Music composer Ranjit Barot believes that the information explosion and social media have both positive and negative effects. According to him, while social media can empower individuals, it can also lead to feelings of alienation. Barot observes that some musicians who gain popularity through social media may lack the skills required to perform in real-world settings. On the other hand, many talented artists struggle with anonymity because they are unable to effectively utilize social media platforms. Barot emphasizes the importance of being discerning about current trends and their implications, recognizing that trends serve a purpose but should be evaluated for their benefits and drawbacks.
In terms of collaboration, Barot stresses that surrounding oneself with talented individuals is essential for personal growth. He believes that being in the company of those who are more skilled can motivate one to enhance their own abilities. Barot values being part of a community where individuals inspire and challenge each other to constantly improve. He highlights that creating music with substance is crucial, as it should be able to stand alongside the works of legendary artists like Sting, Prince, and Michael Jackson.
Barot acknowledges the challenges of being in the music industry, noting that despite music being a widely consumed art form, it is often undervalued in terms of financial compensation. However, despite these challenges, he finds immense fulfillment in pursuing a career in music and cherishes the opportunities to collaborate with influential musicians such as Ustad Zakir Hussain, John McLaughlin, and AR Rahman.Subscription services collect a monthly fee, with only a small portion going to the artists. AI is considered a handy tool for those looking for shortcuts, but true skill cannot be replaced by technology. While AI might eliminate those lacking talent, it cannot replace individuals with genuine talent and passion. To revamp the music industry, more artists are needed to create high-quality music. In India, music has been oversimplified, making it a niche market for smart music production. There is a lack of innovation and benchmarking in the industry, as it often relies on the popularity of big stars to attract listeners. Despite these challenges, there are pockets of good music to be found, such as the works of AP Dhillon and Diljit Dosanjh. It is essential to have more artists producing quality music to transform the current music landscape. The speaker credits their mother, Sitara Devi, a renowned classical kathak dancer, as their main source of inspiration. Growing up seeing their mother's dedication and determination, they believe they inherited her drive for innovation and engagement with others. A collaboration called Beat Route, led by director Roysten Abel and rhythm expert Ranjit Barot, will feature 10 master folk percussionists from Rajasthan and Kerala performing at the Chowdiah Memorial Hall on October 5, from 5 pm to 8 pm.