ITV

Category: Music and Youth

  • BHOJPURI STARS CELEBRATE HOLI WITH B4U BHOJPURI AT VARANASI GHAT

    BHOJPURI STARS CELEBRATE HOLI WITH B4U BHOJPURI AT VARANASI GHAT

    Mumbai: B4U is one of Bharat’s oldest & leading entertainment networks with bouquet of 5 popular channels across 3 genres (B4U Music, B4U Movies, B4U Kadak, Dhamaka Movies & B4U Bhojpuri). Spanning across 3 Decades the network is dedicated to deliver quality & entertaining content to its viewers.

    The network recently organized a mega Holi event at the pious & famous Assi ghat of Varanasi, which saw the presence of almost all popular Bhojpuri stars. Eminent personalities like Hon’ble MP Shri Manoj Tiwari, Hon’ble MP Shri Dinesh Lal Yadav, Shri Khesari graced the event with their presence. The event was one of its kind wherein a beautiful set was created on the theme of Bhojpuri Holi at the ghats of revered river Ganga.

    All Bhojpuri stars performed and created magic through their singing & dancing performances. The event also saw some Impromptu singing performances by stalwart of Bhojpuri industry Shri Manoj Tiwari ji, which he is famous for.  

    On this occasion, Pawan Kumar Sharma (Business Head-B4U Network) said “B4U brand has always believed in providing quality & entertaining content to its audience. We strongly believe that as content provider, we owe a great responsibility towards our viewers and society at large and that’s visible through the type of content we’ve been producing for our leading channel-B4U Bhojpuri. We won’t shy away to admit that we’ve been the initiator & flag bearer of producing family content for Bhojpuri Market, which has worked really well and we are happy to see other players also adding great value by contributing to this trend. We carry a vison of not only setting new benchmarks for our product (B4U Bhojpuri), but contributing to the lives of each and every member of Bhojpuri cinema industry too.” He further added, “talking of about this mega event, I can proudly say that this event will definitely reverberate as one of the biggest ever Holi event done on Bhojpuri Landscape. We intentionally chose Varanasi as a Venue, being a strong Bhojpuri stronghold (being epicenter of Purvanchal) and most importantly the cultural and spiritual relevance attached with the place too.

    Sandeep Singh (Head Programming; B4U Bhojpuri) said that “ We at  B4U Bhojpuri are always eager to explore new possibilities in Bhojpuri genre. We ventured into home Production of Movies  and the same has done phenomenally well, breaking all records. Movies such as Badki didi, Saas Anadi Bahu Khiladi, Bahu Rani Saas Maharani, are ruling the TRP Charts. We followed the same excellence while designing Holi event also, which saw participation from all mega stars of Bhojpuri Industry and certainly a unique event in this genre. Look forward to create more magic

    Johnson Jain (CR0-B4U) said that our Holi extravaganza in Varanasi serves as a testament to our commitment to connecting with our audience at the grassroots level, while simultaneously diversifying revenue streams. Through this initiative, we leverage our expertise not only for our own benefit but also to offer innovative solutions to our partners in pursuit of growth

    We want to thank our partners @ITC @Coca Cola @P&G and @Adani for being part of this celebrations and showing trust in the brand. We stand committed together to cater to our consumers and provide best quality products.

    The said event will be telecasted on the day of Holi on 24th March 2024 at 6Pm and on 25th March 2024 at 10am on leading Bhojpuri channel-B4U Bhojpuri. 

  • The power of music in storytelling: Going beyond visuals in scripts

    The power of music in storytelling: Going beyond visuals in scripts

    Mumbai: In the realm of storytelling, where words sometimes fall short in capturing emotions, music emerges as a powerful language that bridges the gap. It not only complements the narrative but also enhances the viewer’s experience by filling the spaces between the lines with raw emotion. This article delves into the profound impact of music in storytelling, drawing insights from personal experiences and industry experts.

    Unlocking emotions:

    Giving an example of the recently released series Chamak on SonyLiv which is a crime drama set in the vibrant music industry of Punjab, where a son seeks revenge for his father’s untimely demise. In such narratives, where emotions run deep and words seem inadequate, music steps in as the silent yet eloquent narrator. It has the remarkable ability to evoke feelings that transcend language barriers, resonating with audiences worldwide.

