Ilaiyaraaja’s Music Captures Gen Z Through Streaming and Reels

Ilaiyaraaja’s vast catalog of Tamil, Telugu, and Hindi songs has seen a resurgence among younger listeners, according to data from major streaming services. The composer’s tracks are climbing playlists and charts that are typically dominated by contemporary pop and hip‑hop.

Music‑curated reels on platforms like Instagram and TikTok have played a key role. Short clips of his melodies are being used as background music for user‑generated content, leading to viral trends that expose the composer’s work to a demographic that rarely listens to film soundtracks.

Industry analysts note that the combination of nostalgic appeal and modern distribution channels is creating a bridge between generations. The trend also highlights the growing importance of social media in shaping music consumption patterns in India.

While Ilaiyaraaja has been a staple of Indian cinema for decades, this new wave of streaming and reels is ensuring his legacy continues to resonate with the next generation.