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Tag: Preeti Nayyar

  • Karma drops truth bombs in ‘Zi Freestyle’ as 64 Bars returns for season 3

    Karma drops truth bombs in ‘Zi Freestyle’ as 64 Bars returns for season 3

    MUMBAI: Bar none, hip-hop just got real. Def Jam Recordings India and Red bull have teamed up once again to unleash season 3 of Red Bull 64 Bars, the platform that strips rap back to its purest form, 64 lines, no hooks, no fluff, just raw lyricism and storytelling.

    https://open.spotify.com/album/1NZfcJlmwxaOt9z9tTIePU?si=od7C1BNBQhe6eZk9uu0YDg

    The season opens with a bang as rapper Karma joins forces with producer Stunnah Beatz on “Zi Freestyle” a track that sways from smooth, jazz-soaked textures into a hard-hitting beat, mirroring Karma’s verses that blend vulnerability with bravado.

    “Working on Zi Freestyle was an incredible experience,” Karma said. “The format pushes you to focus on the essence of the craft, pure bars and storytelling. Stunnah’s production was the perfect canvas to lay down my truth.”

    Launched globally, Red Bull 64 Bars challenges both rising and established MCs to showcase skill over spectacle. It’s about words, rhythm and authenticity, not chart hooks. Last year’s standout, Vazan by Sambata, became a fan favourite, and season 3 promises to push the envelope further.

    Industry leaders say the format is fuelling India’s hip-hop movement. “Red Bull 64 Bars is one of the most exciting platforms for hip-hop in India,” said UMG India & south Asia, new business & brand partnerships, svp & business head, Preeti Nayyar. “With Def Jam as the perfect home, this collaboration reflects our commitment to championing new voices and celebrating India’s music culture.”

    Adding to that, UMG, head of independent artist collective, Sumedhas Rajgopal, noted: “The format gives artists the freedom to express themselves in the most authentic way. With season 3, we’re bringing fresh performances from rappers and producers who’ll keep pushing boundaries.”

    Zi Freestyle by Karma and Stunnah Beatz is now streaming on all major platforms, setting the tone for a season that proves when it comes to hip-hop, it’s all about the bars.

  • Def Jam Recordings India, UMGB & Red Bull launch new season of Red Bull 64 Bars

    Def Jam Recordings India, UMGB & Red Bull launch new season of Red Bull 64 Bars

    Mumbai: Def Jam Recordings India, in partnership with Universal Music Group for Brands (UMGB), announced a dynamic collaboration with Red Bull to launch the highly anticipated new season of Red Bull 64 Bars. This collaboration aims to shine a spotlight on India’s vibrant hip-hop talent, delivering eight original tracks that represent the country’s diverse music, culture across multiple languages.

    Originally conceptualised by Red Bull, Red Bull 64 Bars stands apart from traditional rap formats by eliminating commercial elements like hooks and refrains, allowing artists to focus purely on raw lyricism and beats. This stripped-back format highlights the unfiltered skill and authenticity of rappers and producers, fostering genuine artistic expression. Powered by the influence and reach of UMG’s premium hip-hop label, Def Jam Recordings India, this season promises an exciting roster of some of India’s most talented emcees, along with a star-studded lineup of producers and artists.

    The format is straightforward, although it does involve a bit of understanding of rhythm and beats. In music (and specifically hip-hop) a single bar is a measure of four counts over a beat. For 64 bars, that means there’s room enough for approximately two minutes of words. Usually, a bar is one aspect of rap vocals, which often form the verse of a song and then there’s the chorus or the hook.

    Season one of Red Bull 64 Bars featured a series of 10 rappers from around the country who worked with Mumbai’s ace beatsmith Karan Kanchan to create a new track that’s all bars. The artists included Bengaluru-based rappers such as Hanumankind and RANJ, plus Mumbai’s cream of the crop, including Dee MC, Shah Rule, MC Altaf, Tienas and Trichia Grace-Ann Rebello, also Delhi NCR bred rappers Agsy and Rawal, and Mohali-based Sikander Kahlon.

    Senior vice president & business head – new business & brand partnerships, India & South Asia, Preeti Nayyar shared, “At UMG for Brands, supporting emerging artists has always been at the heart of what we do. The 64 Bars concept has captured our interest for some time, and we knew it was the kind of project we wanted to champion and partner with. Now that it’s finally happening, we couldn’t be more excited to be part of it. This collaboration perfectly aligns with our mission to foster creativity and elevate the next wave of hip-hop talent in India. With Def Jam Recordings India being the best fit from our labels, we’re uniquely positioned to amplify this initiative. We are thrilled to be part of this incredible initiative that showcases the richness and diversity of India’s music culture through Hip-Hop. It’s a unique platform for artists to share their personal stories with the world, and we couldn’t be more excited to contribute.”

    The new season will feature three of India’s top producers — Karan Kanchan, Sez On The Beat, and Parimal Shais — who will infuse their unique creative energies into the project, shaping the future of Indian hip-hop with their distinctive styles.