    Creating Atmosphere :

    Beyond just accompanying scenes, music has the power to shape the entire atmosphere of a story. Whether it’s a haunting melody or an uplifting tune, the right composition can transport viewers into the heart of the narrative, immersing them in its world. From the poignant strains of a piano to the lively beats of a Punjabi folk song, each note adds depth and texture to the storytelling canvas.

    Enhancing performances:

    In the hands of skilled filmmakers, music becomes a transformative tool that can elevate performances and transcend the limitations of actors. Background scores not only underscore the emotions portrayed on screen but also have the ability to mask flaws and enhance the impact of both good and mediocre acting. Through strategic use of music, directors can breathe life into characters and evoke a spectrum of emotions in their audience.

    Time travel through music:

    One of the most remarkable aspects of music in storytelling is its ability to transcend time and space. Iconic themes like the haunting melody from “Karz” or the soul-stirring mouth organ theme from “Sholay” have become timeless classics, capable of transporting listeners back to a bygone era with just a few notes. Similarly, modern hits like the soundtrack of “Aashiqui 2” have the power to evoke feelings of love and nostalgia, tapping into universal emotions that resonate across generations.

    Storing emotions in melodies:

    What makes music truly powerful is its ability to encapsulate emotions within melodies, creating pockets of nostalgia that can be revisited time and again. Just like revisiting an old photograph brings back memories of a specific moment, hearing a familiar song can stir up emotions associated with past experiences. These emotional connections forged through music have the power to enrich storytelling, creating lasting impressions on audiences.

    In conclusion, the power of music in storytelling cannot be overstated. From evoking raw emotions to shaping entire atmospheres, music serves as a universal language that transcends the boundaries of culture and language. By harnessing the emotive power of music, storytellers can create immersive experiences that resonate with audiences long after the credits roll. As we continue to explore the endless possibilities of storytelling, let us never underestimate the transformative impact of a well-composed melody.

    The article has been authored by filmmaker, director and producer Rohit Jugraj.

  • “Your music needs to have a soul at the end of the day”: Sanjay Chhabria

    “Your music needs to have a soul at the end of the day”: Sanjay Chhabria

    Mumbai: In India, where music plays a huge role in the daily lives of the people, influencer marketing has emerged as a game-changer, offering artists a powerful tool to amplify their voices and reach new heights of fame and success. From Bollywood superstars to emerging indie musicians, artists of all genres and backgrounds are harnessing the reach and engagement of influencers to connect with fans, break down cultural barriers, and expand their audience reach.

    The essence of Hindi cinema music intertwines harmoniously with the vibrant rhythms of regional folk melodies, creating a symphony of sound that echoes across the Indian subcontinent. Music industry is undergoing a profound transformation, driven by the rising tide of digital influence and the power of social media. At the heart of this revolution lies influencer marketing, a phenomenon that has redefined the way artists connect with their audience and promote their music.

    In this article, Indiantelevision.com caught up with Everest Entertainment CEO Sanjay Chhabria, where he explained the profound impact of influencer marketing on the Indian music industry, examining how it has transformed the way artists promote their music, engage with their audience, and navigate the landscape of digital media.

    Edited excerpts

    On influencer marketing shaping the music industry

    Nowadays the trends have changed. Early days we used to just launch a song on YouTube and then the song used to perform if you have a certain number of subscribers. It used to perform on its own depending on the merit and demerit of the song. Things have changed now. Now it’s very important that music should have a hook step. It should have some sort of portion in the lyrics which has the potential to go viral. So it’s completely changed the way we started curating music.When we are trying to compose a curator song from a movie, we make sure we try our level best because it has to fit with the film. If you find some sort of a Way in which you can achieve both then great. So what we do is then you have that hook step, we get influencers on board like micro influencers, macro influencers etc. We deal with them sometimes paid, sometimes free. We get these hook steps recorded, reels made by them and then you have to plan it out at the end of the day. Before releasing a song, you need to have 40-50 reels ready and release those reels simultaneously so that the song catches everybody’s attention. That’s the way we try and create awareness so then it reaches the maximum number of people. That’s one way, doing the reels, having the hook step. Many times our songs don’t have a hook step. What we do is from a song, we give it to our choreographers maybe connected to the film or not connected to the film. We ask them to create a hook step out of it. So basically the idea and objective is to try and make the song as viral as possible on social media platforms, the upper platforms, the more urban platforms being Instagram and other ones like Moj, Chingari, Josh which caters to tier three audiences. It’s not easy now to just launch a song unless you have big names.

