VJ Nikhil Chinapa, also the presenter of Sunburn festival, has compiled his favourite tracks in a debut album. He spoke to K Bhardwaj
Widely known for his VJ stint with MTV, Nikhil Chinapa has always pushed his creative limits.
Over the last 16 years of his diverse career, he donned various hats of RJ, VJ, DJ, music composer, festival director, judge, host, businessman et al. lately he compiled his favourite tracks in a debut album titled, Defected in the House India 2013, released by Sony Music. When we called the musician to talk about this album, he said the tracks were his favourites but the artist featured weren’t necessarily so. To his surprise, the album is already topping the charts on iTunes.
“I could have taken big names, but preferred lesser-known artists. I’ve tried to create a snapshot of what I hope dance, music (or part of it) will sound like in coming years — deep and soulful, while being quirky and fun. These tracks move me emotionally, trigger happy memories and make me want to dance, smile and believe,” he explained.
The album consists 32 tracks, including Back 2 Basics (Alex Niggemann), Real love (Franky Rizardo), Enjoy the Ride (Roy Davis), Around (Noir and Haze) and others.
Chinapa gave two reasons why he got deeply involved into music.
“My wife DJ Pearl and my frustration.” FrustrationIJ
“Yes! I was highly annoyed with the predictability of club music in the late 90s. Talk to any learned musician and he would tell you how bad it was. They played lousy remixes and Bollywood numbers. That inspired me to get into mixing and DJaying. Thankfully, we have been able to push a new genre of EDM in India. Though it was there for years, it got a kick recently.”
What made EDM grow locally is its young audience and technology.
“Only young minds can set trends. They are taking risks. Earlier, you would need expensive equipment to create music. Today, you need a laptop and software to present your kind of music... the music you believe. Technology is a great enabler. So is the Internet,” he said.
The 40-year-old, who is also director of the Sunburn Music festival, does not devalue his efforts in fostering trance.
“I think I played a significant part in creating awareness and building new fans. My Submerge Music (company) brought many famous musicians like Swedish House Mafia, Alesso, Deniz Koyu, Armin Van Buuren, Zedd, Hardwell and Tiesto.”
So who’s coming nextIJ “I never discuss future programmes. Something is being planned but I will make the announcement at the right time,” he asserted. Asking about his young days, he said he was always at the right place at the right time. So, he didn’t have to struggle.
“I am a firm believer in hard work. luckily, I got my space. I studied architecture but didn’t want to pursue it. So I was auditioned for MTV’s video jockey hunt. I have never looked back. It’s about timing and opportunity,” he ended.