Things are now easier for independent bands: Mohit Chauhan

SUKANT DEEPAK

It was in 1998, when his song 'Dooba Dooba' for the album 'Boondein', released by 'Silk Route' broke all records. And that was not the era when social media ruled. "Thanks to the Internet, things have become much easier for independent artists. We did not have any platforms back in 1998 that are available now," says singer Mohit Chauhan, who recently sang for the film 'Gehraiyaan'.

He does point out that not all changes have been for the better. Adding that back then, they would focus on originality and ensured that their music sounded different from film music, Chauhan feels that the line between independent and film music has blurred now. Now even music companies promote independent music, but a lot of the music sounds like the music from the films. Artistes must pay attention to originality. The audience must hear a distinct sound, not a familiar one."

Stressing that music is serious business and good song, with good lyrics, always touches people, he feels that at times social media tends to trivialize the whole experience. He says, "When some singers are too busy recording moments, the connection with real music is lost. They want to document everything, including the food on the table."

The singer, who was part of the recently-concluded 14th edition of the 'Kathakar: International Storytellers Festival' in the Capital, says that it is paramount for him to convey a social message through his work. "Climate change is something that disturbs me among other things. I have always had a fascination for nature, and what I feel about it comes across in my songs." Chauhan, who makes it a point to keep working on his own music even when he is busy with playback assignments, says that considering he started off in a band and when one creates a song only for himself with complete independence, the experience is completely different. "A song is like a story and when you write a story of your own, it truly represents a part of who you are."

Talking about 'Kathakaar', he says that stories hold a special power and travel across generations and beyond borders. "People contact us all year round to ask us when the festival is going to take place so they can bring their families along. It has been a resounding success," says this Cultural Envoy of Mongolia. Currently working on a new album and writing lyrics, he adds, "There are some playback projects as well. Several interesting things are around the corner." (IANS)