The five-time National Award-winning playback singer Shreya Ghoshal has opened up about the challenges of creating music in the age of streaming, digital impressions, and social media. The veteran singer spoke with IANS during her trans-continental travels for her shows, stating that numbers, followers, and streaming data can make it difficult for any artist to focus on the beauty of their craft.
Distractions of the Digital Age
Ghoshal told IANS, 'I feel that where there is just so much distraction of numbers, followers, algorithms, and streams, it becomes a little difficult for you to stay very focused and closer to what you are trying to do. I feel very lucky in that way that when I came, all these things were not there. Purely, the love of music was with people.' She added that the love of music from audiences propelled her forward. While modern platforms provide a medium to reach audiences, artists must constantly innovate. She saluted the younger generation for their ability to produce good music while connecting with audiences and honing their craft in today's challenging environment.
Endless Learning Process
She also spoke about the endless process of learning in an artist's life, noting that the younger generation has learning software pre-installed in their subconscious and worldview. 'I am sure this passion is there in many artists. It is not like it is exclusive to only me or a few. I see a lot of young singers and composers, people who are creating music, they are very passionate about what they are doing. I must say that they are very creative. And they are not trying to follow someone blindly. The passion is cultivated through a lot of things. People who you have listened to, your surroundings, who have been your teachers in real life or people who you have listened to the most, and found inspiration in their journey,' she shared.
Inspiration from Others
She further mentioned, 'I have also done that same thing. I have taken that inspiration from so many people whom I have met and followed. Even today when I meet people who are my contemporaries, my seniors, or even younger ones, I learn something from them at all times. The learning never stops. It's not always hard work; it has to be something special.'
The X Factor in Art
'There has to be that X factor in the way you are creating. There has to be a soul. Any art, whether it's painting or music or dance, until there are no emotions, it has no value,' she added.
