Narayan was born on December 1, 1955, in Supaul district, Bihar, India. He began his singing career at a young age, and won the All India Radio Music Competition in 1978. He made his Bollywood debut in 1980 with the song "Tere Bina Zindagi Se Koi Shikwa Nahin" from the film Dil Ka Heera.

Narayan has sung for many popular films, including Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge (1995), Kuch Kuch Hota Hai (1998), Devdas (2002), and Swades (2004). He has also sung for several independent albums and released his own single, "Tu Jahan Jaaye", in 2019.

Narayan is one of the most respected and admired singers in India. He is known for his melodious voice and his ability to sing a variety of genres. He has been credited with popularizing Indian music around the world.