Dive into this dynamic roundup featuring a range of Indian music that will take you on a sonic journey! From the playful defiance of “Battak” to the introspective ballad “Kyun,” this collection offers something for every mood. This playlist is your gateway to the diverse and ever-evolving soundscape of Indian independent music!
1. Battak- Flyboy S, Raga, Wamp
‘Battak’ by Flyboy S, Raga, and Wamp is a playful yet fierce anthem taking the “don’t mess with us” narrative. With a fiery fusion of hard-hitting beats, smooth lyricism, and a nostalgic nod to 80’s Bollywood swagger, the track gives life to the idea of making a fool out of those who dare to stand in their way.
2. Running- Aksomaniac, Shreya, Fatboi Raccoon
‘Running’ by Malayalam artist Aksomaniac captures the journey of stepping out of the familiar confines of your childhood home and discovering your own space in the world – a place where you truly feel like you belong. It’s a heartfelt farewell to the possessions and people that once defined your past, embracing the freedom and new beginnings that come with finding your own path.
3. Kyun- Karan Verma
Chandigarh-based Karan Verma’s latest single ‘Kyun’ is a deeply emotional ballad that delves into the intimate connections and shared vulnerabilities that surface once the initial passion subsides. The song weaves together gentle accordion swells, a smoot swinging drum groove, haunting guitar tremolos, and mystical chord progressions.
4. Aise Na Karo- Samad Khan, Bharath
Samad Khan and Bharath’s latest single ‘Aise Na Karo’ is a catchy heartbreak pop song that stands out with its powerful lyrics, synchronized synths, and rhythmic beats that blend seamlessly. With the post-chorus echoing the title, it makes the song memorable and leaving listeners nodding along and humming the hook.
5. Dune- Traxler
Traxler’s ‘Dune’ aims to embody the essence of the progressive metal genre while trying to create a style that is original to them and holds great significance. Dune delves even deeper into the dark recesses of the human experience. It details the ordeal of being trapped between what is and what ought to be—the vision of life. Dune expresses the nightmares of living with a mask, smiling on the surface while pain and despair fester beneath. It magnifies the agony of a soul that has endured suffering, hidden behind a façade of happiness.
6. Clout Chase- Smoke
New Delhi-based artist Smoke’s ‘Clout Chase’ is a track that delves deep into the trials of making a name in the music industry. The artist sheds light on his personal journey while underscoring the difficulties of staying authentic while navigating a landscape often dominated by the hustle of instant fame.
7. Fursat – Ramil Ganjoo
‘Fursat’ by Mumbai-based Ramil Ganjoo is an intimate journey on the search for a place to call home. Against the fast-paced backdrop of Mumbai, this track offers a reflective ode to the moments of stillness we yearn for amidst the chaos of life in the city.
8. E.ERA – Manan Gupta
‘E.Era’ by Manan Gupta is an upbeat track with complex yet captivating guitar work. It talks about being proactive in keeping up with the daily events of the world while making a constant effort to brainstorm and implement new ideas for the further betterment of society. The song sheds light on how all of us have the power to do it and can start by doing it to ourselves and then to the people around us.
9. Mazhaikkaalam -Rishi K
Coimbatore-based Rishi K’s ‘Mazhaikkaalam’ is a Tamil experimental fusion track that intertwines 3 different genres of music into one song. An amalgamation of Minimalist lofi, electronic R&B, and Indie Rock, the song is set in the distant future, a cyber futuristic world when the world has forgotten what rain feels like.
10. Apsara – Shreya Karmakar
Shreya Karmakar’s debut single ‘Apsara’ is a modern indie track that captures the emotions of a girl eagerly waiting for a proposal from her best friend, who is also, her secret love. The track is produced by Pranshu Jha and is brought to life by WhiteWine Studios.
11. Barkha – Prateeksha Srivastava
Mumbai-based Prateeksha Srivastava’s ‘Barkha’ is a pop fusion track portraying a metaphorical comparison of the arrival of rains with the arrival of a beloved. Written and sung by the artist, Suyash and Danny have co-written and produced the track.
12. Aag – Vasu Raina
Vasu Raina’s ‘Aag’ illustrates the devastation that can follow a love that has gone awry. The imagery of fire and ashes is a powerful metaphor for how intense and consuming emotions can be and how they leave behind remnants of what once was. The collocation of undying love with the reality of the world now filled with smoke and ruins adds a layer of depth to the song, reflecting the complexity of moving on from such an experience.
13. Toote Khwab – Manya Narang
Manya Narang’s ‘Toote Khwab’ is a deeply moving song that captures the essence of lost dreams and the profound ache of missing someone. The soundscape, elevated by the delicate interplay of tabla and bass, perfectly complements Manya’s enchanting vocals.
14. My Sweet Honey – Cray Production, Fenga, Diane
Cray Production’s “My Sweet Honey,” a track written by Fenga immerses listeners in a psychedelic journey, featuring the soulful vocals of Diane. The song is an experience of rap over funk instrumental with pop songwriting. The track’s laid-back energy creates the perfect backdrop for those moments when you just want to let go—whether you’re at a festival, a late-night rave, or simply hanging with friends. FENGa and Diane’s collaboration gives soul to the song.
15. Baby – Carlos Postros
Shillong-based Carlos Postros’ ‘Baby’ introduces listeners to the world of Diaryofaloser, his upcoming EP capturing the raw emotions of longing, heartbreak, and self-reflection that permeate the entire EP. With its infectious melody and relatable lyrics, “Baby” sets the tone for a body of work that is both deeply personal and universally resonant.
