AR Rahman: “Every music has taken off other than Indian music”

With the Internet becoming the dominant platform where people get discovered, there seems to be a void in the music industry, according to AR Rahman. He feels, as other global music industries become more well known, independent Indian music has yet to create the same buzz internationally.

Talking about what’s out there, the award winning musician, explained how due to there being an overload of the same kind of talent, it’s now all about having something special. “There are so many now and there is clutter. One might get better quality person. But a ‘besura’ singer is rejected as there are thousands who can sing. So, on the internet, it is about what new you can bring,” The New Indian Express reports Rahman stating.

He went on to add, “All this is good for our country, for our music. Once we reach that level, there will be world domination of Indian artistes. I can see that happening. There is a void in the world. Every music has taken off other than Indian music.”

When questioned on his own achievements, of winning an Oscar for composing music for a Hollywood film, Rahman explained, “That is film music. I am talking about independent music. There is inherent racism when you go to the world market, they see colour and all that stuff. But beyond that, there is talent and I wish that happens.”

Rahman will next be joined by contestants from the 10th Season on ‘Indian Idol’ as well as other big names form the music industry, on a Sony TV’s programme called ‘Jammin’.

Talking about the show, Rahman said, “It is an opportunity for me and people who can’t access this world to meet. We meet and discuss things and perform together. We learn from each other.”