DJ Anish Sood is known for his innovative take on genres like electro and progressive house. He tells Shrabasti Mallik that the Indian music scenario is fiercely competitive and does not easily favour independent musicians
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You hold a bachelor’s degree in engineering but now you pursue music full time...
Well not many people know this but I still work a day job with my family business. So essentially I haven’t fully given up my engineering background. I pursue music because I am passionate about it. And when you love something so much, it makes time for itself in your life.
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How difficult is it for a budding artiste to make his mark in the industryIJ
The music industry has always been pretty competitive; it is not a new thing. Therefore, it can be a tad difficult to break your way in. But as long as you have a solid product and stay committed, nothing is impossible to achieve.
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What is the Indian scenario for independent musicians nowIJ
I think we’re in an amazing space for independent musicians around the world and in India, too. Social media has given us a direct connect with fans and it’s now easier than ever to release forward thinking music and promote gigs ourselves.
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You have worked with international artistes like Gareth Emery and Steve Aoki. What did you get to learn from themIJ
The level of professionalism and commitment most international acts have are pretty amazing and that’s something we definitely need to learn. They have dedicated teams of people working round the clock to ensure the brand is firing on all cylinders and I’ve noticed they have pretty disciplined touring schedules as well.
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Has India opened up to genres like progressive and electro houseIJ
Yes, it has. There are some sections of the audience who have accepted it but it will still be some time before the majority open up to it.
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Did you always want to become a DJIJ
I always loved collecting music as a kid. In fact, I built my first CD collection when I was 11. I guess it was a natural progression from there.
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Who were the artistes you grew up listening to and also who influenced youIJ
Influences keep changing all the time but I grew up listen to a lot of classic rock like the Scorpions, Dire Straits and some old school hip-hop and rap like Eminem, too.
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You have recently released Superfly with Anushka Manchanda. Tell us something about the collaboration and the music.
Working with Anushka and Nanok was great fun. When Jai and I wrote the song, we were looking for a bright pop vocal and Anushka fit the bill perfectly. The track has done pretty well, we’re all really happy with the response.
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How does it feel to do a headlining act for Insanium’s first night in India tonightIJ
I’m super excited! Hard Rock Cafe’s latest property, Insanium looks great.