Raghu Dixit: ‘Remember, It’s a Marathon and Not a Sprint’

Raghu Dixit photographed at his studio. Photo: Nirmit Kaushik

Raghu Dixit is not one to mince words. As much as the folk-rock singer-songwriter supports the music scene, he also maintains that there are no short cuts to success when it comes to making it big as an indie artist. In this exclusive chat with ROLLING STONE India, Dixit, who is one of the judges at the countrywide band hunt Sennheiser Top 50, talks about the need for platforms to nurture talent and his favorite bands on the circuit.

What are your thoughts on your association with Sennheiser Top 50 – how did it come about and how does it feel to be judging it?
I find the concept very exciting, unique and interesting! It’s great to see how a brand is putting efforts into discovering hidden talent across the country and its definitely amazing to be a part of it.  I believe that India has plethora of talent that needs to be nurtured and Sennheiser Top 50 is the right platform for it. I am looking forward to interacting with the bands and musicians and judging it will be a fruitful experience.

How important is the role of nationwide competitions like these – do you think that it is extremely difficult for indie bands in India to succeed without a big break such as winning a contest like this one?
I have come across bands that have a lot of potential but do not have the right kind of platform to showcase it and flourish. Thus platforms like Sennheiser Top 50 become an opportunity one shouldn’t miss. It gives the bands a chance to carve a place for themselves in the competitive and growing music industry. Creative and original music is most definitely required to making it big but it’s equally important to grab the right eye balls to succeed and Sennheiser Top 50 is giving you that chance.

Who are you current favourites from the many indie bands that have risen in the past couple of years?
In the recent past, I have loved the music that Parvaaz has put out and also an up-and-coming Bangalore based singer-songwriter called Mahesh Raghunandan. I think there is a lot of new music coming out of the independent scene in India and I have resolved to check out bunch of new bands and artists when I can.

Any message/tips to young acts that want to make it big?
Believe in your music and passion, and bring out the best you have got! Remember, it’s a marathon and not a sprint, so be ready to put in the work and be in it for the long haul. Right now is an awesome time to be a musician in India!

For more details and to register your band and submit your music, click here.