    On your music label and YouTube channel

    We have a music label Everest. We have a good library of about six seven hundred songs. These comprise film music and independent music. 25 per cent of my library is  independent music. The rest is film music. We will touch about four million followers now on our YouTube channel Everest Marathi which is one of the leading platforms today. We have the best quality content on this thing. We may not have the numbers, but our focus has always been quality over quantity.

    On the type of content consumers look for

    New trends are set with new innovations. Music has evolved over a period of time. You don’t know what works today. You have to keep on reinventing yourself, innovating yourself. It’s a constant process. But usually I’ve seen in the marathi space songs, which are connected to a little bit of folk. It helps a lot. The bigger numbers come from the smaller towns. The more grassrooted your music is, the more it penetrates into a larger number of audiences. I had released a film last year called Boys 4 that had a song, which was Gaav Sutana. It basically means a man is remembering his village life. That song was a slow starter but it has now crossed millions and it is growing steadily. It’s a song which every guy who’s come from the village resonates to. So if you have these kinds of themes then it will immediately strike a chord with the audiences. We do a lot of film music and you need to find that song in film music or you create independent songs around these popular themes. The music has to be good at the end of the day, just the thought alone is not enough. You need the music to be good enough as well.

    On content and music degradation been witnessed in recent times due to influencers

    Them being influencers, they manufacture all these reels. They have a very close-knit community. They support each other a lot. Like if you’re releasing a song I’ll create a reel of it and vice-versa. So the songs get that initial push, but I think what will happen is eventually it will become a case of too much. It will reach a saturation point. People eventually will get bored of it. Today look at Instagram reels. Everybody’s filming something or the other, everybody is not getting used to being earlier. It was bound to happen. Now it will become worse with AI tomorrow, with the kind of tools which will be available to people, they will shoot more songs. So you know this trend is going to become bigger. The question at the end of the day is you need good music. Your music needs to have a soul at the end of the day.

    On TV, digital and OTT market

    India is a diverse Market. Both these will coexist. Digital of course, is a rising market. More and more people are now consuming content on digital. Be it films, sports or daily soaps. A lot of people are now even watching daily soaps on OTT platforms. So that trend is of course there. But TV will not lose its value. TV is there to stay. There will be a strong market for TV. There will be a strong market for OTT also. In OTT, the challenges are getting money out of people. The subscription model is always a challenge. AVoD is strong for India. The advertising revenues on digital are growing on a year-round basis very fast. So AVod will always remain a good market. SvOD is where the challenges are. That all depends on the content offering of that platform. If the content offerings are compelling enough for people to subscribe they will. Just subscribing once is not enough. Retention is a bigger challenge for the same consumer not to leave the service. So customer acquisition and then customer retention are the challenges which are there and will always remain there. The TV audience is always there. The biggest fastest growing trend now is Fast TV, CTV or fast channels. We are by default habituated. We like to just press that plus button on the minus button on the remote to move channels. So that’s the advantage fast TV has. Most of the news channels are now available on fast TV.

    On the future of the influencer marketing

    At the end of the day content scores over everything else. Today if you have a bad film you may take the best of influencers and try to publicize it, it’s not going to work. People are going to sample the film and then reject it if your film is bad. It’s always content which rules everything. Influencers, according to me, are good for the advertising industry. In fact, I feel some of them are so overhyped today. People should actually properly do research. If I am taking an influencer, is he matching my profile? Just because he’s got two or five million or ten million followers. That doesn’t mean that profile matches the kind of profile my movie demands at the end of the day. So first, we need to do that exercise. 

  • SET launches Superstar Singer 3 and Madness Machayenge – India Ko Hasayenge

    SET launches Superstar Singer 3 and Madness Machayenge – India Ko Hasayenge

    Mumbai: Brace yourselves for a weekend filled with entertainment as Sony Entertainment Television brings viewers fresh weekend programming with the perfect combination of music and laughter. Homegrown format, Superstar Singer 3, will showcase the incredible vocal talent of young contestants from across the length and breadth of the country, while Madness Machayenge – India Ko Hasayenge will see a fresh lineup of experienced comedians, who will bring their unique brand of humor to the stage with sharper, wittier, and punchier jokes, that will leave you rolling on the floor.

