Music Director K J Joy passes away

Chennai: Renowned music director K J Joy breathed his last early on Monday morning after a prolonged battle with illness. Joy, a native of Nellikunnu in Thrissur, composed music for over 200 films, after debuting in the movie ‘Love Letter’ in 1975.

The 77-year-old maestro, known for his soulful compositions and timeless melodies, died at his Chennai residence at 2.30 am. Joy, who had been in Chennai for a long time, was bedridden after a stroke. Joy’s relevance lies in bringing systems, including keyboards, to Malayalam cinema in the 70s. Joy was known as the first ‘Techno Musician’ in the Malayalam film music world.

Joy’s compositions for films, including Ivanente Priyaputran, Chandanachola, Aaradhana, Snehayamuna, Mukkuvane Snehicha Bhootham, Lisa, Madalasa, Sayujyam, Itha Oru Theeram, Anupallavi, Sarppam, Sakthi, Hridayam Paadunnu, Chandrahasam, Manushyamrigam and Karimboocha, were well-received among the audience. On the occasion of K J Joy’s 77th birth anniversary, a musical collective called ‘Paattupeedika’ paid tribute to him by singing songs composed by him. Joy had then also participated in the event.