In this interview spotlight, I chat with Vandita Narayan about the latest music, technology, adapting during a pandemic and more.

Full Q&A along with links and music below.

Where are you from and how do You describe your style of music?

I am from Bangalore. I would say that my style of music is Alternative Pop, Indie. I like to experiment with various styles!

How did you get here? As in, what inspired or motivated you to take on this journey through music and the music biz?

Honestly, I always dreamt of being a musician. (or a rockstar, to be specific) When I received love and support among all the difficulties from the ones around me, I figured it made sense to pursue this journey. I started with open mics, 1 min cover videos on Instagram, which led to paid shows at music bars and songwriting! After 2 years into this, I got an opportunity to work on “The Period Song” and the promotional movie song “Bhinna Sharapanjara” for the Kannada movie “Bhinna.” After gaining confidence, I started releasing original music and it’s been going well! My inspirations are Lana Del Rey, Halsey, Doja Cat, Rihanna, Lady Gaga, The Weeknd, and so on. With the support and encouragement from my family and close ones, I’ve had a good push in this journey.

How does your latest project compare/contrast with your previous release(s)? Were you setting out to accomplish anything specific, follow a specific theme, or explore different styles of creation? What is it about?

My latest song – Forbidden Kiss takes a melancholic turn from my previous releases. I just felt it was the right mood to set and give a 3 am vibe to my listeners. It was a mix of Lo-Fi, Alternative Pop with an ambient setting. Whoisavi produced this work of art and it was mixed and mastered by Faizan.

The light drums upheave the somber lyrics and intertwine perfectly with the melodic streaks of melancholia. The plot of the track in a “nutshell” revolves around the person holding onto her feelings despite her lover has left her. The message is in the frostbitten lyric such as “ A bite and a twist, a forbidden kiss and now I can’t help myself but reminisce” which is indicative of how her partner wooed her with their charm and actions into temporary bliss, only to abscond and leave her to deal with the fragments of their momentary memories. Another set of lyrics that highlights this is “I didn’t need it all until I fell into your essence”, referring to how she was unable to predict the degree of intensity borne from their temporary encounter, and how their “essence” still hovers over her from time to time.

Name the biggest challenge you faced as a creative during these unprecedented? How did you adapt? How have you kept the creative fires burning during all this?

Well, safety is a concern when you’re a female artist. Sometimes, there is a bit of insecurity and hate projected by others. The only way I go about it is by not letting it dull my spark and doing whatever I want. 

What was the last song you listened to?

Well, I’d say it was “The Weeknd – Take my breath” or all his songs at one go, hahah

Which do you prefer? Vinyl? 8-tracks? Cassettes? CDs? MP3s? Streaming platforms?

Well, Vinyl, Cassettes, CDs never go out of style. Streaming platforms have taken over and I’ve adapted to it.

Where is the best place to connect with you and follow your journey?

My Instagram – @vanditanarayan 

I really appreciate Your time. Anything else before we sign off? 

I’d say, by the end of the day, if you’re happy and content with what you do, that’s all that matters.