    Universal Music Group head of the independent artist collective Sumedhas Rajgopal shared his excitement about the collaboration, “This partnership with Red Bull’s 64 Bars underscores our commitment to elevating and empowering the voices of Indian hip-hop talent. At Def Jam Recordings India, we are passionate about preserving the authenticity of the genre, the culture and Red Bull 64 Bars perfectly aligns with that vision. This platform gives artists the freedom to express themselves without limitations, and we are thrilled to bring these powerful, original tracks to the world. India’s hip-hop scene is evolving rapidly, and we’re proud to play a role in its journey.”
     

  • Experience love through music with Hyundai Spotlight’s latest song ‘Laike Gaddi’

    Experience love through music with Hyundai Spotlight’s latest song ‘Laike Gaddi’

    Mumbai: Hyundai Spotlight, the platform known for its innovative musical creations, is thrilled to announce the release of its 5th song- “Laike Gaddi”, a mesmerizing love story brought to life through music.

    This enchanting composition narrates the heartwarming journey of love portrayed by the charismatic Jassie Gill, and his love interest, the talented Veera Takker. Set against the backdrop of vibrant Punjab, the song captures the essence of romance, longing, and the triumph of true love.

    Jassie Gill, a household name in the world of Punjabi entertainment, effortlessly embodies the passion and fervour of his character, delivering a performance that is both soulful and captivating. His portrayal of the smitten protagonist resonates deeply with audiences, evoking a range of emotions with every note.

    Reflecting on his thoughts, Jassie Gill shares, “Hyundai Spotlight is a great initiative and being a part of their exhilarating journey gives me immense Joy. It’s beautiful song that touches the soul, and I am grateful for the opportunity to lend my voice to such a lovely narrative.”

    Veera Takker, a rising star with a soulful voice, shines bright in her portrayal of the introverted yet enchanting Veera. Through her emotive performance, she brings depth and authenticity to her character, captivating listeners with her talent and charm.

    Veera expresses her excitement, stating, “Working on this song has been a dream come true for me. Collaborating with such esteemed artists and being a part of Hyundai Spotlight’s journey has been an enriching experience.”

    Hyundai Motor India AVP & vertical head, marketing, Virat Khullar shared, “Hyundai Spotlight continues to showcase unique musical creations and promote emerging talent across the country. Our collaboration with rising music artists underscores our commitment to providing a platform for them to collaborate with renowned musicians, exhibit their talents, and foster artistic growth. Hyundai Spotlight embodies our shared vision of pushing creative boundaries and delivering unparalleled musical experiences to audiences throughout the region. We are confident that Hyundai Spotlight will inspire many young artists to create music that resonates deeply with both themselves and their audiences.”

    Business head & SVP, UMG for Brands, India, and South Asia Preeti Nayyar stated, “I am delighted to witness the collaboration between Hyundai Spotlight and popular, much-loved artists like Jassie Gill, and Veera Takker. This partnership not only reflects our commitment to innovative storytelling but also underscores the power of music to transcend boundaries and connect with audiences on all level.”

    Hyundai Spotlight in collaboration between Hyundai Motor India Ltd. and Universal Music India (Universal Music Group for Brands, India), is a ground-breaking music series that celebrates exceptional musical talents from around the world. Through powerful collaborations, innovative compositions, and captivating performances, Hyundai Spotlight supports emerging and established artists, celebrating the richness and diversity of music.

  • Universal Music Group felicitates partner brands amidst India’s largest Artist showcase in Delhi

    Universal Music Group felicitates partner brands amidst India’s largest Artist showcase in Delhi

    Mumbai: The Universal Music Group in India recently announced big growth moves including upping of its regional leadership during the visit of Adam Granite – CEO Africa, Middle East and Africa (AMEA) – to Mumbai & the Capital last week.

    Chairman CEO Devraj Sanyal, along with Sanujeet Bhujabal, MD Universal Music India & South Asia & Preeti Nayyar, SVP & Business Head UMG for Brands, India & South Asia hosted two big celebrations in both cities in honour of Adam’s visit, which saw the who’s who of the artist, composer, producer, singer writer community in attendance, in respect to Universal Music’s always-on, artist- first way of life.

    Badshah, Neha & Tony Kakkar, Harrdy Sandhu, Divine, Jaani, Kanika Kapoor, MC Stan, Kanishk & Kavita Seth, Dino James, Dhanda Nyoliwala (who flew in special from Australia), MC Square, Paradox, DG Immortals, Raga, Gulzar Cheniwala, Vilen were some of the stars that showed up and discussed the future of an artist-centric economy to come.

    Amidst the performances from some of the most promising emerging stars of tomorrow, UMG for Brands felicitated three of their partners – also some of the biggest global majors in their respective categories – Hyundai, Coca Cola, Pernod Ricard.

    Team UMGB along with Adam & Devraj celebrated these special partnerships for taking the lead in enabling cultural change through music & music-led IPs in partnership with Universal Music Group.

