How did your musical journey begin?
My musical journey began with a deep love for melodies, lyrics, and storytelling. What started as singing along to my favorite songs gradually turned into writing my own music, using songs as a way to express emotions and experiences. Over time, I developed a passion for songwriting and performing, which inspired me to pursue music seriously. Today, I continue to grow as an independent singer-songwriter, creating heartfelt music that connects with people through honest stories and emotions.
What was the first song or performance that made you realize you wanted to be a singer-songwriter?
My musical journey began quite unexpectedly when I casually wrote a Hindi version of Despacito. That experience made me realize that I had a natural inclination toward songwriting. Whether those early songs were good or bad didn't matter much; I simply enjoyed the process and kept writing. One song led to another, and over time, songwriting became a passion. Since then, I have continued exploring, learning, and growing as an artist, and the journey is still ongoing.
How has your songwriting style evolved over the years?
When I first started writing songs, I did it just for fun, without worrying about genre, mood, or style. As I've grown as an artist, I've become more focused on finding a unique voice and sound that truly represents me. I'm still exploring and figuring that out, but I'm enjoying the process and believe I'll find my signature style soon.
Who are your biggest musical influences and how have they shaped your sound?
My first and biggest musical inspiration has always been Sonu Nigam. His versatility, emotional depth, and dedication to music played a huge role in shaping my love for singing and songwriting. As I explored music further, I found inspiration in legendary Indian artists such as Shaan, KK, Shreya Ghoshal, Sunidhi Chauhan, Mohammed Rafi, Lata Mangeshkar, and Mukesh. Beyond Bollywood, I've been deeply influenced by iconic Western artists and bands such as Michael Jackson, Elvis Presley, Guns N' Roses, and Green Day. From the Indian independent music scene, artists and bands like Janisth Joshi, Apurva Tamang, Prateek Kuhad, Indian Ocean, and Agnee have also left a strong impression on me. There are many more artists who have influenced me over the years, far too many to mention here, but if I had to choose one person who sparked my musical journey and continues to inspire me the most, it would be Sonu sir.
What's the story behind the raw vocal demo you shared with us?
“2 Souls” is a soft indie acoustic ballad duet that explores themes of love, separation, and longing. The song was written in a single night following a creative conversation with my co-artist Jorji, and it came together very naturally, driven by raw and honest emotion. Through gentle acoustic textures and heartfelt Hindi lyrics, “2 Souls” tells the story of two people who share a deep connection but gradually drift apart. The song was produced by Saurav and his team at SM Studio, Guwahati, and is designed to resonate with listeners who enjoy indie, romantic, and mellow acoustic music. At its core, “2 Souls” is about the emotions that remain even when two people can no longer stay together.
What feeling were you aiming to convey in that live performance video?
Since the performance features only raw guitar and vocals in an outdoor setting, my goal was to keep it as honest and unfiltered as possible. I wanted the simplicity of the performance to highlight the emotions behind the song without any distractions. The natural surroundings, combined with the acoustic arrangement, helped create an intimate atmosphere that reflects the feelings of love, longing, and reflection at the heart of “2 Souls.”
Can you share an image of your songwriting notebook or lyric sheet?
What part of the songwriting process do you enjoy most?
I love brainstorming random melodies. There's something magical about humming a tune out of nowhere and then building an entire song around it. It feels like discovering a hidden treasure, and that initial spark of creativity is what I enjoy most.
What does your home studio or favorite recording setup look like?
What is one piece of equipment you can't live without?
My acoustic guitar. It's my constant companion and the tool I use to bring my musical ideas to life. Whether I'm writing a new song or practicing, it's always by my side.
Can you share a before-and-after clip of your song editing or production process?
What aspect of your production do you focus on most?
As an independent singer-songwriter, I focus most on the emotion and authenticity of a song. For me, the production should support the story and feeling behind the lyrics rather than overpower them. I pay close attention to the vocal performance, acoustic textures, and overall mood, ensuring that every element serves the song and helps create a genuine connection with the listener.
Contact and Follow
Email: pandeykanak75@gmail.com
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/2W2dbTuAZi3xnyVaQ3lRVW?si=t1ZKO3DPS0ubvm2BRGfGig
YouTube: https://youtube.com/kanakpandey
Instagram: https://instagram.com/kpcityyy
Facebook: https://facebook.com/kanakpandeyofficial
