.

Michael seeks inspiration within his family which has been a big fan of music of various genres. “I belong to a musical family. When I was young, I used to hear my mother listening to Michael Jackson and Marvin Gaye. She was a big fan of black music. My father on the other hand used to enjoy rock. I grew up listening to these genres. I try to bring this background of pop, rock and black music into contemporary music through my electronic singles,” he shares.

He creates and plays music for fashion shows, nightclubs and films, but his first love is to play live. “I love to play music for people who love it. My first passion has always been to play live and create music in sync with people’s emotions,” he adds.

Michael does not follow Indian music religiously, though he finds it very pleasant and positive. “I do not follow Indian music but have had a chance to make music for many Indian films and stars during Cannes. I feel Indian music makes me happy. At the same time, the vibe and the tempo makes it great for partying,” smiles the DJ.

Having heard a lot about India as a spiritual country, Michael was overwhelmed to play in a country full of vibrant colours and joy. “India inspires people. I am overwhelmed to play here for the first time,” says Michael, who was here on a day-long trip. He promises to come back for a longer stay. “The first place that I would love to visit is the beautiful Taj Mahal.

Unfortunately, I do not have the time and it is usually like this when we are on a tour. But I would want to take out time and come back here to visit not only Delhi but lots of other places too,” he says.

Perhaps make an extra stop and meet Aishwarya Rai? “If I could contact Aishwarya, I would definitely invite her for a drink!” We hope you manage it too, Michael!