Remixes gave a new lease of life to several old songs, says DJ Aqeel who feels it was a healthy trend as it helped youngsters to connect with old melodies.

"Remixes are actually dead. Today, it is just new films' songs that are being remixed. We don't see old songs being remixed and presented to people. Remixes are the only way that helps today's generation to connect to old songs," Aqeel, who was instrumental in bringing the trend to fore, told.

He came into the limelight with "Shake it daddy remix", which became an instant hit and it was followed by another hit remix number "Tu, tu hai wahi".

In those days, "Shake it daddy remix" kick-started a new trend and several songs like "Saiyaan dil mein aana re", "Kaanta laga", "Sajna hai muzhe" and "Kaliyon ka chaman" were remixed and became chart toppers.

However, he is happy to see that club music scenario is changing.

"We have international DJs visiting India and performing here. This is a great thing," said the musician who is married to jewellery designer Farah Ali Khan, who is actor-filmmaker Sanjay Khan's daughter.

Aqeel has formed a band called Indian House Mafia with singer Sukhbir and DJ Suketu and their new album "Forever 2" has some original compositions by the trio. Universal Music will distribute it.

"One day all three of us were sitting together and just thought why not form a band and create music. We thought Sukhbir would put in his Punjabi touch, Suketu is more into Hindi music and I am into English, so our compositions will be a blend of all," he said.

With the advent of numerous online platforms, creating a music album is not a profitable option.

But Aqeel argues you don't always create music for profit.

"Sometimes they can be just for your fans. Everything cannot be done keeping in mind the business aspect. A lot of hard work has gone into creating 'Forever 2', and we hope that people like it," said Aqeel, who also features in the music video.