A guide to indie music in India
India, with its rich cultural tapestry, has always been a melting pot of musical styles and genres. In recent years, the independent music scene in India has been thriving, with talented artists and bands emerging from every corner of the country. However, not all cities in India are equal when it comes to supporting indie music and that’s quite unfortunate.If you’re dreaming of being a full-time musician and are in need of a city that’s going to support your dreams, look no further.
Mumbai
Mumbai, the City of Dreams, isn’t just about Bollywood glitz and glamour; it’s also a vibrant breeding ground for independent musicians. Venues like antiSOCIAL and Blue Frog are more than just performance spaces; they’re cultural hotspots where diverse musical styles converge and thrive. These indie havens offer affordable stage rentals and organize regular gigs, open mic nights, and even artist residencies that provide musicians with valuable performance experience and industry exposure.
The city boasts a thriving artist-collective scene, where musicians collaborate, share resources and learn from each other. These collectives often organize independent music festivals like “Magnetic Fields” and “NH7 Weekender,” showcasing the city’s vibrant talent to a wider audience and attracting national and international recognition. Additionally, independent record labels like Azaad Records provide crucial assistance to budding artists, offering recording facilities, distribution channels, and valuable mentorship, helping them navigate the music industry and build a sustainable career. From artist-run cafes hosting intimate gigs to bustling festivals attracting thousands, Mumbai offers a diverse and supportive platform for independent musicians to thrive on their own terms.
Bangalore
Bangalore, India’s “Silicon Valley,” isn’t just about tech giants and startups. Beneath the city’s tech-savvy exterior pulsates a vibrant independent music scene.This diverse scene thrives thanks to a network of passionate individuals and innovative spaces.
In the past, Bangalore’s music scene was mainly focused on classical music, particularly Carnatic and Hindustani classical. However, in recent years, there’s been a surge in interest towards independent music, spanning a wide array of genres like rock, r&b, hip-hop, electronic, and experimental music. Bangalore has intimate venues like Fandom at Gilly’s Redefined and The Blue Room – these are the beating heart of the scene. They offer affordable stage rentals, host open mic nights, and even provide recording equipment at times, making it accessible for budding artists to experiment and showcase their talent.
But Bangalore’s support extends beyond just providing a platform. The city is home to vibrant artist collectives and online communities that act as support systems for independent musicians. These communities foster collaboration, knowledge sharing, and crucial peer-to-peer mentoring. Experienced artists guide newcomers through the industry ropes, helping them navigate everything from building a brand to booking gigs.
Beyond the physical spaces, Bangalore fosters a strong online community. Several online platforms connect artists with gig opportunities, music enthusiasts, and collaborators. This digital ecosystem allows independent musicians to build their fanbase, promote their work, and connect with other creative minds, fostering a collaborative spirit that helps them grow as artists. So, while Bangalore might not guarantee overnight stardom, it offers a supportive ecosystem where independent musicians can experiment, refine their craft, and find their unique voice
Pune
Unlike the flashing lights of mainstream labels, Pune offers a stage for artists to carve their own niche. Venues like “The High Spirits Cafe” and “The Unplugged Courtyard” are like the city’s living rooms for independent music. They’re not just performance spaces; they’re breeding grounds for creativity. These cafes and pubs host regular open mic nights and artist showcases, giving budding musicians a platform to experiment and find their audience. But Pune’s support goes beyond just providing a stage. Many venues offer recording equipment and sound engineers at minimal costs, helping artists capture their music professionally.
Additionally, artist collectives and online communities connect musicians, fostering collaboration and knowledge sharing. Pune’s thriving indie music scene is further bolstered by its numerous music festivals, such as the Bacardi NH7 Weekender Pune edition. These festivals not only provide a platform for indie artists to perform but also offer workshops and networking opportunities, helping them to hone their craft and connect with industry professionals. This network becomes a support system, where experienced artists mentor newcomers, helping them navigate the industry and build their brand. So, if you’re an independent musician, Pune might not offer the instant fame of a reality show, but it provides something much more valuable: a supportive community where your music can truly take flight.
Kolkata
Kolkata isn’t just about its rich history and mouthwatering street food; it’s also a hidden gem for independent musicians. The city exudes a raw, creative energy that fosters a supportive environment for aspiring artists. Remember Anupam Roy, the guy behind the iconic “Aisi Raaton”? His career took off in Kolkata’s underground music scene, performing at iconic venues like “The Underground” and “The LaLiT.” These aren’t fancy concert halls—they’re intimate spaces where artists connect directly with their audience. These venues keep their doors open for fresh talent, offering affordable stage rentals, recording equipment, and even organizing open mic nights where anyone can take a shot at the spotlight.
Now, compared to cities like Pune, Kolkata might not have the same level of mainstream industry connections or large-scale music festivals. However, what it lacks in size, it makes up for in passion. The city fosters a “do-it-yourself” (DIY) spirit, encouraging musicians to self-produce, manage their online presence, and build a loyal local fanbase before venturing outside. This fosters a sense of community and collaboration, with experienced artists often mentoring and supporting upcoming musicians.
