Washington D.C : Renowned Indian singer-songwriter and producer Shankar Mahadevan, a Padma Shri awardee since 2001, recently mesmerized global music enthusiasts with a stellar performance at the distinguished NPR music studios in the United States. Celebrated for his multifaceted contributions as an Indian playback singer, music composer, and a pivotal member of the Shankar–Ehsaan–Loy trio in Bollywood, Mahadevan showcased his musical prowess on the international stage.
This noteworthy collaboration unfolded within the realm of NPR Music, the music division of the esteemed National Public Radio (NPR), recognized for its commitment to curating and showcasing diverse musical genres, artists, and events, providing a platform for the exploration and appreciation of music across various styles.
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Apart from Mahadevan performance in last month, the talented singer, Sid Sriram, known for his soulful voice and versatile musical style, has made waves in the global music scene with his captivating performances and unique blend of genres at a separate Tiny Desk performance in May this year.
The global stage also witnessed the collaboration of Mahadevan with tabla virtuoso Zakir Hussain, violinist expert Ganesh Rajagopalan, and jazz guitarist John McLaughlin, forming the Indian jazz fusion band, Shakti. With roots dating back to 1973, Shakti, founded by McLaughlin and traditional Indian virtuosos, has played a pivotal role in bridging Western and Indian musical traditions.
The Tiny Desk performance was a testament to the ensemble’s mastery, opening with the enchanting “Shrini’s Dream,” where melodic and rhythmic instruments seamlessly harmonized. Each musician, including Mahadevan, Rajagopalan, McLaughlin, and Sriram, took turns invoking the muse for inspiration. The drummer’s dream unfolded with Zakir Hussain’s unparalleled tabla prowess, showcasing mastery within and beyond tradition.
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Shakti’s rich musical tapestry, rooted in intricate traditional rhythms, was on full display throughout the performance. Tracks like “Lotus Feet” paid homage to the band’s history, drawing from the hypnotic exploration of time and melody reminiscent of McLaughlin’s Mahavishnu Orchestra. The set reached a dynamic conclusion with “Bending the Rules,” skillfully blending Indian traditions with the jazz tradition of musicians exchanging vibrant musical dialogues.
The historic moment, marking 50 years since Shakti’s inception, underscored the enduring impact of the band and its ability to transcend cultural and musical boundaries. The accomplished ensemble featured John McLaughlin on guitar, Zakir Hussain on tabla, Selvaganesh Vinayakaram on kanjira and ghatam, Shankar Mahadevan on vocals, Ganesh Rajagopalan on violin, and Sid Sriram contributing his distinctive style. This performance stands as a testament to the timeless fusion of musical cultures orchestrated by these virtuoso musicians, marking an unforgettable chapter in the global music landscape.