After two successful decades with the 1974 AD, he's beginning a new phase in his life as an official solo act. He claims to be positive about the whole experience and is excited about his future endeavors. Pradhan shares his views on music in general and explains the reasons he adores his current favorite acts.
How do you find new music and talents on the scene?
I rely on recommendations and in my experience it is a very effective way to scout new or good sounds on the scene. Whenever I meet up with friends who have a good ear, the ones who know their music, I ask them what they are listening to at the moment. It always leads to entertaining discussions and great finds.
Do you have a favorite genre of music?
Well, time and again I find myself coming back to soul music so I guess that is my favorite genre. The likes of Tower of Power come to mind. I'm definitely biased towards them. I immensely enjoy soothing R&B and energetic horn sections.
What's your opinion on mainstream music?
I think mainstream music is important. Let's not fool ourselves, at the end of the day there is the business side of music as well. We have to pay attention to that too. As much thrill and joy there is in making music, down the road that's not enough. So there is no shame in pop tunes.
Having said that though, I would also like to stress the need for an individual to develop his/her own taste in music. It is okay to not like what the mass considers as good music. In fact, it is actually healthy to tread off the mainstream route once in a while and explore music that might not be on everybody's radar.
How do you describe good music?
Music has the ability to help the soul grow and good music never fails to touch a listener's heart. It's not only about the technical aspects or outlandish packaging. It's pretty simple. Good musichas the ability to move people. It could get them on the dance floor or sobbing in a corner.
How do you work on a song?
For me, it's all about the melody. That always comes first. I get into the studio, hold my guitar and play around with the chords. If a tune makes me feel good, it usually helps inspire the lyrics as well and that's how I always work on my songs. That's how I have written most of my hits.
So any future projects in the pipeline?
Yes. Abhidaan, my solo album is set to release on the 18th of August. That's what I'm mainly focusing on at the moment. We have completed all the songs. Most of the mixing is done as well. There are just a couple of tracks left and we are very excited about it.
What about retirement? Does it ever across your mind?
No. Luckily my profession has no age limit, and I'm very thankful about that. I plan to go on creating tunes for as long as I physically can.
Related story
Qatar Airways’ Successful ‘No Borders, Only Horizons’ campaign...
