Shankar Mahadevan, Javed Akhtar Launch India’s First Artist Owned Platform

MUMBAI (ANI)- In a landmark moment for the Indian music industry, over 30 celebrated musicians gathered at the Jio World Studio Theatre here to launch Goongoonalo—India’s first artist-owned digital music platform. The initiative promises creators complete control over their content and a direct connection with their audience.

Conceived by legendary lyricist Javed Akhtar, music maestro Shankar Mahadevan, and tech innovator Sridhar Ranganathan, and led by CEO Sherley Singh, Goongoonalo aims to bridge the longstanding gap between creativity and commerce. The platform enables musicians to publish original works, rare recordings, and unreleased gems, while also engaging fans through workshops, live sessions, and exclusive behind-the-scenes content—with full ownership and revenue transparency.

“Every artist has a dream—Goongoonalo is where we chase it,” said Shankar Mahadevan, calling the project a personal passion. “Artists aren’t businessmen, and this is the first time we’ve found a way to bring both worlds together on our own terms.”

Joining him on stage were industry stalwarts like Sonu Nigam, Sameer Anjaan, Hariharan, and Prasoon Joshi. The latter, who also chairs the CBFC, said, “Artists often have a canvas, but not the sky. This platform finally lets their hearts speak freely—beyond characters and commercial constraints.”

Composer Raju Singh echoed the sentiment: “When we work for others, we follow their vision. Goongoonalo lets us finally realise our own.”

Singer Shaan shared how the platform gives voice to long-nurtured but unreleased compositions. “There are songs by my father that have lived in my heart for 40 years. This is the only space I feel worthy of sharing them,” he said, lauding the platform’s emphasis on quality and creative freedom.

CEO Sherley Singh remarked that the event felt more like a celebration than a launch—reflecting the spirit at the heart of Goongoonalo.

Javed Akhtar, who has long championed artists’ rights, called the day “historic,” saying, “For once, artists decide what reaches the audience.”

Goongoonalo empowers creators to release music, poetry, and stories independently, while fans gain access to exclusive content such as demos, drafts, and interactive experiences—from virtual jam sessions to lyric-writing workshops. The platform’s Fanverse feature allows users to co-create, design merchandise, and support projects via crowdfunding.

Artists and fans can join the movement by registering at www.goongoonalo.com.