In our next band spotlight, we chat to Pragnya Wakhlu about her music and inspirations…
[like_to_read][/like_to_read]
S] What inspires your work, outside of music?
My work is mainly inspired by life experiences. Searching for life lessons from the ordinary things in life. Finding the extraordinary stories in the ordinary. I find great inspiration in acts of kindness , stories of courage and people that standing up for causes that go beyond themselves.
S] What has been a career highlight?
Releasing my debut album ‘Journey To The sun’ in 2012. Getting nominated for the Global Indian Music Awards (GIMA) for the above in the Best Music Debut, Best pop album and Best Pop Song categories and winning third place the Bite my Music Global awards for ‘Best FEmale Vocalist’. Also, my music videos for ‘Rise’ and ‘Burning Fire’ featuring on television on VH1 and MTV. Releasing my sophomore album Kahwa Speaks after three years of work and research this year was a big milestone for me.
S] What are the biggest challenges you face as an artist?
Making enough money to make ends meet. I haven’t been able to find myself a good manager yet . So I handle all aspects of my work myself..including promotion, management, getting gigs and the like. It does get a little overwhelming sometimes.
S] What are your goals for the future?
The most immediate goal is to complete the creation of the visual piece of the audio-visual tour for Kahwa Speaks (it was crowdfunded successfully last month), and take the band on a world tour. Our vision is to help the world see the positive side of Kashmir through music and visuals.
Later it’s to continue making music, touring and growing as an artist. My dream is to create multi-dimensional experiences for the audience. I want them to be coming not just for the music alone but for an experience that moves and inspires them and that they can remember forever. I also want to keep making work that helps create a positive social impact.
For more information visit Songdew: www.songdew.com/kahwaspeaks
Lovely musician