Singer, song-writer and composer Rohan Solomon just released a song about Delhi’s pollution. He speaks with Shalini Saksena about why he chose to do so, his future projects and musical journey
Why a song on Delhi’s pollution?
Why not. Our city is in a bad state. I just got back from the US and as soon as I walked out of the airport, I could smell the pollution. I’ve only been back one day and I can feel the wheezing creeping up in my lungs. We are in dire need of an ecological clean up. Every citizen must play their part by spreading the word and taking some action. The only way I know how to do that is by writing songs. More people need to be writing about this.
Do you think a song would have an impact?
There is definitely potential of a song having an impact on people. One can never know which song is going to click with people. Let’s take a look at some examples. Man in the mirror by Michael Jackson and Imagine by John Lennon. These are two of the most powerful and meaningful songs in history. They both have a great message and managed to touch the hearts of millions of people. All it takes is the right message to connect with a person.
How did your journey begin?
I have been obsessed with music since I was three years old. I used to listen to a lot of Michael Jackson, Jackson 5 and Beatles records on my family’s old LP player. I never knew how to sing or play any instrument at that time, but the music was always calming to me. At the age of 12, my cousin taught me a few chords on the piano and guitar and taught me the formula for chords. Once I knew that, it was pretty easy for me to figure out other chords and also translate those chords on to the guitar. I started on the piano first. I was around 13 by the time I wrote my first song. Around the age of 15, I finally got the courage to start playing my original to friends and family. I spoke to a teacher in my school and arranged to perform in the school assembly. I performed one of my originals and a cover as well and I received a standing ovation. The rush I felt that day on stage was amazing. I formed my band Cyanide in school itself and we continued to perform together all through college and even after that. Then I moved to New York and decided to pursue Music Production and Audio Engineering.
Singer, composer, guitarist and sound engineer. What role sits with you best?
That’s really hard to say. I enjoy all those things. I could possibly answer what role suits me the least. It would probably be a guitarist. I’m a good rhythm guitarist, but never got the hang of playing fast shredding solos. But as far as composing, singing and engineering, are concerned, I’m a huge geek about all those things.
Why shift to New York?
I have always loved New York since the first time I visited it as a tourist. I’m a huge Broadway fan. I had decided, if I ever move to the US, it will be New York. In Late 2015, I decided that I wanted to go to school for Audio Engineering. I found a great programme. After finishing my course, I stayed on and got an internship at Engine Room Audio and eventually climbed up the ladder to become Production Manager. The life, the pace and the action in New York City are what kept me there.
What kind of music do you listen to?
I listen to multiple genres from pop, rock, country, metal, funk, even some hip hop and R&B. Some of my favourite artists are Michael Jackson, Hanson, Metallica, Foo Fighters, Daughtry, Vulfpeck and Zac Brown Band.
You also made a new band. Why?
Being in a band is what comes naturally to me. My band mates become my brothers and best friends for life. With Jeet and Cheilean, it just happened so naturally. We were already hanging out all the time, jamming in my apartment. One day, we just decided to jam in front of a microphone and the rest is history. It’s the chemistry between band mates that gets the band started. I love writing songs and recording them.
What are your future projects?
I am super excited about starting a Music Production School in Delhi by the summer of 2020. As far as new music goes, there is definitely new music under production. But I can’t reveal too much. But it will be something different. Something that I’ve never done before or any other local indie band has done either.