‘Music is not dependent on films; not anymore’ says singer Nikhita Gandhi,
An interview by Cindrella Daryani
Indian singer of international repute, Nikhita Gandhi has recently been quite busy with her latest India tour, along with her much-anticipated international collaborations as well as Bollywood and Tollywood projects.
She has received significant recognition, appreciation, and love from her growing band of fans for her soulful, hip hop, jazz, folk fusion, and other genres of music. Her music is multi-faceted and reflects her personality. She has been lauded for songs such as ‘Jugnu’, ‘She’s on fire’ from ‘Dhaakad’, ‘Raat Rani’ from ‘Modern Love: Mumbai’.
In an exclusive interview with NewsKarnataka, Gandhi talks about her experience of working in the South, her reunion with Badshah and her international collaborations.
Excerpts:
Q. In the last few years, we have seen a shift towards background scores in movies as opposed to full-fledged songs. What is your take on this development?
Yes, because I think there is more realism in the films of today, which is wonderful! As a musician, I am not too worried because music in the future is also not going to be dependent on films; indeed we are seeing the emergence of rockstars and popstars and not just playback singers!
Q. The popularity of non-film songs is growing more than the popularity of film songs. Is it because movies are becoming more realistic now, or is it because people are more likely to enjoy non-film songs? What are your thoughts on this change?
I think you pretty much summed up my point! In essence, it is both: films are more realistic and there is a little less inter-dependence between the two industries.
Q. In recent months, many songs in South Indian films have received a lot of attention. How has your experience been working in the South?
I started my journey with the Tamil film industry. My first song was Ladio from the film ‘I’ and I got a chance to work with AR sir, Ani, Harris Jayaraj and so many stellar composers from the south! It feels great as a north Indian to be so well accepted in these industries and feels even more wonderful to see them able to garner a pan Indian audience!
Q. The music industry, live performances and album sales were severely impacted during the pandemic. What is the status of the music industry today – has it improved?
I think things are better now. Everyone is gigging and getting work. So, there is not really much need for reinvention except to have a slightly more appreciative attitude towards life in general.
Q. Following Jugnu, you worked again with Badshah, singing the song ‘She’s on Fire’. Tell us about your experience working with him?
He is a wonderful person. It is great to work with him because he is grounded, hardworking, fun, and easy to get along with.
Q. How do you see the growth opportunities for music in the OTT space?
Music is surely picking up on OTT. There are new voices in music, thanks to this new avenue and platform! There are both veterans and newcomers that keep things fresh and exciting.
Q. Could you please tell us something more about your upcoming projects including international collaborations?
A lot of collaborations are coming up! My collaboration with Canadian artist CARYS will have a re-spun Hinglish version of her song “Princesses Don’t Cry” released this weekend. Besides, the following week, another song will be released that I have co-written with Sid Bhosle “Tu Hi Bata”. So, stay tuned for the whole list of collaborations and keep sharing the love!
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