    Premiering on 9 March 2024, at 8 pm, SuperStar Singer 3, produced by The Content Team, is a homegrown kids’ reality singing show that stands out as an epitome of talent, passion, and unbridled enthusiasm in the world of music competitions. This season distinguishes itself by acting as a platform that will not only preserve but also build upon the legacy and heritage of Indian music, by discovering ‘Sangeet Ke Naye Hunar Jo Banenge Kal Ke Darohar’. Raising the bar in the world of music, this show transcends mere entertainment to become a national platform where children shine, nurtured and mentored by Captains, Pawandeep Rajan, Arunita Kanjilal, Salman Ali, Mohd Danish, and Sayali Kamble. Indian pop sensation Neha Kakkar joins as the super judge, who will guide these young dynamites to push the envelope, accompanied by the charismatic host Haarsh Limbachiyaa who will encourage them and boost their spirits. This season is also elevated by the presence of legendary guests such as Pyarelal Ramprasad Sharma, Javed Akhtar, and Kavita Krishnamurthy who are sure to inspire these young aspiring singers to make a mark for themselves in the music industry. Fueled by the passion of young artists like Khushi Nagar, a 14-year-old with mesmerising vocals and unwavering devotion to Tulsi Das Ji, Laisel Rai, a singer who beautifully captures the essence of musical notes, and Shubhodeep Sutradhar, a 14-year-old instrumentalist and dynamic singer who will captivate the hearts of the viewers, among others, the show promises an unparalleled musical journey for this budding talent. Superstar Singer 3 is co-powered by Ching’s Schezwan Chutney, with special partner, Priyagold Butter Bite Biscuits.

    Get ready to laugh out loud with ‘Madness Machayenge – India Ko Hasayenge’, an uproarious extravaganza that is set to redefine comedy as we know it. Promising a riotous mix of varied formats that will have you rolling on the floor with the incredible Huma Qureshi as Madness ki Malkin and the dynamic Harsh Gujral as its host, this show is produced by Optimystix Entertainment India Pvt Ltd. From side-splitting stand-up routines to uproarious gags and skits, from roasting celebs and online sensations, to spoofs, and everything in between, this show is all set to break traditional norms and present a diverse range of styles through a stellar lineup of comedians such as Paritosh Tripathi, Kushal Badrike, Kettan Singh, Inder Sahani, Snehil Mehra (BC Aunty), Gaurav Dubey, Hemangi Kavi, and Ankita Shrivastav. These comedians, with their remarkable skills, bring a breath of fresh air to the world of comedy as they strive to push boundaries and set new benchmarks through their hilarious performances, making them true trailblazers in their field. Another unique segment that viewers will witness is the funny comedians taking on real-life serious jobs, tackling a new gig each week. Madness Machayenge – India Ko Hasayenge is co-presented by Lahori Zeera, with special partner, Priyagold Butter Bite Biscuits.

    Sony Entertainment Television, Sony SAB, PAL, and Sony MAX movie cluster business head Neeraj Vyas:

    As a brand, we’ve always been committed to entertaining viewers while making a difference in their lives. With our homegrown format, Superstar Singer 3, our goal is to offer a platform for budding talent to hone their skills and perpetuate the glorious tradition of Indian music. With ‘Madness Machayenge – India Ko Hasayenge!’, we are striving to break the mold and usher in a new era of comedy on Indian television with a wide-ranging format that allows seasoned and diverse comedians to do what they do best and make you laugh. We are excited to bring this exhilarating and wholesome family viewing experience to our audiences, promising unforgettable moments of harmony and laughter over the weekend.

    The Content Team Neeraj Sharma:

    We’re excited to raise the curtains for a highly anticipated third season of Superstar Singer; this show has been instrumental in nurturing young talent, and we’re sure that this edition of the show will introduce you to tomorrow’s superstars, with inspiring life narratives. The unmatched synergy between our 5 captains, legendary guest mentors, our Super Judge Neha Kakkar, and the captivating charm of our host, Haarsh Limbachiyaa, will ensure an unforgettable viewing experience for the audiences.

    Optimystix Entertainment India Pvt Ltd founding chairman & MD Vipul D Shah:

    Madness Machayenge – India Ko Hasayenge!’ is poised to revolutionise comedy by delivering unadulterated laughter, by some of India’s finest comedians. This groundbreaking show defies conventions by showcasing a diverse array of comedic styles from a stellar lineup of seasoned comedians. In collaboration with Sony Entertainment Television, we assure our audience an entertainment-packed stressbuster every weekend.

