As tributes continue to pour in for legendary singer Asha Bhosle, who passed away on April 12, global artist Damon Albarn has joined voices from across the world in remembering the icon whose music resonated across generations and borders.
Asha Bhosle, whose voice shaped Indian cinema for more than eight decades, died at the age of 92. Her last rites were held with state honours on Monday at Mumbai’s Shivaji Park, where several figures from cinema, music and sport gathered to pay their respects.
On Tuesday, Albarn shared an emotional note on Instagram, recalling his admiration for the late singer. Alongside a set of old photographs believed to be taken at her Mumbai residence, the Gorillaz frontman reflected on his long-standing connection to her music.
In his tribute, Albarn described Bhosle’s voice as his “gateway” into Bollywood. He also wrote about meeting her in Mumbai and being struck by her presence and elegance even at the age of 91.
“Asha Bhosle was someone I had admired from afar for many years, her voice was my gateway to the marvellous world of Bollywood. I met her twice in Mumbai and was entranced by her grace and poise at the age of 91,” he wrote.
He also shared a personal memory that remained with him. “The memory of sitting cross-legged playing R. D. Burman’s harmonium while she sang will stay with me forever. I send my deepest condolences to her lovely family. Asha, you had the voice of an angel, we love you.”
Soon after the post was shared, fans responded with messages of admiration and grief, with many describing the tribute as heartfelt and remembering Bhosle as one of the greatest singers of all time.
Asha Bhosle’s influence extended far beyond Hindi film music. Over the years, she collaborated with artists across genres and generations, continually reinventing herself. One of her most unexpected late-career collaborations came with Gorillaz, where her voice blended with the band’s experimental sound on their 2026 album The Mountain.
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