Shillong Chamber Choir releases a new track as a tribute to founder Neil Nongkynrih

The internationally acclaimed Shillong Chamber Choir (SCC) has released a new track, ‘You came into our lives’, a heartfelt reflection on love, friendship and the transformative power of music. Written by the choir’s founder and mentor, Neil Nongkynrih, along with his friend, Deelip Kumar Sahu, the song is a moving tribute to Uncle Neil’s friends and family. Released on the occasion of his 55th birth anniversary (July 9), the song reflects the profound impact that he had on the lives of the choir members.

“I had almost forgotten this song until one day, a choir member reminded us. Listening to it again, we felt it was meant to be shared with all our listeners. It’s a thank you, a celebration of love, gratitude and the steadfast bonds that hold us together,” said Banlam Lyndem, Bass of the choir. The accompanying video, is a beautiful visualisation of Uncle Neil’s enduring presence — offering glimpses of cherished moments.

Founded in 2001 by composer, conductor and pianist Neil Nongkynrih, the SCC began as a small group of dedicated singers and dreamers under his mentorship. Over the past two decades, the ensemble has evolved into one of India’s celebrated musical groups, blending rich harmonies, emotional depth and technical brilliance. Winners of India’s Got Talent, 2010, the choir’s journey since then has been marked by a string of national and international accolades.

The choir new track ‘You came into our lives’ was written by Neil Nongkynrih, along with his friend, Deelip Kumar Sahu
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Renowned for their unique blend, their repertoire includes songs in 40 different languages ranging from Opera to Rock, Folk to Jazz, Hindustani classical to current chart toppers as well as major collaborations with Alan Walker, Boney M, Amitabh Bachchan and Ustad Zakir Hussain.

Neil Nongkynrih passed away in 2022, but his vision and artistry remain at the heart of the choir’s music. “More than just focusing on the voice, he worked on the individual. That’s perhaps why, nearly two decades later, we’re still here — singing together,” shared tenor William Basaiawmoit.

The choir is keeping Neil Nongkynrih’s memory alive through a range of projects.
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With the mentor’s passing, the choir continues to work on various projects — from their usual medleys to originals, albums in Khasi (native language of Meghalaya) to the opera, ‘Sohlyngngem’, composed by Neil. “We also have many unreleased songs on the shelf. Three of our music videos of Bollywood medleys in different styles of arrangements are being released by Saregama in August, September and October on various social media platforms,” said Kynsaibor Lyngdoh, manager of the choir.