Oscar and Grammy-winning music composer AR Rahman describes it as a "great time for musicians," pointing to global admiration and doors now ajar for Indian musicians. Addressing an interview prior to his much-awaited Wonderment Tour, Rahman pointed to how independent Indian bands are playing on global music festivals such as Coachella and artists are bagging Grammys, achieving dreams previously dreamlike for India's music fraternity.
He referred to this as a dream fulfilled, stating, "Now, when all these things are happening, there are so many pockets of independent bands making it to Coachella. This is one of my dreams that should come true, and it's coming true. People are winning Grammys.".
Rahman, who has composed music for over 150 films and has sold over 200 million records worldwide, considers this period an age when technology, global reach, and artistic freedom have come together to support artists as never before.
He invites youth artists to stay themselves and be not blind fans of fashion and instead implies each artist's unique personal life experience and background to make them what they are and add to the business.
Regardless of personal despair and media coverage, Rahman is upbeat about the changing music scene, challenging artists to cling to it and stay committed to their art.
He acknowledges the love of the people and the competitive nature of the industry for making it an awarding time for artists. With hope that Indian music has never been more in the spotlight globally, Rahman is resolute: the world platform is available, and it's a great time to be an artist.