Ranjit Barot believes that the information explosion and social media have both positive and negative aspects. He feels that while it empowers people, it can also lead to feelings of alienation. Barot observes that some musicians who gain popularity on social media may lack the skills needed to perform in the real world. Conversely, many talented artists struggle with anonymity because they are unable to effectively engage with social media. Barot emphasizes the importance of critically evaluating trends, recognizing their beneficial impacts, and understanding their drawbacks. He stresses the significance of collaboration and surrounding oneself with talented individuals to constantly improve. Barot shares his admiration for renowned musicians such as Ustad Zakir Hussain, John McLaughlin, and AR Rahman, highlighting the value of being part of such esteemed company. To Barot, true music should be substantial and stand the test of being compared to legendary artists like Sting, Prince, and Michael Jackson. Despite the challenges, Barot finds fulfillment in pursuing a career in music, acknowledging that it is a highly consumed art form but often undervalued in terms of compensation.Subscription services charge a monthly fee, but only a small fraction goes to the artists. I view AI as a valuable tool, particularly for those looking to save time. If you possess genuine talent, AI cannot replace you. It may weed out individuals lacking skill, but it cannot substitute those with authentic talent and determination. I strongly believe that more musicians should focus on producing high-quality music to revamp the music scene. There is hope for the music industry, although it has been oversimplified in India, making it niche to create intelligent music. Presently, the music industry is predominantly influenced by individuals who lack motivation, resulting in a lack of standards. However, there are still pockets of exceptional music to be found - such as the works of artists like AP Dhillon and Diljit Dosanjh. We need more musicians dedicated to producing quality music to transform the industry.
Reflecting on my journey, I attribute much of my success to my mother, Sitara Devi, a renowned classical kathak dancer. She was a powerhouse of energy and determination, traits that greatly influenced me. Witnessing her unwavering commitment and passion left an indelible mark on me, compelling me to constantly push boundaries in innovation, expression, and engaging with others.
Furthermore, a collaboration between director Roysten Abel and percussionist Ranjit Barot on drums, known as "Beat Route," will unite ten skilled folk percussionists from Rajasthan and Kerala at Chowdiah Memorial Hall on October 5 from 5 pm to 8 pm.