    Starting 9 March 2024, watch Superstar Singer Season 3 at 8.00 pm and Madness Machayenge – India Ko Hasayenge at 9.30 pm, only on Sony Entertainment Television.

  • Wynk curates special playlists with songs of women artists

    Wynk curates special playlists with songs of women artists

    Mumbai: In yet another initiative to spotlight women artists and celebrate women power, Wynk Music has curated special playlists to promote all women artists. Available in Hindi, English, Punjabi, Haryanvi, Tamil, Telugu, Bhojpuri, amongst other languages, the celebrated artists include Lata Mangeshkar to Shreya Ghoshal, to Nooran Sisters, to the numerous Wynk Music artists like Himani Kapoor, Nikhita Gandhi, Raveena Paul, Reena Gilbert, Bawri Basanti, amongst others who have given sensational hits in the year.

    Wynk celebrates all women artists round the year and has specially curated playlists across genres that are dedicated to women artists throughout the year, and these include Women in Indie, Women in Hip Hop, Women in RnB, Women in Pop, Women of K Pop and Women of EDM.  

    Initiatives such as these especially help independent artists as the playlists help drive greater discoverability and music streams for these artists enabling them with a wider reach and music distribution. Recently, Wynk also offers five of its independent women artists an unique opportunity to showcase their talent at Hornbill Music Festival – India’s biggest music festival which brings together the best of the music industry. These women artists from Wynk’s featured prominently in the event’s line up and grooved audiences to the best of their songs.

    Wynk Music enables its artists with multiple such platforms from time to time and these also include collaborations with other music labels, background score of Web series, OTT, live events et. al. amongst others, with an aim to help them build thriving music careers.

    https://open.wynk.in/LataMangeshkarHits

    https://open.wynk.in/ShreyaGhoshalHits

    https://open.wynk.in/WomenInIndie 

  • “We have manifested Royal Stag BoomBox with a vision to create the original sound of today’s generation”: Ishwindar Singh

    “We have manifested Royal Stag BoomBox with a vision to create the original sound of today’s generation”: Ishwindar Singh

    Mumbai: For many years, music has been a key consumer engagement pillar for the brand. Today, the youth tilts towards exploring exciting new forms of music. Contemporary genres such as hip-hop are becoming increasingly popular among the youth of the country, while Bollywood melodies remain integral to their cultural milieu. Royal Stag BoomBox intends to stir the imagination of this generation, blending music they have inherited, Bollywood scores, with the genre that speaks to them, Hip Hop. This mix will have the swag and emotional heft of Hindi cinema’s best compositions and the throbbing vibe and vigor of hip-hop.

    Leading a new cultural movement and catering to the interests of the young generation, Generation Large, Royal Stag BoomBox this year is slated to be bigger and better. Building on the exceptional success of the inaugural edition–which saw a footfall of 45,000 people across five cities–the property endeavors to enhance and build its impact across two engaging formats-

     .  The In-studio format: A unique phygital music concept featuring three original Melody x Hip Hop music tracks that will be released as singles and videos across platforms.

      . The On-ground format: This format will travel to four of India’s biggest youth hubs offering marquee musical performances with interactive physical activations.

    This year, the experiential music festival is bringing back headliners Badshah and Armaan Malik. Joining them are popular artists Neeti Mohan, Nikhita Gandhi (Melody), Dino James, DeeMC, and Ikka (Hip-Hop) and DJ Ali Merchant. The property will be travelling to four popular youth hubs in India, followed by the release of original songs.

    Indiantelevision.com caught up with Pernod Richard India’s general manager – marketing Ishwindar Singh, where he shared insights on the creation of Royal Stag BoomBox music property.

    Edited excerpts

    On the purpose behind the creation of the Royal Stag BoomBox music property     

    Seagram’s Royal Stag is one of the oldest flagship brands of Pernod Ricard India, inspiring the youth of India through its philosophy of “It’s Our Life. We Live It Large”. Aimed at the young, daring, confident, progressive, and inspiring individuals who embody self-belief, Royal Stag likes to communicate with music as one of its key engagement pillars.

