| From Bieber to Backstreet Boys: India's shining! As a music enthusiast, I find it fascinating to see how India, with its unique culture and diverse music scene, has become a hotspot for global music acts. There are less than 10 days to go before the 90s heartthrobs Backstreet Boys grace the shores here, after a gap of more than 10 years! It's like a nostalgic blast from the past for fans who grew up swooning over their pop hits. I guess they finally realized that "I Want It That Way" was also the sentiment of Indian fans who have been eagerly waiting for their arrival. Internet sensation Rema, who has done the exact opposite of his viral song's title (Calm down) to listeners across the globe, is scheduled for a multi city tour, the weekend after Backstreet Boys' performance! The music scene, in India, especially in the last decade or so, has evolved rapidly, and it seems like every other week there was news of a popular popstar, electronica artist, or band making their way to the country to entertain the masses. Gone are the days when India was considered a pitstop for artists on their world tours. Now, it's a destination they eagerly include in their concert schedules. Take, for example, the American rock band Imagine Dragons, who had the audience roaring in excitement during their recent concert in Mumbai. It was surreal to see thousands of fans singing along to their hits, proving that India's music taste is not limited to just Bollywood tracks. In 2017, heartthrob Justin Bieber, who caused a frenzy among Indian fans when he performed in Mumbai. The Beliebers came out in full force, with fans screaming and crying, making it a spectacle to behold. It was a clear indication that India's music scene had expanded beyond its traditional boundaries, and international artists were taking notice. Even the iconic British rock band Coldplay couldn't resist the charm of performing in India. After fulfilling their Bollywood dream of making a music video in India featuring Indians (and Beyonce disguised as Indian), their concert in Mumbai in 2014 was nothing short of a spectacle. But it's not just the big names that are flocking to India. Smaller acts are also finding their way to the country and creating a buzz. Indian music festivals, such as NH7 Weekender and Sunburn, have become popular platforms for international electronica artists and bands to showcase their talent to the ever-growing Indian audience. These festivals have seen performances by renowned artists like David Guetta, Martin Garrix, and DJ Snake, to name a few. It's evident that India's electronic music scene is booming, and international artists are eager to be a part of it. But what's even more exciting is the rise of Indian artists on the global stage. Take Diljit Dosanjh, the Punjabi pop sensation, for example. He has been setting international stages on fire with his groovy Punjabi beats and energetic performances. From sold-out shows in the UK to rocking the stage at New York City's Madison Square Garden to bringing Punjabis to Coachella! Diljit has been having a good ride. Even smaller Indian acts like When Chai Met Toast, with their folk, pop, and indie music, and Bloodywood, with their metal-meets-Indian-folk fusion, have been making their mark at international festivals. These bands have been breaking stereotypes, transcending borders, and putting Indian music on the global map with their captivating performances and unique musical styles. This musical revolution in India is a testament to the growing diversity and talent in the Indian music scene. The fusion of different genres, the rise of international collaborations, and the increasing global exposure of Indian artists have opened up new horizons for music lovers and fans alike. It's a celebration of India's rich musical heritage and its evolution into a melting pot of cultures and genres. Tarot |
