Tell us about your journey as an artist?
I have been a fan of music since I was a little kid. My journey started with singing on the school bus with my friends, performing in front of the whole school, and writing my songs.
What inspired you to pursue music, and how did your journey begin?
I made significant life changes during my early teens, so I had to put my music aside for a few years. My interest was reignited when I met like-minded people who enjoyed music as much as I did. We started making songs together just for our enjoyment. After working on my writing and singing for two years, I released my first song in April 2020.
Could you describe your creative process?
It changes from time to time. Mostly, I listen to a beat or sample and start composing and writing in my head. Sometimes, I can compose a full song without writing anything down, but if I feel like it’s not going in the right direction, we’ll scratch it and move on. Sometimes, I draw before I write. Sometimes, I’ll think of a story while writing; other times, I will use my own life story. Once the song layout is ready, the recording and everything else comes in. But until we have the initial raw product, we keep working.
What defines your music style and themes?
My style is unorthodox compared to typical Punjabi songs, as our team delves into Western music production while still incorporating some traditional elements. This produces a fresh product to the ears and easily catches the listener’s attention.
Who are your biggest influences as an artist?
In my early life, my biggest influences were legendary Punjabi singers like Gurdas Maan, Chamkila, and Soni Pabla. After moving to Canada, my taste in music changed drastically. It shifted from duet songs on a tractor to artists like Jay Z and Rihanna on the SkyTrain. I heavily listened to A$AP Rocky, Drake, J Cole, and Kendrick Lamar.
What project are you most proud of, and why?
I love all my work, but the MIDNIGHT projects stand out. We have created momentum with this project, and the ball is rolling. This project stands out from the rest of the industry because of its melodies and music production. The blend of R&B beats with smooth Punjabi vocals and timeless Bollywood samples makes it unique. As a result, our songs are reaching listeners across the globe in over 150 countries.
What challenges have you faced, and how did you overcome them?
The first few obstacles were finding my voice and recording engineers in Vancouver who could understand Punjabi music. I worked with many Canadian artists but needed someone who understood both worlds. That’s when I met KGB (KULTARGOTBOUNCE). We embarked on this musical journey together and created great music. Another challenge initially was getting my music out there in front of people. It would often get lost under labels’ overpaid marketing campaigns. Now, we have a strong audience, and the music speaks for itself.
How do you continue to grow and evolve as an artist?
I feel like I need to improve as an artist every day while managing all other aspects of my life. I have many layers that I need to peel to become a better artist and entertainer. In the future, as I improve and take on bigger challenges, I will always strive to move forward and upward.
Do you have any rituals to stay inspired?
To be honest, being a little under the influence helps. I like to keep my mind clutter-free. I usually have coffee before my sessions and sometimes whiskey. When I’m driving to the studio, I think of different melodies and rhymes and warm up my voice. It’s a simple routine, but it works for me.
Have you worked with local artists or organizations? Any highlights?
I have worked with many talented local artists. To name a few: KGB, 40k, Kelland, Moneyonmymind, PEAK, and REVE. I have also worked with a local label, SNAKES and LADDERS. Besides that, we work with the 5X and Don’t Doze organizations. One highlight has been performing the songs that I made with local artists in front of our city during festivals like CAR Free Day and 5X Fest, or even at venues in downtown Vancouver like Fortune Sound and Levels.
How important is collaboration in the local artistic community?
It’s your duty to bring people along with you on your journey and offer whatever you can to help others. No matter how far I go, I will always be ready to work with my fellow artists.
How do you engage with the local community through your music?
Vancouver is a multicultural city, with more people moving to the Lower Mainland daily. Over 1 million Punjabi people live on the Lower Mainland. Young people new to this country always gravitate toward my music, but the same is true for Canadian-born Punjabi kids, too. I feel like my music has the right effect on these two audiences, and it will only get bigger and better.
What are your goals as an artist?
Short-term: Billboards. Long-term: I want my music to outlive me. Are there dream projects or collaborations you want to pursue in the future? Diljit Dosanjh, Karan Aujla, Badshah. It will be a dream come true when I get to work with these guys.
Any advice for aspiring artists?
I will tell them only one thing: never give up and stop working. Things will work out. It takes time.
How do you balance pursuing your passion with practical needs?
It’s a tough balance, but there’s a fine line where I want to make music without worrying about criticism but also take that criticism and apply the lessons to make a better product. I want to keep my artistic passion and not just do it because I feel like it will sell.
