Premiere: Harini Iyer Invokes ‘Joy’ with Her Airy, Sublime Vocals on New Song
The Chennai singer-composer draws from folk and alternative realms and teams up with producer Aleif Hamdan and percussionist Julian Schoming
Chennai artist Harini Iyer. Photo: Ishani Sarkar
Singer-composer Harini Iyer opens up about her journey to finding happiness and perspective in the midst of solitude on her latest single “Joy.” Slated to release on November 18th, you can hear the song exclusively below.
Iyer, who has previously collaborated with the likes of Carnatic jazz-fusion band Jatayu – says that she wrote “Joy” in 2022 when she was living alone for the first time. “The song, a folksy alternative piece, became my lifeline amid life’s chaos. It’s a celebration of life’s simplicity, urging us to find solace in everyday moments,” she adds in a statement.
Produced by Aleif Hamdan and featuring percussionist Julian Schoming, Iyer’s vocal prowess comes forward in different ways on “Joy.” Channeling soul and global music influences plus her Carnatic vocal roots, the song layers vocals and flows in a reverie-like poetic manner. It’s no surprise to hear Iyer say that experiences like dancing at home, strolling in the forest and being at the beach inspired “Joy.” She adds, “It encapsulates the power of sensory delights, from incense to singing bowls, as tools for grounding.”
On a larger level, Iyer articulates that her story of “Joy” isn’t in a vacuum. “It’s a shared human experience. It acknowledges the cyclical nature of emotions and offers solace to anyone feeling overwhelmed.” The project also included photography and visual work from videographer Ishani Sarkar.
After writing the melody and lyrics to “Joy,” she sent it across to Hamdan, whom she says “communicates really well and understands what a song needs; nothing more and nothing less.” Iyer adds, “I remember telling him that I felt a Lianne La Havas kind of vibe and feel would be perfect for this song and I can’t believe that his playing reflected that precisely and so beautifully. I met Julian Schoming at Berklee College of Music where we sang for the same choir, The Pletenitsa Choir. I’ve always found Julian’s dexterity with creating and collecting eclectic sounds fascinating so I naturally had to have him on board for ‘Joy’ and his contribution elevated the whole experience.”
Following “Joy,” the artist will find herself “Gilding Emotions,” which is the title of her next single that brings in Hamdan, producer Tarun Balani and “a surprise rap artist.” Iyer adds, “This song is so different from Joy and I can’t wait for you all to listen to the song and watch the video.”
Listen to “Joy” below. Pre-save the song here.
