“My Music-Making Process Isn’t Calculated”: Kanika Patawari

Kanika Patawari

Your choice to use a regional language in a non-traditional song is interesting. Is it a deliberate step?

In all honesty, my music-making process isn't so calculated. I think what comes naturally to me, is what brings the best out of me. Marwadi is a language I speak at home with my family. It was only a matter of time until I included this part of my heritage in my music. The idea of Rajasthani music becoming global is super exciting to me and I'm stoked to be part of the journey.

Given the rise of independent music artists and experimenting, do you see yourself open to collaborations? What kind of music do you want to create through collaborations?
Collaborations work so well, and I find them incredibly exciting. As a listener, I love seeing the creative outcome of my favourite artists working with other artists that I haven't discovered yet. Similarly, any collaboration I do would open both our listeners to each other. If given the opportunity, I would absolutely love to collaborate with creators like Jasmine Sandlas, Qaran, AP Dhillon, and so many more. I love the growing independent scene in India.

Plans in the music space and otherwise?
Plenty! Lots of music is in store for this year, and I can't wait to share it. Separately, I run a project called MusicRecycle where I work to raise awareness on sustainability through music. We are currently looking at collaborations with music festivals. In the past, we've worked with Coachella and Desert Daze, both in California. Setting up experiences for attendees creates interesting ways to educate on the environment and how people can help. Simple things like creating shared transport options or a return option for cups, mark ways for festivals to drive the conversation.

Any merchandising or product companies in the industry can pay more attention to their packaging. What materials are single-use only and are thrown away immediately? Are there any materials used in their products that can be exchanged for more environment-friendly ones? These are the questions and solutions that MusicRecycle is talking about.