Hate Story IV song 'Badnaamiyan': 1990s-style number that may not hold much appeal today

Hindi film music from the last decade of the last millennium was one of its kind, very hard to describe. The songs had simple rhyming lyrics, not very poetic, with simple melodious tunes and a steady beat. Yet, the music was all the rage then.

The makers of Hate Story IV released the 'Badnaamiyan' track today, and it is one that will transport you back to the 1990s. However, the song may be 20 years too late, and may not appeal much to audiences today.

Penned by Rashmi Virag, 'Badnaamiyan' has a good mukhda, or introductory line: 'Zindgani ke lamho ko tere naam kar diya, khudko tere hi khatir badnaam kar diya', but what follows is unconvincing and one is immediately put off.

Virag, however, makes up with a poetic antara. The simple lyrics are backed by a soothing melodious score by the duo of Baman-Chand. Armaan Malik gives his soul to the song, but we suspect the singer would have hoped for better lyrics.

If you are an ardent admirer of the film music of the 1990s, 'Badnaamiyan' will take you back in time. However, does such a song appeal to audiences today? Maybe not, for Hindi film music has progressed a great deal since then. 'Badnaamiyan' isn’t a poor track, it is just not something that hits your senses. Few, if any, would listen to this song on loop.

However, if you are a Karan Wahi or Urvashi Rautela fan, then the sensuous visuals here will be a treat for your eyes. 

Watch the 'Badnamiyaan' track below: