Ranjit Barot believes that the information explosion and social media have both positive and negative impacts. He thinks that while social media can empower individuals, it can also lead to alienation. Barot expresses concern that some musicians who rely heavily on social media may not be adequately skilled to perform in real-world settings. On the other hand, talented artists who do not engage much with social media may struggle with lack of recognition. Barot emphasizes the importance of discerning the positive and negative aspects of trends in the music industry. He highlights the significance of collaboration in pushing one's musical abilities, preferring to surround himself with musicians who are more skilled than he is. Barot values creating music that can stand the test of time and be compared to the works of iconic artists. Despite the challenges of being a musician, Barot finds fulfillment in his profession, acknowledging that music is widely consumed but often undervalued in terms of financial compensation.Subscription services charge a monthly fee, but only a small portion goes to the artists. Nowadays, there is AI, which some might view as a tool for those who are lazy. However, for those who are truly talented, AI cannot replace them. It may weed out those lacking in talent, but it cannot substitute for those with genuine talent and determination. The music industry requires more artists who can produce high-quality music to revolutionize the current music landscape. There is a sense of hope for the industry despite the challenges. In India, the music scene has been oversimplified to the extent that creating intelligent music has become somewhat niche. The industry is dominated by a lackadaisical group of individuals without established benchmarks, often swayed by the presence of a popular celebrity in a music video. However, there are still pockets of exceptional music, such as that of AP Dhillon and Diljit Dosanjh. The industry needs more artists dedicated to creating quality music to drive a significant change.
"My mother, Sitara Devi, has been the biggest inspiration in my journey. I have put in a lot of hard work to reach where I am today. I credit my mother, Sitara Devi, a renowned classical kathak dancer, for instilling in me a strong work ethic and determination. She was a powerhouse of energy and her unwavering dedication left a lasting impact on me. I believe I have inherited her spirit and drive, as I am constantly pushing myself towards innovation, expression, and meaningful interactions with others."
Beat Route, a collaboration between director Roysten Abel and rhythm maestro Ranjit Barot, featuring a live performance led by Ranjit Barot on drums, will showcase the talents of 10 master folk percussionists from Rajasthan and Kerala at Chowdiah Memorial Hall on October 5 from 5 pm to 8 pm.