Amidst a backdrop of growing demand for live music, India is experiencing a transformative moment in the concert scene. With Coldplay and Ed Sheeran making their way to the country, fans have a newfound excitement. Recent performances, such as Dua Lipa's concert in Mumbai, have set the stage for what many hope will be a wave of international talent. In the coming weeks, Coldplay is expected to draw crowds of more than 100,000 at their shows in Ahmedabad, nine years after their last performance.
The growing appeal of the Indian market cannot be overlooked, as ticket sales platform BookMyShow projects an 18% increase in 2024 sales. The music industry in India, valued at 19 billion rupees in 2021, is predicted to almost double by 2026, presenting untapped potential for artists looking to reach younger audiences. With a significant portion of India's population under the age of 30, marketing experts suggest that Western artists are increasingly recognizing the country as a hotspot for new fans.
This shift offers glimmers of hope for local musicians. With international artists headlining, Indian performers see opportunities to elevate their careers. Anoushka Maskey, an aspiring artist, reflects on her excitement, noting that exposure to global acts can inspire homegrown talent. Similarly, pop singer Anumita Nadesan believes that collaborations with larger artists are invaluable for visibility and professional growth.
The infusion of global talent also brings lessons in cultural exchange. Bangalore’s Frizzell D'Souza cites Ed Sheeran's humble beginnings as an inspirational tale for Indian audiences. The potential for Indian artists to share their sound on an international stage has increased, exemplified by collaborations that have gained traction globally.
However, concerns mount regarding the overshadowing of local talent. While some artists fear that audiences may gravitate solely toward bigger names, others believe that this competition may raise the bar for smaller acts. Music journalist Peony Hirwani points out that the inclusion of local support acts is becoming a norm, helping to boost their careers.
To ensure the continued growth of India's music scene, improving infrastructure is pivotal. Current concert venues are often inadequate, being frequently occupied for sports events. Advocates stress the necessity for larger, dedicated music venues to attract more prominent acts like Taylor Swift and Beyoncé, who have yet to perform in the country.
As India embraces this fresh era of musical opportunity with international stars, the chance for local artists to shine equally bright remains alive, promising an exhilarating next chapter in the nation’s music journey.
The growing appeal of the Indian market cannot be overlooked, as ticket sales platform BookMyShow projects an 18% increase in 2024 sales. The music industry in India, valued at 19 billion rupees in 2021, is predicted to almost double by 2026, presenting untapped potential for artists looking to reach younger audiences. With a significant portion of India's population under the age of 30, marketing experts suggest that Western artists are increasingly recognizing the country as a hotspot for new fans.
This shift offers glimmers of hope for local musicians. With international artists headlining, Indian performers see opportunities to elevate their careers. Anoushka Maskey, an aspiring artist, reflects on her excitement, noting that exposure to global acts can inspire homegrown talent. Similarly, pop singer Anumita Nadesan believes that collaborations with larger artists are invaluable for visibility and professional growth.
The infusion of global talent also brings lessons in cultural exchange. Bangalore’s Frizzell D'Souza cites Ed Sheeran's humble beginnings as an inspirational tale for Indian audiences. The potential for Indian artists to share their sound on an international stage has increased, exemplified by collaborations that have gained traction globally.
However, concerns mount regarding the overshadowing of local talent. While some artists fear that audiences may gravitate solely toward bigger names, others believe that this competition may raise the bar for smaller acts. Music journalist Peony Hirwani points out that the inclusion of local support acts is becoming a norm, helping to boost their careers.
To ensure the continued growth of India's music scene, improving infrastructure is pivotal. Current concert venues are often inadequate, being frequently occupied for sports events. Advocates stress the necessity for larger, dedicated music venues to attract more prominent acts like Taylor Swift and Beyoncé, who have yet to perform in the country.
As India embraces this fresh era of musical opportunity with international stars, the chance for local artists to shine equally bright remains alive, promising an exhilarating next chapter in the nation’s music journey.