    We have manifested Royal Stag BoomBox with a vision to create the original sound of today’s generation, Generation Large. The platform audaciously brings together two distinct genres of the music industry, the melody of Bollywood and the gully vibe of hip-hop, creating a new soundscape. By tapping into newer cities, which are excellent youth hubs, the brand is diversifying its marketing initiatives and connecting with its target audience on a deeper level.

    On catering to the tastes and preferences of today’s youth, particularly the Gen Z demographic

    Contemporary genres such as hip-hop are becoming more popular amongst the youth, while Bollywood melodies remain integral to their cultural milieu. Royal Stag BoomBox intends to stir the imagination of this generation, blending music they have inherited, Bollywood scores, with the emerging genre that speaks to them, hip-hop. They tilt towards exploring exciting new forms of music, and this is where Royal Stag BoomBox comes in.

    On Royal Stag BoomBox aiming to connect with the passion pillars of the youth

    Royal Stag BoomBox aims to connect with the youth by offering a larger-than-life experience, focusing on music. This involves curating experiences that genuinely resonate with the tastes and preferences of the youth demographic. We have identified and collaborated with popular musicians such as Badshah, Armaan Malik, Neeti Mohan, Nikhita Gandhi, Dino James, Ikka, Dee MC and Ali Merchant for the property this year, who have a strong following among the youth. By associating with these artists, we aim to build a deeper connect with our audiences, particularly in the Tier 2 and Tier 3 markets.

    On some of the key learnings from the inaugural edition

    In the inaugural edition, Royal Stag BoomBox manifested itself in two unique, engaging formats – the on-ground format and the in-studio format. With the on-ground format, the festival witnessed a footfall of over 50K across multiple cities, generating 180 Mn+ digital views & 13 Mn+ social interactions. Meanwhile, the original songs emerging from season 1’s in-studio format, Pehle Jaisi Baat Nahi Ft. Dino James X Jasleen Royal, Hoodie Ft. Bali X Nikhita Gandhi, Mohabbat Ft. Amit Trivedi X SlowCheeta and Imtihaan Ft. EPR X Neeti Mohan, garnered close to 70 Mn+ views across multiple OTT.

    The immense success of the inaugural edition compelled us to bring back Royal Stag BoomBox for its second season. This year, the on-ground format will travel to four of India’s biggest youth hubs—Bhubaneswar, Indore, Jaipur and Pune, offering marquee musical performances with interactive phygital activations like Insta-live sessions, art showcases, AR/VR installations, AI-based engagement, selfie-booths etc, which will create a festive feel at the venue. Meanwhile, the in-studio format which were very successful last year will be further enhanced with three new original Melody x Hip Hop music tracks that will be released as singles and videos across platforms later in the year.  

    On planning to leverage the presence of headliners like Badshah and Armaan Malik, along with other popular artists

    With a platform like Royal Stag BoomBox, where some of India’s best musicians come together to collaborate, the artists will always play a crucial role in amplifying the events’ impact and elevate the engagement with our target audience. While they help draw in an enthusiastic crowd at each of the on-ground festivals, the artists’ fan bases often extend beyond the immediate geographical location of the event, and we can see the impact in culture celebrating conversations in social media also. The headliner acts are often catalysts to elevate the experiences to another level, drive strong audience engagement and drive very strong youth reach and make Royal Stag Boombox a experience that lingers on long after the event is over.

    On the brand’s long-term vision for Royal Stag BoomBox

    We are looking at continuing our focus on building music as a key passion & engagement pillar with the youth through Royal Stag BoomBox. We look forward to expanding our presence in youth culture, both through physical and digital intervention, especially where cultural energy thrives. We will continue to forge new partnerships with a mix of culture shaping artists across our focus genres, ensuring that our platform resonates with its unique amalgamation of diverse musical tastes and experiences. Through these collaborations and immersive experiences, we aim to deepen our connection with the target audience, fostering a community that shares our passion for music and experience the ‘Live It Large’ philosophy.
     

  • TuneCore grant expands to South India

    TuneCore grant expands to South India

    Mumbai: TuneCore, the leading development partner for self-releasing artists—owned by Paris-based Believe, one of the world’s leading digital music companies—has announced the third edition of the TuneCore Grant program. The latest edition will provide endowments of INR 100,000 each to four independent artists who perform in Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, and Malayalam respectively. Artists can send in their entry via the TuneCore India website between 1 March and 31 March 2024.

