Salim Merchant: Digital Shift Has Empowered Independent Musicians

MUMBAI – Composer Salim Merchant says the rise of independent music has made it far easier for artists to release their work, something that was much harder in the past.

“Independent music has already changed,” he said. “There used to be mostly film music, of course, along with ghazals and classical music. But earlier, music was primarily made for films. Now, if you look closely, more independent music is being made than film music—and this had to happen. It has become extremely easy for a musician, singer, or composer to create and release a song. That wasn’t the case earlier. Now, all music is digital-based, so it’s easier for creators. There’s no restriction, no impediment. You have the freedom to do what you want.”

Merchant added that independent music is only set to grow, reaching wider audiences and new creative heights.

“The expression of the art form has gone really high because of independent music, and I believe it will grow even further. It will reach new heights and be available to more people, and this is just the beginning,” he said.

Reflecting on recent years, the composer noted that the COVID-19 pandemic also created a unique opportunity for independent music to flourish.

“This is just the beginning,” he concluded. (IANS)