Ace percussionist, drummer, and music composer Ranjit Barot believes that the information explosion and prevalence of social media have both positive and negative effects. He views social media as empowering yet alienating, expressing concern that many musicians who thrive online may lack the skills to perform live. On the other hand, some talented artists remain unnoticed due to their limited engagement with social platforms. Having witnessed various trends over his lifetime, Barot advocates for embracing change while also approaching it with discernment. He emphasizes the importance of collaboration in pushing oneself to excel, highlighting the benefits of surrounding oneself with more skilled individuals. Barot stresses the significance of creating music that can withstand comparison to iconic artists like Sting, Prince, and Michael Jackson, stating that real music requires depth and substance. Despite the joys of being a musician, he acknowledges the challenges of a profession that is highly consumed yet often undervalued in terms of financial compensation.Subscription services collect a monthly fee, with only a small portion going to the artists. Artificial Intelligence is considered a great tool for those looking for convenience, but it cannot replace individuals with true skill and talent. While AI may weed out those lacking abilities, it cannot substitute for those with genuine talent and passion. There is a need for more artists to produce high-quality music and revitalize the music industry. In India, the music scene has been oversimplified to the point where creating intelligent music is seen as a niche pursuit. The industry is currently dominated by individuals taking a more laid-back approach without much consideration for quality. Despite this, there are pockets of exceptional music, such as the work of AP Dhillon and Diljit Dosanjh. It is crucial to have more artists creating exceptional music to bring about positive change in the industry. The speaker attributes their strong work ethic to their mother, Sitara Devi, a renowned classical Kathak dancer known for her determination and dedication. Influenced by her spirit and drive, the speaker constantly aims for innovation, expression, and meaningful connections with others. A collaborative performance titled 'Beat Route', involving director Roysten Abel and rhythm master Ranjit Barot leading a group of ten skilled folk percussionists from Rajasthan and Kerala, will take place at the Chowdiah Memorial Hall on October 5 from 5 pm to 8 pm.