You wear three hats — singer, songwriter, composer. Did one come first, or did they always travel together? What was the first song where all three came into play for you?
"Maahi" was my very first original — written, composed, and sung entirely by me. It felt like a natural fusion of my three roles, and I remember the thrill of seeing my own creation come to life from scratch. That song sparked something in me, showing that being a singer, songwriter, and composer isn't about choosing one path but letting them flow together seamlessly.
Walk us through your first proper recording — what did you learn about your own voice and writing that surprised you?
Before the pandemic, I never knew I could write. Sitting idle at home during lockdown, I started jotting down words and melodies, and to my surprise, every song I wrote had a hook line that anyone could easily remember and hum. I wrote and sang 'Hai Salamat Jahaan' for the COVID warriors, and it went viral — it was even telecast on national and regional news channels. Being interviewed and recognized felt incredible, and that experience inspired me to keep writing. Today, I've released over 16 original songs in Hindi, Punjabi, and devotional genres, and people truly connect with them.
As an indie artist running your own catalogue, how has your style shifted between covering others' songs and composing your own?
I started out covering other artists' songs — that's how people first knew me as a singer. I still love covering songs and do it from time to time, but working on my own compositions gave me a broader perspective. I've experimented with many genres: I used to sing soft melodies, romantic songs, and love ballads, but then I created a wedding song that did really well, three devotional songs that people loved, and a Punjabi peppy tune that became popular on reels and social media. Since I began creating my own music, I've been constantly evolving, and I believe that's how we truly grow as artists.
Which Indian indie artists or composers shaped your songwriting? And if a future listener cites you as an influence, what about your music do you want them to be drawn to?
In terms of songwriting and composition, I'm largely self-inspired. However, I admire the journeys of indie artists like AP Dhillon, Anuv Jain, and Pratik Kuhad. As for my work, I believe you give your best when you know your own style and stick to what you're best at — rather than changing yourself or your music to chase trends. If you're honest and content with your genre, the right audience will find you. I hope listeners are drawn to the authenticity and emotional honesty in my music.
Share an original audio snippet or demo of a song you're working on — what's the story behind it?
It's an unfinished love story about a girl who is still longing for her beloved to return, though he left without any explanation. That's why the song is titled 'Aa Jao Na' — a heartfelt plea for him to come back. The emotion behind it is raw and universal, capturing that ache of unresolved love.
My creative process always begins with an emotion and the story I want to express. Melody and lyrics come together naturally for me — I cannot create one before the other. A feeling, thought, or idea instantly brings both words and tune at the same time, and that's how my songs take shape. I focus on keeping my music honest, soulful, and emotionally relatable. Once the basic song is ready, I work on the arrangement and vocals to ensure the emotion remains the heart of the track. My inspiration mainly comes from emotions, observations, imagination, and stories that people can connect with universally.
I love the mood and energy of this song — it just speaks to me. Covering it felt like a natural way to share that vibe with my audience, and I hope they feel the same connection I do.
What's one thing people might not know about your preparation routine?
People might be surprised to learn how spontaneously inspiration hits me. I've created songs while cooking, driving, and even playing tennis. There's no fixed time or place — my mind just starts crafting melodies and lyrics out of the blue.
I'd describe my artistic identity as soulful, emotionally expressive, and melody-driven. I'm an artist who blends honest storytelling with heartfelt Hindi and Punjabi music, always aiming to touch listeners' hearts.
What emotion are you trying to convey with this new song?
This new song is about heartbreak — that deep, lingering pain that has no cure. I want the listener to feel the rawness and vulnerability of losing someone, yet find solace in knowing they're not alone in that experience.
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