    In an increasingly cluttered environment of consumers’ mind-space that exists today, brands across categories are resorting to differentiated thinking and marketing vehicles to capture share-of-voice.

    Music has always been at the heart of engaging the consumer with the brand’s narrative. But the trio of brands: Hyundai, Coca Cola, Pernod Ricard – as diverse as automobile, alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages – are taking this several steps further, by using the undeniable power of music and artistry as a focal point in their marketing strategy. These three brands have consistently collaborated with UMG for Brands over the last few years, to produce some incredible and distinctive music led IPs and getting together artists across a wide spectrum and languages. Thus, they have been at the forefront of effecting a cultural paradigm shift through music, with UMG for Brands being a solid partner all through.

    Through Hyundai’s Spotlight, Coca Cola’s Coke Studio Bharat (Season 1 and 2) and Pernod Ricard’s “Royal Stag Boombox” (Season 2) – some of the most sought-after names in the music and entertainment business have churned out some chartbuster tracks. These brands have effectively used music to communicate their core messaging, bring fans closer to the artists and drive brand love. UMG for Brands appreciates their association and the evening that was to bring all these entities together to formally recognise their contribution.

    Sanyal said, “Globally our Music & Brands business is the biggest & the most recognised because we partner with some of the smartest & most innovative CXOs in the world over & even here it’s really no different. My friends Tarun from Hyundai, Arnab from Coke & Karthik from PR are the best-in-class marketeers in their categories, willing to push the envelope every day to be better, ahead of the curve & absolutely world class and I couldn’t be more honoured to celebrate that especially in the presence of my boss & partner Adam.

    Hyundai Motor India Ltd COO Tarun Garg said :  Hyundai Spotlight is our one-of-a-kind enabler platform, that aims to discover, incubate, and promote emerging musical talent in India. Through Hyundai Spotlight, we are connecting with the young aspirational generation of India that wants authentic brand experiences. Collaborating with UMG India has been an incredible journey, where both brands have come together to blend their passion for innovation in musical heritage. Together, Hyundai Motor India and UMG India are harmonizing technology and artistry to create unforgettable experiences for the audiences, ensuring that each interaction leaves a lasting impression. This initiative not only uplifts young artists but also enhances the overall customer experience by providing exclusive, high-quality musical content. We are glad to be associated with UMG India and we are always looking to motivate young artists to blossom and come forward to showcase their talent.

    Roy said : It has been a fantastic journey with UMG on Coke Studio Bharat – our number one vehicle to build the cultural connect  in an authentic way . UMG has been helping us with powerful insights on the musical front that helped deliver super hits like Khalasi, Holi Re Rasiya amongst many other songs.

    Mohindra said, “Boombox is a critical part of our youth outreach for Royal Stag #Liveitlarge and we’re super pleased that our partnership with UMGB has helped evolve this incredibly important property in a holistic and future forward manner setting it up for the next few years to become the most valuable and exciting music led IP, not just for India but for Bharat.”

    Nayyar said: It’s encouraging and reassuring to see our partners and our artists coming together for both of our showcase events . We thank them all for trusting us over the years with their precious brands.

  • Women of Music India: India’s much awaited women in music community

    Women of Music India: India’s much awaited women in music community

    Mumbai: The Women of Music India (WOMI) has officially opened its doors for membership. The foundation is a women-led community that aims to make the Indian music industry more accessible to women across the globe. In addition to artists across genres, WoMI also caters to the music workforce, from artist managers, executives, label heads to photographers, stylists, hair and make-up artists, journalists and more.

    Set up with the goal of amplifying voices of women from the ecosystem and open the door for the next generation of women entering the music industry. The membership will be free of cost to all persons who identify as women. On 23rd November, they launched a campaign that has garnered support across the board with the first cohort of members including artists like Jonita Gandhi, Jasleen Royal, Kamakshi Khanna and business executives Preeti Nayyar (SVP- brand partnerships, Universal Music Group), Ankita Maheshwari (GM – people manager, Sony Music India), Shreya Khaladkar (comms lead, Believe).  

    Speaking about the need for organizations like WOMI, early supporter and member, rapper Raja Kumari said, “It’s time for the mic to be passed on and let women take the lead too”.

    Another member of the community singer-songwriter Jasleen Royal expanded, “We should remove the barriers faced by women in the music industry, and that can only happen if we bring in more women ”.

    Execs and professionals from the music industry have pledged their support to help members get access to an extensive community of professionals, early access to opportunities, job listings, mentorship programs, industry-led workshops, and events across the country for networking.

    Universal Music Group  Sr VP brand partnerships Preeti Nayyar said, “We’re pooling in our resources, ideas and experience to allow more women to obtain the skills required to join the industry”.  

    Bluprint co-founder, Sweta Ojha said, “This initiative gives us the chance to build a community that can support each other and get more women a seat at the table across all areas of the music business”.

    As the Indian music industry is receiving more attention across global markets and continues to diversify, Women of Music India, is emerging as an outcome of this transforming landscape. With the purpose of making more voices in the industry heard, WoMI is a step towards change.