10 Popular Artists in India who never fail to strike the right chord!

India has always been a hotbed for music of all genres. From the classical Indian ragas to Bollywood pop, there’s something for every listener. But that’s not all. In the past few years, there has been a surge of bands in India that are creating a buzz in the music scene. These bands are redefining the landscape of Indian music with their unique sound, meaningful lyrics, and powerful performances. In this blog post, we’ll introduce you to 10 such bands that are taking the music industry by storm. So, sit back, plug in those earphones, and let’s dive into the vibrant world of Indian indie music!

When Chai Met Toast

Hailing from Cochin, When Chai Met Toast is a four-piece band that has been making waves in the Indie music scene with their catchy tunes and infectious energy. With songs like “Khoj” and “Beautiful World”, they have amassed a huge fan following. Their music is a mix of indie, folk, and pop, with lyrics that celebrate the beauty of life and love. The band members, Ashwin Gopakumar (vocals, guitar), Achyuth Jaigopal (keys), Pai Sailesh (drums), and Palee Francis (bass), have been playing together for over five years and have captured a unique sound that is both uplifting and soulful. Their performances are known for their high energy and audience engagement, making them a sought-after act in the Indian music scene. When Chai Met Toast is truly a breath of fresh air with their music, and we can’t wait to see what they have in store for us in the future.

Parekh & Singh

Music duo Nischay Parekh and Jivraj Singh have taken the Indie scene by storm with their unique sound and avant-garde style. Their song “Ghost” gained a lot of popularity, and they have since then only been on the rise. Parekh & Singh initially met in Kolkata and connected over a shared love for music. Nischay Parekh, known for his honeyed voice and mastery of the piano, and Jivraj Singh, a skilled tabla player and electronic sound guru, joined forces to create an unforgettable sound.

Their music is a fusion of electronic beats and classical Indian music, with a hint of indie pop. Their colorful and whimsical music videos have also caught the attention of fans and critics alike.

Parekh & Singh have toured worldwide and played at major music festivals in India, including the NH7 Weekender and Magnetic Fields. They have also collaborated with international artists such as Lianne La Havas and Peter Cat Recording Co.

Their latest album, “Science City,” has once again proven their ability to innovate and push boundaries. It features themes of nostalgia, loss, and the human condition. It has been lauded by critics and has cemented their status as one of India’s most exciting musical acts.

Overall, Parekh & Singh’s unique sound and style continue to captivate listeners everywhere. They are truly a force to be reckoned with in the Indie music scene and beyond.

Ritviz

The Indian electronic music producer and singer has made a name for himself with his upbeat tracks and unique blend of Indian folk and electronic music. His song “Jeet” encapsulates his style and has earned him a loyal fanbase. Ritviz’s music is a refreshing addition to the Indian music scene, which is dominated by Bollywood songs and classical music. His fusion of traditional Indian music with contemporary beats has appeal across different generations and cultures. He has been recognized for his talent, winning the Best Electronic Music Producer award at the Radio City Freedom Awards in 2017.

“Jeet,” which means victory in Hindi, features a catchy beat and energetic vocals. The song is an ode to achieving success and overcoming obstacles, and has struck a chord with listeners who appreciate the positive message. The music video is a visual treat, with vibrant colors and choreography that reflects the song’s upbeat tone.

Despite only being in the industry for a few years, Ritviz has already made a significant impact and has collaborated with other musicians and artists. His music is a testament to the growing popularity of electronic music in India and its ability to incorporate diverse musical influences. It is no surprise that Ritviz’s music has gained popularity not just in India, but also globally, showcasing the country’s rich and varied music scene.

Prateek Kuhad

Folk and Indie artist Prateek Kuhad has become a household name over the years with his heartwarming songs and soulful voice. His songs like “Cold/Mess” and “Tum Jab Pass” have become fan favorites amongst people of all ages. Kuhad was born and raised in Jaipur, India, and began writing and recording music in his college years. He released his debut album “In Tokens and Charms” in 2015, which earned him critical acclaim and a loyal fanbase. Since then, he has released several other albums and singles, with his most recent album “Shehron Ke Raaz” coming out in 2021.

Kuhad’s music is characterized by his poignant lyrics, often exploring themes of love, relationships, and self-discovery. His music style is a blend of folk and indie, with influences from artists like Elliott Smith and Bon Iver. 

Outside of his solo work, Kuhad has also collaborated with other artists and contributed to movie soundtracks. He has performed at various music festivals including SXSW, NH7 Weekender, and Ziro Festival of Music.

Kuhad’s success and talent have brought attention to the growing indie music scene in India and have made him a prominent figure in the industry. With his relatable, emotional lyrics and unique sound, he continues to captivate audiences around the world.

Aswekeepsearching

The post-rock band has been garnering attention with their experimental sound that seamlessly blends Indian classical music with western music. Songs like “Let It Pass” and “Khwaab” showcase their versatility and have been appreciated by music lovers alike. Hailing from the vibrant music scene of India, Aswekeepsearching has been making waves in the post-rock genre with their unique sound that fuses together Indian classical music and western influences. The band’s ability to seamlessly blend these two styles has garnered them a loyal fan base and critical acclaim alike.

