What’s the inspiration behind the tracks ‘Rest’ and ‘Sheets’? Are these tracks in any way self-inspired?
The song ‘Rest’ came into being last year when I was dealing with depression. It was the first song I wrote that was directed to myself. It was a way to tell myself that I will be fine and that I will get through this. Rest is a hopeful song. It talks about accepting depression and trying to heal while Sheets is about being depressed. It's the darkest song on the EP and talks about the inability to get out of bed, the inability to confront reality and the acknowledgement that I have no choice but to be in this dark place. I wrote Sheets before I wrote Rest and the latter is a result of the former.
My friends persuaded me to self-title my first EP/Album. The EP is about the experiences I’ve been through and I wanted it to be an introduction to the kind of work I want to put out and the stories I want to tell.
Tell us something about "RECK". Inspiration behind the name and the project?
Haha. It's an archaic word that hasn't been used for a while. “RECK” means “to be of concern or importance; of significance”. Our aim, in collaboration with any individual or entity that aligns with our culture and values, is to build our nascent music and creative industry by creating a sustainable ecosystem for artists and brands, while building authentic and innovative IP's and experiences for audiences. In simpler terms, we want to drive systemic change from the ground up.
With your role at RECK and also being an artist growing your own brand, how are you managing time juggling the two?
Honestly it's something I’m still learning, so I cannot answer this question completely. I would love to say I have everything worked out and that I’m perfectly organized but that’s not true at all. Although I have found that sticking to a basic routine - sleeping, waking up early and taking care of my mental health - helps me stay focused on the larger picture, some days I’m a great professional and a horrible artist while some days it’s the other way around. It's a long game for me and I have a lot to learn, so I’m keeping myself grounded and just doing what I like.
What are the various equipment and gear you have in your studio to facilitate production?
I don’t have my own studio or my own recording equipment as such. I recorded my EP in my friend’s home studio but I hope to set up a bedroom studio vibe for myself. A sound card, an SM-58, a mic stand and a small MIDI keyboard should be enough.
Tell us about your most valuable piece of equipment and why?
It would be my guitar. Mainly because it's too damn expensive. And also the only instrument I can compose on, for now.
How has the struggle been so far to your current standings?
It’s been a topsy-turvey road but I’ve accepted that it's always going to be like this. That this is just how life is sometimes - a struggle. And that's okay.
Is the path ahead more struggling or does it get better from here?
Can’t really say what the future holds, but I can say for sure that now I’m ready for both. Definitely more ready for the latter, haha. 🙂
How are the psychological rewards in this career you have chosen? Have you ever second guessed your choices?
I used to second guess my choices in the start, but that's when it's the toughest. You really have to look deep inside and ask yourself “Are you really meant to be doing this? And are you good at it?” and once you’re past that, it's all good. The psychological rewards are extremely validating and sometimes overwhelming. (That’s also because I’m very awkward with compliments).
How is the support from industry peers?
Well, it’s quite mixed. There’s definitely a bad side filled with hate and judgement, but overall the environment is super supportive and encouraging. There is always help when you need it and there’s a strong feeling of community
How frequently do you get an opportunity to perform? Is it difficult getting booked?
It is not that difficult getting booked if you’re a decent artist. And I mean that in the most professional way. You can find gigs for yourself if you put the time and work in researching, shooting emails and networking. You have to learn to do those things as well. I used to perform a lot when I first began, now I have taken a step back to work on my music.
How easy/difficult is it to release music in your genre?
I would say It’s a bit difficult now considering five years ago there were only a few singer-songwriters. Now everyone’s a singer-songwriter. There is so much more original music out there so the flow of content is huge. That's not to say it's a bad thing at all.
How does India perform in this genre compared to European or American competition?
Five years ago, there were just a handful of singer-songwriters in the country and now every other musician is a singer-songwriter. There’s a lot of talent but the genre in India is still at a nascent stage. There's a lot to explore. Also, only a few really make it and it takes years to reach your prime. But it's possible.
How frequently do you get an opportunity to perform? Is it difficult getting booked?
It is not that difficult getting booked if you’re a decent artist. And I mean that in the most professional way. You can find gigs for yourself if you put the time and work in researching, shooting emails and networking. You have to learn to do those things as well.
What are the various equipment and gear you have in your studio to facilitate production?
I don’t have my own studio or my own recording equipment as such. I recorded my EP in my friend’s home studio but I hope to set up a bedroom studio vibe for myself. A sound card, an SM-58, a mic stand and a small MIDI keyboard should be enough.
Well, thank you once again for spending time with us, giving us valuable insight into your career. We wish you all the very best of luck in your endeavours. See you soon at one of your shows.
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