Exclusive: Alan Walker Announces New Song With Pritam Ahead of India Tour
The Norwegian electronic artist and the Bollywood composer will release ‘Children of the Sun’ featuring singer Vishal Mishra via Warner Music India on Sept. 26
Alan Walker live in concert. Photo: Fredrik Wiinge
With Alan Walker’s upcoming Sunburn/Walkerworld India tour set to kick off on Sept. 27 in Kolkata, the Norwegian DJ-producer is making more moves within the country.
Today, Walker and Pritam announced their new song “Children of the Sun,” which will release on Sept. 26 via Warner Music India. The track, which is described as one that draws from Eighties synthwave as well as modern electronic production, also features a children’s choir and singer Vishal Mishra.
Pritam – who has previously worked with EDM artist Marshmello on “Biba” with singer Shirley Setia in 2019 – said in a press release about the song and his collaboration with Walker, “Music has the power to heal, inspire, and unite. I hope that ‘Children Of The Sun’ will touch the hearts of listeners around the world and bring a message of hope and unity.”
In an interview with Rolling Stone India, Walker talks about how the collaboration with Pritam came about, embarking on his longest tour of India so far and his upcoming album Walkerworld.
Rolling Stone India: What can you tell me about your upcoming project with Pritam? How did the connection happen and what is this track called?
Alan Walker: It’s so exciting! I first met Pritam in 2019, and we connected instantly and it almost felt like we share so much in common musically. We have been in touch since and share our work outside of our collaboration with each other for creative input. So, it’s incredibly fun to finally announce that we’re releasing a track together, “Children Of The Sun.”
What kind of process did you both take on and what do you think of the ultimate result? I know Pritam has worked with Marshmello as well before, so perhaps there’s an inclination he was towards electronic music?
We’ve been working on this project for a long time and feel that we’ve managed to create something that represents both of our cultures and soundscapes in a very seamless fashion. I’m super happy with how the track has turned out! I’m looking forward to sharing this with all my Indian Walkers and creating a cultural moment!
Are there plans to drop this song in your set on tour as well? How would you describe the track?
I’d like to surprise Indian Walkers and it’s best that some surprises stay concealed.
Is there any chance we’ll see Pritam up on stage with you at any of the tour shows in India?
I’d love to have him on stage and you’d have to just wait and watch
How has the prep for the India tour been so far? Any helpful advice you’ve received from friends and peers about being in India for a whole month?
It’s a constant process and I’m still prepping. I have a great team around me — both in India and globally — so I think it’s going to be an amazing experience. This isn’t my first time in India and India almost feels like home now. I’ve enjoyed my previous runs with Sunburn and I’ve explored the culture, music and cuisines and there’s a lot more exploration which I’m hoping to do on this trip.
I’m guessing touring this long also makes one miss home or feel homesick. How do you usually deal with that, if at all?
I try to be home as much as I can and stay in regular contact with everyone back home. My girlfriend also travels with me a lot, which helps a ton! It’s important to stay balanced given the profession I’m in and if I have to be honest it’s quite a challenge.
You’re also coming to India just after your birthday on September 24. Are you big on celebrating birthdays or do you prefer to keep it low-key? Some people turn reflective sometimes! Would you do that?
Birthdays are a great way to reflect on the past year and be grateful for everything. The most important thing is to remember to be thankful and appreciate the people and opportunities in your life.
What else do you have planned while in India, on your days off between shows?
We’re still working on the schedule, but I hope to squeeze in some time for sightseeing and catching up with some creative folks between shows.
What’s coming up for the rest of 2024 once this tour is done and dusted?
First and foremost, I’m releasing the rest of my album, Walkerworld. So, mark your calendars for November 11th! There’s a big announcement in the gaming space for my Indian gaming fans, you’ll hear about it soon.
