We conversed musically: Rasika Shekar
For her latest single, Uproar, Rasika Shekar collaborated with three international artistes. The flautist and vocalist has also sung Bollywood songs like Sau Aasoon (Katti Batti), Hulla Re (2 States), and Daiyya Maiyya (Kill Dill), but is just as adept at rendering other genres. “My main vocabulary is Carnatic,” she says, while also counting names of international artistes she has enjoyed collaborating with. The musician talks about her multi-genre prowess.
After ghazals, Bollywood, and electronic music, is there a genre you haven’t tried yet?
I haven’t tried R&B and hip hop yet or explored the music from far east where the bamboo flute has cousins. I think I am going to try these soon.
Who have been your favourite collaborators?
John McLaughlin is amazing. Just being with him on the stage has a different vibe. You can really feel it. He incorporates all the musicians in his set and gives everyone a chance to play solos. He also shared his journey with us when we played together. I really cherish playing with Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy. I have learnt what it means to be an artiste from the trio. They have an open-minded approach towards music. Their passion and dedication are very inspiring.