One of their most popular tracks, “Let It Pass,” showcases their versatility as the song moves seamlessly from soft, introspective moments to soaring, epic swells. Similarly, “Khwaab” features a mesmerizing blend of sitar and guitar that transports listeners to another world.

Aswekeepsearching’s experimental approach to music has made them one of the most exciting bands to watch in the post-rock scene. With each new release, they continue to push boundaries and prove that there are no limits to what can be achieved through the power of music.

The Yellow Diary

Mumbai-based band The Yellow Diary’s music ranges across different genres-from Indie Pop to Alternative rock, their songs are a fusion of soulful lyrics and groovy beats that make for a great listening experience. The band, formed in 2016, consists of five members – Rajan Batra (vocals), Himonshu Parikh (keys and production), Stuart DaCosta (bass), Sahil Shah (drums) and Vaibhav Pani (guitar). Their breakout single “Rab Raakha” garnered critical acclaim and put them on the map in the indie music scene in India.

The Yellow Diary’s music is known for its introspective and emotional themes, often exploring personal growth and the human condition. Their debut EP “Marz” was well-received and showcased their versatility as a band.

In addition to their own music, The Yellow Diary has also collaborated with other artists, such as Clinton Cerejo and Anushka Manchanda, on various projects. Their live performances are energetic and captivating, with a strong focus on audience engagement.

Overall, The Yellow Diary is a band to watch out for in the Indian music industry, carving out their own unique sound and leaving their mark on the scene.

Easy Wanderlings

With their dreamy Indie-folk sound, Easy Wanderlings has been captivating audiences with their mesmerizing vocals and charming lyrics. Their tracks “Enjoy It While It Lasts” and “My Place In This World” are some of their best.  Originally from Pune, India, Easy Wanderlings consist of a group of friends who share a passion for creating heartfelt music.

Their unique blend of acoustic guitar, gentle percussion, and delicate harmonies create a serene and tranquil atmosphere that transports listeners to a world of peaceful serenity. They have been making waves in the Indian indie music scene and have played at some of the biggest music festivals in the country. Their debut album, “As Written In The Stars,” was released in 2018 and received critical acclaim. Their music is perfect for lazy afternoons, road trips, or simply to unwind after a long day. Keep an eye out for this talented group and their future releases.

Indian Ocean

Indian Ocean is a legendary band that has been around for over two decades and has become an institution of sorts in the Indian music industry. Their iconic songs like “Kandisa” and “Bandeh” are classics and remain popular to this day. Founded in 1993 by Susmit Sen, Asheem Chakravarty, and a few other musicians in Delhi, Indian Ocean has since been a trailblazer in the fusion music genre. The band’s unique sound is a mix of various Indian classical and folk music styles blended with rock, Jazz, and blues.

Over the years, Indian Ocean has released several albums and collaborated with numerous artists from across the globe. They have also performed at various music festivals worldwide, gaining a massive following and critical acclaim. The band’s music has been a voice for social change, and their songs often address pertinent issues like inequality, corruption, and politics.

Despite the untimely demise of Asheem Chakravarty in 2009, Indian Ocean continues to create music that resonates with audiences worldwide. Their live performances are a testament to their incredible musicianship and ability to connect with their fans. Indian Ocean remains a legendary band that will continue to inspire generations of musicians and music lovers alike.

Run! It’s The Kid

This Indie-rock band from Delhi takes inspiration from the likes of The Strokes and Arctic Monkeys and adds their own touch to the genre. Their songs like “When” and “Take Your Time” are a hit amongst the youth. Their energetic performances and catchy lyrics make it impossible for the audience to resist dancing along. The Kid’s lead vocalist, Rishabh, has a unique voice that sets them apart from other bands in the scene. Their music takes you on a thrilling ride and leaves you wanting more. It’s no surprise that they have amassed a large following in a short amount of time. The Kid is definitely a band to watch out for if you’re a fan of indie rock music.

Shorthand

Shorthand is a diverse musical group consisting of four members, with Abhinav Srikant on lead guitar, Govind Narayan on bass, Prithvi Iyer on drums and Sreya Muthukumar providing vocals. Their music is a blend of various genres such as jazz, funk and progressive rock. The band’s sound is dynamic and multifaceted due to their eclectic mix of influences.

Shorthand is a four-piece band from Delhi that delivers a fresh take on Indie Rock with their laid-back style and infectious melodies. They’ve played several music festivals, gaining wide recognition, and their song “Drowning” is a fan favorite.

Shorthand has triumphed in various college festivals held in Delhi. Their exceptional performances have garnered them numerous accolades and recognition. Currently, the band has embarked on a new project of recording their debut album, showcasing their passion and talent for music to a broader audience.

India’s music scene is currently experiencing a dynamic shift as talented bands take center stage with their fresh and innovative sounds. With a diverse range of genres to choose from, listeners are spoiled for choice with the sheer quality of music being produced. As these bands continue to push boundaries and challenge norms, we can only expect more exciting developments in the Indian music industry in the years to come.