Arijit Singh's Candid Critique of India's Music Industry Payment Culture
Renowned playback singer Arijit Singh has delivered a powerful indictment of what he describes as a fundamentally broken payment culture within the Indian music industry. In a revealing 2023 interview that has recently resurfaced, Singh spoke with striking candor about the systemic issues that leave artists vulnerable to unclear deals, delayed fees, and reduced compensation, deeply impacting their livelihoods and creative spirit.
The Core of the Problem: Unclear Deals and Broken Promises
According to a detailed report from the Hindustan Times, Singh made these pointed remarks during an episode of The Music Podcast, where he directly addressed filmmakers, producers, and production houses. He emphasized that the industry desperately needs greater clarity and honesty in financial dealings. Singh articulated a simple yet profound principle: "Ya toh kaam karwao paesa do ya toh kaam mat karwao" (Either get the work done and pay for it, or do not get the work done at all).
He explained that this straightforward approach is often undermined by verbal agreements that lack formal documentation, setting the stage for disappointment and financial hardship later in the process. Singh detailed the typical sequence: an artist is told they will receive a certain amount for specific work, negotiations occur, and an agreement is reached. However, once immersed in their craft, artists frequently exceed the agreed scope due to their passion and dedication, forgetting the initial financial terms.
The Devastating Impact on Artists
Singh painted a grim picture of the eventual outcome. When payment finally arrives, it is sometimes significantly less than what was originally discussed. "So, you're killing an artist," Singh stated bluntly, highlighting how such practices can crush creative professionals both financially and emotionally. He stressed that this environment fails to provide the basic fairness, security, and respect that creative labor deserves.
These concerns gained renewed prominence following Singh's announcement that he would not be taking on new playback singing assignments, bringing his long-standing advocacy for artist rights back into sharp focus.
Calling for Systemic Reform and Professional Standards
Singh identified what disturbs him most about the current state of the music business: the absence of a clear, protective system for musicians and singers. He pointed to older session recording practices as a model of professionalism that should be revived. "Ek system hona chahiye" (There should be a system), he insisted.
He elaborated on this ideal system, explaining that in session recordings, artists are paid for their work regardless of whether their version makes the final cut. "Jo session recordings hota hai, aap scratch gao, final mein rahe ya na rahe, you get your payment" (In session recordings, whether you sing a scratch version or your voice stays in the final track, you still get paid). Singh described this as a fair and decent approach where everyone fulfills their role and receives due compensation.
"Yeh bohut hi decent system hai, ki sablog apna kaam karenge aur payment mil jayega" (This is a very decent system, where everyone does their work and gets paid), he affirmed. Singh added that the industry needs proper guidance to ensure artists feel safe, respected, and valued. His rallying cry was clear: "Sabka credit hona chahiye, sabko payment milna chahiye" (Everyone should get credit, everyone should get paid).
Arijit Singh's Illustrious Career and Legacy
Arijit Singh, who made his Hindi film debut in 2011 with 'Phir Mohabbat' from 'Murder 2', has since become one of the most iconic voices in Indian cinema. His repertoire includes timeless hits such as 'Tum Hi Ho', 'Channa Mereya', 'Agar Tum Saath Ho', 'Raabta', 'Kesariya', and 'Ae Dil Hai Mushkil'. His recent song, 'Ghar Kab Aaoge' from 'Border 2', has also garnered widespread critical and public acclaim, further cementing his status as a musical powerhouse.
By speaking out, Singh uses his considerable platform to advocate not just for himself, but for countless artists who face similar challenges in an industry where creative contribution does not always guarantee fair financial reward.
