This rewind episode features my conversation with Indian classical and crossover vocalist Roopa Mahadevan. We recorded it in February 2021, and it first dropped the following July. It’s the most-downloaded episode of the Unstarving Musician podcast. Roopa’s fan base probably helped, but it was also a great conversation.
When we spoke, Roopa had temporarily moved from New York City to San Jose, where she grew up. Her first album, Roopa In Six Yards: A Carnatic Playlist, had been out a little over a year. We talked about where she wanted to take her crossover group Roopa In Flux and the challenges her Carnatic vocal training presented. She also turned the tables and asked me what I get out of music when I can’t understand the words. We also chatted about our mutual acquaintance, Bollywood blues artist Aki Kumar, who introduced me to Roopa.
If you’ve listened to recent episodes, you’ll notice they’re more focused on actionable frameworks than this one. I’d love to hear what you think about the difference. You’ll find all my contact info at unstarvingmusician.com.
Find out what Roopa is up to next at RoopaMahadevan.com.
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Mentioned in this Episode
Related Episodes
Aki Kumar Signs With Sony Music India (Ep 118)
Bollywood Blues Man Aki Kumar on Gratitude, Humility, and Band Dynamics (Ep 113)
Aki Kumar on Chicago Blues, Bollywood Blues, Harmonica, and Performing (Ep 23)
Unlocking The Voice Within with Kelly Atkins (Ep 145)
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