Where Independent Music Finds Its Voice

Interview with Shashank Chandel: The Indie-Folk Sensation from Mumbai

Shashank Chandel, an indie-folk singer-songwriter and music producer from Mumbai, India, shares insights into his musical journey and creative process. Growing up in Kalyan, a suburb of Mumbai, Shashank was immersed in a culturally rich environment that fueled his passion for music. Influenced by artists like Raghu Dixit, Indian Ocean, and John Legend, Shashank developed a unique style blending soulful melodies with heartfelt storytelling.

Shashank’s music is rooted in indie-folk, with elements of contemporary influences and emotional depth. His most cherished song, ā€œSoul,ā€ addresses themes of mental stress and self-discovery, resonating with listeners on a profound level. Shashank encourages new listeners to explore his music for its genuine emotional connection and introspective lyrics.

Looking ahead, Shashank is working on his next album, ā€œWIP ā€“ Work In Progress,ā€ featuring original tracks and covers that push his creative boundaries. He also plans to collaborate with prominent Bollywood artists, blending indie-folk with traditional and contemporary Bollywood music. In the next five years, Shashank aspires to establish himself as a prominent figure in both indie-folk and mainstream music, continuing to touch hearts worldwide with his evolving sound.

A funny anecdote from his career includes a mishap during a college festival performance, where his guitar strap came undone mid-song, leading to a humorous and memorable interaction with the audience.

About: Shashank Chandel is an emerging indie-folk artist from Mumbai, known for his soulful vocals, innovative music production, and emotionally resonant lyrics. His music has gained global recognition, making him a significant name in the indie-folk genre. Shashank continues to captivate audiences with his original compositions and unique interpretations of classic tracks, and is poised for further success with upcoming projects and collaborations.

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Tell us about yourself, who are you and where do you come from?

Iā€™m Shashank Chandel, an indie-folk singer-songwriter and music producer from Mumbai, India. Music has always been a central part of my life, and my journey began in the vibrant and culturally rich environment of Mumbai. Growing up in Kalyan, a suburban area of Mumbai, I was exposed to a diverse range of music, which fueled my passion for singing and playing the guitar. With the support of my family and guidance from mentors, I decided to pursue music as a career. Over the years, Iā€™ve developed my unique sound, blending soulful melodies with heartfelt lyrics, and Iā€™m on a mission to connect with listeners through my music.

How was your passion for music born? Who are your idols?

My musical inspirations include a diverse mix of artists who have shaped my sound and approach to music. From India, Raghu Dixit, Coshish, Indian Ocean, Papon, Swarathma, and Ankur Tewari have deeply influenced me, each bringing their own unique blend of traditional and contemporary music that resonates with the soul. Internationally, Iā€™m inspired by John Legend and Christopher Nolan, who are masters of storytelling and emotion in their music. These artists have shown me the power of music to connect with people on a deep, emotional level, and they continue to inspire my journey as a musician.

What kind of music do you do?

I create music that blends indie-folk with elements of soulful ballads and heartfelt storytelling. My style is rooted in emotional depth, where I aim to connect with listeners through lyrics that resonate with real-life experiences and melodies that linger in the mind. I enjoy reinterpreting classic songs with my own twist, especially in the realm of indie-folk, but I also explore various genres, including contemporary and electronic influences. My music often reflects themes of love, introspection, and personal growth, making it both relatable and emotionally engaging for a diverse audience.

What is the most important song for you? What message do you want to convey to the listener?

The most important song for me is “Soul,” one of my recent singles. This track holds a special place in my heart because it delves into themes of mental stress and self-discovery, subjects that are deeply personal and relevant to many people. Through “Soul,” I aim to convey a message of introspection and resilience. I want listeners to feel understood and find solace in the idea that they are not alone in their struggles. The song encourages a journey of self-reflection and emphasizes the importance of acknowledging and addressing oneā€™s inner emotions. Ultimately, my goal is to inspire and uplift, providing a sense of connection and hope through the power of music.

Why should a listener who doesnā€™t know you listen to your music?

Listeners who are unfamiliar with my music should give it a listen because it offers a genuine and emotionally resonant experience. My songs blend indie-folk influences with heartfelt storytelling, creating a sound that is both fresh and relatable. Whether itā€™s through soulful melodies, introspective lyrics, or unique reimaginings of classic tracks, my music aims to connect with listeners on a personal level. If you appreciate music that speaks to the heart, provides comfort, and invites reflection, you might find something special in my work. Each song is crafted to evoke emotion and foster a deeper connection, making it a meaningful addition to any music lover’s playlist.

What are your future projects? Where do you see yourself 5 years from now?

Iā€™m excited about several upcoming projects that I believe will further define my musical journey. Currently, Iā€™m working on my next album, titled “WIP – Work In Progress,” which will feature a mix of new original tracks and innovative covers. This album aims to push my creative boundaries and offer fresh perspectives on themes of love, personal growth, and introspection. In addition to the album, Iā€™m planning collaborations with renowned Bollywood artists, which will blend my indie-folk style with elements of traditional and contemporary Bollywood music. These collaborations will allow me to explore new musical horizons and reach a broader audience. In five years, I envision myself as a well-established artist with a strong presence in both the indie-folk and mainstream music scenes. I hope to have released multiple albums that resonate deeply with listeners and to have built a reputation for producing music that is both innovative and emotionally impactful. I also aim to continue growing my international audience and expanding my influence through live performances, collaborations, and perhaps even exploring opportunities in music production and songwriting for other artists. Ultimately, I want my music to continue evolving, touching hearts, and connecting with people around the world.

Tell our readers a funny episode that happened in your career as an artist.

One funny episode from my career happened during a live performance early on. I was playing a set at a college festival, and I had just introduced a new song that I was really excited about. As I started playing, I noticed that the audience was a bit restless and not as engaged as I had hoped. In the middle of the song, I glanced down and realized that my guitar strap had come undone, and my guitar was slowly sliding down! I tried to keep playing and singing, but I couldnā€™t help but laugh at the situation. Eventually, I had to stop the performance, reattach the strap, and start again. The audience appreciated the humor in the moment and cheered me on. It was a humbling experience, but it reminded me that sometimes, the best way to connect with an audience is to just be yourself and not take things too seriously. Plus, it made for a great story to share with friends and fans!

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