    Artists can enter by submitting a single to be judged by a panel of industry experts consisting of Sam C.S (music composer), Ghibran (music composer), Neha Nair (singer/songwriter) and Padmanaban N.S. (Head of Artist and Label Partnerships).

    The TuneCore Grant was first launched in 2022 to provide financial support for rising independent artists to help further their careers. Since its inception, nearly 300 artists have participated in the program, submitting singles for consideration for the previous two editions.

    Discussing the growth of the program and this year’s focus on South India, TuneCore South Asia head  Akhila Shankar, said, “We’ve seen a burgeoning independent music scene emerging from the South with more artists choosing to create music in their native tongue. This is both worth celebrating and amplifying. With TuneCore Grant Punjabi we saw that the program directly led to a 40% increase in the number of TuneCore artists releasing music in the language. With each edition of the Grant, we hope to encourage more artists to release independently, express themselves in their language of choice, and contribute to India’s robust, diverse culture.”

    TuneCore artists in India release music in more than 25 local languages. The four languages selected for this edition of the grant represent some of the fastest growing languages in terms of number of releases per year.

    TuneCore VP International Tash Shah added, “At TuneCore, our international strategy thrives on fostering vibrant local music ecosystems around the world. The expansion of the TuneCore Grant to South India exemplifies this commitment. We believe financial empowerment at the grassroots level unlocks their creative potential.”

    Believe India & South Asia managing director Vivek Raina said, “Believe is committed to fostering local communities and artists singing in their local languages. As the independent music scene across the 5 southern states grows, we are committed to supporting artists at various stages through our network of services and programs”. 

  • ‘Class Lagegi’ campaign on Red FM’s morning show with RJ Raunac

    ‘Class Lagegi’ campaign on Red FM’s morning show with RJ Raunac

    Mumbai: Radio and entertainment network, Red FM partnered with the Mental Health Foundation for its latest spike campaign on Morning ‘Class Lagegi’ led by RJ Raunac. The campaign addressed the looming danger of stressing too much over exams while creating a safe space for students to be confined in.

     

     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     

    A post shared by Red FM (@redfmindia)

     

    Exam stress is a very real challenge as it takes a toll on the student’s physical and mental health if it’s not managed properly. Red FM, in its endeavour to help students deal with this stressful time positively, partnered with the Mental Health Foundation, affiliated with AIIMS. Together, they visited 10 top schools across Delhi/NCR including, Little Flower School, Army School, J M International, MRG School, Gurusharan Convent School, Sarvottam Public School, Children’s Academy, Myoor School, D A V School, and Maharaja Agrasen School engaging students and parents.

    As part of the initiative, the mental health experts addressed queries from both parents and students, offering valuable insights and coping strategies on-air and on the ground, in schools. The campaign became a riveting success underlining Red FM’s commitment to social responsibility and promoting mental health awareness, especially in the youth.

    Reflecting on the announcement, RED FM, and Magic FM, director & COO Nisha Narayanan said “With our spike campaigns, we often recognize relevant initiatives and leverage our platform as a means to create a change. This time, with “Class Lagegi” it was no different but it still made all the difference. Exam pressure is real, mental health problems are real, and sparking a conversation about these major setbacks in a student’s journey was a much-needed respite. The overwhelming response on-air and at schools where our teams visited with stress balls and stress-busting solutions was simply endearing. We sincerely hope the message will stay with our listeners and the stress will tone down.”

    Commenting on the initiative, Mental Health foundation India professor of Psychiatry at AIIMS and founder – Dr Nand Kumar said “With RED FM’s Class Lagegi, we have addressed a very important issue at the right time. In the current scenario, Parents and Students need to create the right conditions for the exam period instead of creating a stressful environment around it. Mental Health Foundation India believes in building a holistic model of mental healthcare and associating with RED FM for student’s well-being was a step towards our mission of taking Mental Health as a priority in every household”

  • Dolby and Ed Sheeran celebrate the transformative experience of Dolby Atmos Music

    Dolby and Ed Sheeran celebrate the transformative experience of Dolby Atmos Music

    Mumbai: Dolby Laboratories, Inc. (NYSE: DLB), a leader in immersive entertainment experiences, is teaming up with GRAMMY-winning singer-songwriter Ed Sheeran to kick off the start of its latest global brand campaign – “Love More in Dolby.” In this first instalment of the campaign, the global pop icon stars in a short concert vignette exploring his latest hit “Magical” from Autumn Variations, Sheeran’s seventh studio album. Directed by GRAMMY-nominated music video director and filmmaker Colin Tilley, the piece explores how Dolby Atmos unlocks artistic expression at its fullest creative capacity while visualizing how fans can “Love” Sheeran’s music even more when experienced in Dolby.

