Taking music to new heights
21 Feb 2016 8:52 PM GMT
Music knows no barriers - the adage holds true for singing sensation Monica Dogra who has set a benchmark in the music community, not only in America but in India by proving her versatility to music lovers of both the countries.
She recently launched her album ‘Spit’ in collaboration with Universal Music in the national Capital and that’s when Millennium post caught up with her for a candid conversation about her journey, her music and acting career and much more.
From a singer to an actor to a designer, how has the journey been so far?Â
The journey has been incredible!  Of course, it was full of ups and downs, but that is life. I feel I have had a strong hand in carving out where the independent music scene is today in India.  That feels good… I also feel very lucky to have received such wonderful support from my fans and film, TV and fashion community. Without them, I would be nowhere today.
You recently were a judge on a one-of-its-kind singing reality show ‘The Stage’, where young singers from across the country were roped in, in order to highlight the musical talent that India has. How was the experience of judging and being a part of this new concept?Â
I loved being on the show because it gave me so much. Every day on the sets of ‘The Stage’ was like a portal into this pure world where nothing mattered but music. I got along so well with my fellow judges, hit it off with many of the contestants from season 1. I think ‘The Stage’ season 1 did great things for English language music. I’m really looking forward to the future with the show. Â
You recently launched your debut album ‘Spit’ this month. Tell us something about it. What’s next on the solo front?
The album is a collection of stories in songs - different genres, loads of poetry - and as usual, me sort of telling all my secrets and documenting my life through music.  It’s my most intimate output of art till date.  I’m very proud of it.  And as far as what’s next?  More, of course!!! (winks)
What’s your take on your collaboration, for your album, with one of the leading music corporations- Universal Music Group, which one of your fellow judges-Devraj Sanyal, on ‘The Stage’, is also associated with?Â
It’s great to be working with Universal. Devraj is a great guy. More than working with them on my album, ‘Spit’, I’m looking forward to seeing ways in which such a large conglomerate can help to develop my future works.  I think real magic can happen then.
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Are there any new projects that Shaa’ir + Func is planning to work on in the near future?
We have a gig at the end of this month where we would be performing at Ballard Estate Festival in Mumbai. You see, S+F writes very fast. We haven’t been gigging too much this year, because Randolph (guitarist Randolph Correia) and I have been going through a transitional phase of exploring the other forms of art that we are passionate about – Randolph with his painting and me with my acting and solo album.  It’s important to take space, so that you don’t suffocate in a relationship.  S+F is forever. That means time apart at times, so that we come together- stronger and better than ever.
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