Where are you based?
I am based in New Delhi, India.
Where do you work? What do you do?
I work at the global digital music company Believe, in their Artist Services and Development department. I am an A&R Manager. I also run an online music publication that talks about independent music in India – The Indian Music Diaries.
What are you listening to?
I usually gravitate to listening to Deep House sets during work hours as they help me focus and stay positive. This Never Happened is one my favourite labels in this genre. Other than that, I listen to a lot of rock, singer-songwriter and Indian independent music.
How do you discover new music?
I keep a close eye on the programming that DSPs like Spotify and Apple Music do in my territory. They are great ways to get exposed to new music. Music blogs and developing a network of people who are interested in new music also helps.
What formats do you usually listen to? LP, CD, Cassette, Digital, Streaming Services? Why?
I only listen to music on Streaming Services as that is the easiest and most effective option. I will surely want to build myself an analog setup one day hopefully with loads of vinyl and cassettes if they keep making a comeback.
“I think listening to music digitally is great! I often get amazed by the ease at which I can discover music. From Ethiopian Jazz, something I discovered recently, to hearing music released in the 1930s, a lot of valuable music is at your fingertips and I feel that’s amazing.”
Where do you do most of your music listening?
I do most of my listening at work, although I work from home. My commute for meetings also involves me listening to new music and/or albums through and through.
How do you find and listen to pre-release music?
In my territory, the practice of listening to pre-release music is not that strong. Although, my job does involve musicians sending me demos of their upcoming music. They usually send it on one of these 3 channels: Email, WhatsApp (if we’re already connected there) or use SoundCloud links.
What are your frustrations with listening to music digitally? Any benefits?
I think listening to music digitally is great! I often get amazed by the ease at which I can discover music. From Ethiopian Jazz, something I discovered recently, to hearing music released in the 1930s, a lot of valuable music is at your fingertips and I feel that’s amazing.
How do you keep track of everything you are listening to?
I often curate my own playlists and if I like something I add it to my library. I can easily find it later.
Do you tip other people off to new music? How?
Sharing links for that music on my social media, sending the links on their personal messages or making them hear it while spending time with them, these are the usual ways I tip people off to new music.
Anything you want to “promote”?
Would love to give a shoutout to a friend who has started his music journey last year. Please do hear Shourya Malhotra’s music on Spotify. For all things independent music in India, please see The Indian Music Diaries.