    “When Dolby Atmos first came out, I remember going around a mate’s house and trying it out and thinking ‘this is amazing,’” said Ed Sheeran. “Seeing companies like Dolby continue to make music better pushes me as well because when you are in the studio, you want to make something that sounds perfect. I think it’s incredible that Dolby Atmos is pushing music to new boundaries.”

    Adding to the celebration, Sheeran fans are invited to dive deeper into “Magical” through an exclusive Dolby Atmos-powered digital fan destination where they can experience loving music more in Dolby firsthand. The site also features a behind-the-scenes interview where Sheeran discusses his first experience with Dolby Atmos, his approach to making music, and the creative direction behind this latest ballad.

    The digital fan experience launches today in India.

    “Today, we kick off the celebration of ‘Love More in Dolby’ with Ed Sheeran, one of the most remarkable global artists of our time,” said Todd Pendleton, Senior Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer, Dolby Laboratories. “In this latest spotlight, we take viewers on a journey exploring the artistry of Ed’s latest song ‘Magical’ while visually illustrating how Dolby Atmos unlocks a more intimate listening experience, which allows fans to love their favourite artist even more when experienced in Dolby.”

    Dolby Atmos is a completely new way to create and experience music that delivers artistic expression at its fullest capacity, forging a deeper connection between artists and their fans. Music in Dolby Atmos goes beyond the ordinary listening experience by immersing you in the song, revealing details with unparalleled clarity and depth. Whether it’s hearing the layers of instruments move all around, catching the subtle breath a singer takes between lyrics, or being enveloped in a wave of melodies, nothing compares to hearing music in Dolby Atmos. Fans can enjoy “Magical,” Autumn Variations, and other Sheeran favorites today in Dolby Atmos on Apple Music, Amazon Music, and TIDAL.

    For Sheeran fans in India, Dolby is also offering the opportunity to enter a sweepstakes for a chance to win tickets to Ed Sheeran India Tour, AirPods and movie vouchers. Terms and conditions apply. No purchase is necessary. Ends March 16, 2024, at 11:59 pm IST.

  • Papon’s music concert unveiled across four cities

    Papon’s music concert unveiled across four cities

    Mumbai: TribeVibe Entertainment Pvt. Ltd, Perfect Harmony Productions, and Panache Media have announced the highly anticipated Papon Live concert, presented by Royal Challenge American Pride Soda. Kicking off in Lucknow on 17 February 2024, the concert promises electrifying performances by Papon, followed by captivating shows in Indore, Mumbai, and Pune.

    Renowned for his soulful melodies, Papon has left an indelible mark on the Indian Music Industry with his heart-soothing and remarkable songs. His repertoire includes iconic tracks such as ‘Kyon’, ‘Bulleya’, ‘Jiyein Kyun’, and ‘Tu Jo Mila’ and many more. With his unique blend of folk, classical, and contemporary styles, Papon has captivated audiences nationwide and earned widespread acclaim for his musical prowess and emotive performances.

    TribeVibe Entertainment Pvt. Ltd CEO & founder Shoven Shah expressed enthusiasm about the upcoming event, stating, “We are thrilled to showcase Papon’s exceptional talent to our audience. At TribeVibe, our dedication lies in crafting distinctive and memorable live experiences, and Papon’s concert perfectly embodies this commitment.”

    Singer Papon expressed his excitement, stating, “I am thrilled to embark on this musical journey in 2024 and connect with fans across India. I eagerly anticipate sharing the magic of music with audiences in various cities, and I am grateful for the opportunity to collaborate with TribeVibe Entertainment, Panache Media and Perfect Harmony Productions. Together, we aim to create an enchanting evening that resonates with music lovers nationwide.”

    Perfect Harmony Productions CEO & founder Abhinav Kumar Upadhyay expressed excitement about the upcoming event, stating, “We are thrilled to present Papon’s incredible talent to our audience. At Perfect Harmony Productions, we aim to curate unforgettable live experiences, and Papon’s concert promises to be a highlight.”

    Tickets are exclusively available on www.bookmyshow.com