It’s World Music Day on June 21. The day is celebrated every year by music lovers across the globe. On this occasion we got in touch with Sherrin Varghese, team member of Band of Boys, formed in 2001, along with Karan Oberoi, Sudhanshu Pandey, Siddharth Haldipur and Chin2 Bhosle which is India ‘s first and only Boy Band. Sherrin Varghese has always been vocal about independent musicians and has always supported them. It was during an exclusive conversation that he spoke of his contribution to the independent music scenario, through his digital live stream titled “The Circuit of Hope”.
He also shed light on many other ongoing issues and discourses pertaining to the music industry and it’s current ways.
Excerpts from the conversation:
Sonu Nigam recently in his YouTube video said, the Music Industry is controlled by two “Mafias”? Do you agree with him? What is your take on it?
Sherrin Varghese: Yes, I do agree with Sonu Nigam that it is a “Mafia” based music industry in our country & it takes guts to call it. But the irony is he himself has come up through this same “Mafia”, not withstanding his talent. If we see winners of every singing reality show, after winning the title they struggle a lot to get a Bollywood song or foothold in the industry & many get depressed due to this lack of opportunity controlled by the top lot.
Do you think music needs a special day to be celebrated?
Sherrin Varghese: Yes, music does need a special day to celebrate itself. This is the only way people will get to know different genres, cultures, and people of music around the world. People often limit themselves to specific songs or genres – use the day to learn more, explore more.
Since shoots and recordings of songs are on pause, what changes have you observed or felt during this lockdown?
Sherrin Varghese: I guess, sometimes you need a break from everything that is going on in your life. A cycle like this forces one to contemplate and figure what meaning & value one can create for oneself & others.
Have you thought of bringing your show ‘The Circuit’ back?
Sherrin Varghese: I have started a new variant of the show called ‘The Circuit Of Hope’, which is Live streamed every Tuesday. This is an interview-based show, profiling skills, teachings & wise words from industry professionals. The idea behind this show is to keep people busy during this lockdown so they don’t step out beyond need.
Sherrin Varghese also expressed his thoughts about songs that are being released during this pandemic. He says, “I think the cheesiest thing to do is a song about a pandemic”. The singer also mentioned his recent work – “Right now I am working with Rotary Club of Bombay towards an online Musical fundraiser contributing to education for students affected by COVID 19”.
