Musician and composer Ranjit Barot believes that the information explosion and prevalence of social media have both positive and negative implications. He highlights the empowerment it provides while also pointing out the potential for alienation. Barot expresses concern that musicians emerging from the social media sphere may lack the necessary skills to excel in real-world performances. Additionally, he notes that some talented artists struggle with recognition due to their limited engagement with social media. Embracing various trends throughout his lifetime, Barot stresses the importance of discerning the positive and negative impacts of each trend. He emphasizes the value of collaboration in fostering personal growth, citing his experiences with esteemed musicians such as Ustad Zakir Hussain, John McLaughlin, and AR Rahman. Barot considers genuine music as something that can withstand comparison to renowned artists like Sting, Prince, and Michael Jackson, emphasizing the importance of substance and striving for a high standard. Despite the rewards of a career in music, Barot acknowledges the challenges, including the discrepancy between music's widespread consumption and the relatively low financial compensation it often garners.Subscription services charge a monthly fee, but only a small portion of that fee goes to the artists. With the advancement of AI, some consider it a valuable tool for those who are not motivated to put in the effort. However, for individuals who possess genuine talent and dedication, AI cannot replace them. Although AI may eliminate those lacking talent, it cannot substitute for those with true skill and ambition. It is crucial to have more artists producing high-quality music in order to revamp the music industry. There is a sense of optimism for the future of the music industry, as currently, it seems to be dominated by individuals who lack initiative and excellence. The industry lacks a standard for quality, often relying on the popularity of big-name artists to sway consumers. Despite these challenges, there are still pockets of exceptional music being created, such as the works of artists like AP Dhillon and Diljit Dosanjh. It is imperative to have more artists dedicated to creating exceptional music in order to transform the industry landscape.
The speaker credits their mother, Sitara Devi, a renowned classical kathak dancer, as their main inspiration. Growing up witnessing their mother's exceptional motivation and determination, the speaker learned the value of hard work and dedication. They believe they have inherited their mother's spirit and drive, which fuels their constant pursuit of innovation, expression, and meaningful connections with others.
A special event called Beat Route, featuring a collaboration between director Roysten Abel and rhythm maestro Ranjit Barot, 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.