Is Arijit Singh's Decision to Step Away from Playback a Disruptive Move?
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Mumbai, Jan 28 (NationPress) The music industry is currently reeling after Arijit Singh revealed his decision to retire from playback singing.
In response, singer and composer Sona Mohapatra described Arijit's choice as brave, generous, and disruptive in a positive manner.
She shared an extensive message on her Instagram, expressing, "To @arijitsingh & #India with #Love, my journey of creating music year after year has been incredibly fulfilling and unmatched. It is both exhausting yet exhilarating (sic)."
Her message continued, "Moving away from playback singing feels less like an exit and more like a journey into freedom, creativity, and new opportunities."
Sona emphasized that while she may not fully understand Arijit’s reasons, she believes this move will grant him the artistic freedom that is essential to his craft.
"I'm not speculating on the motivations. I trust that they are highly personal and completely valid. What truly matters is the decision itself. None of his predecessors envisioned this route: stepping back to make space. For himself initially, to explore, create, and perform his own music on his own terms," she elaborated.
She noted that this choice will also pave the way for new talents, who have been sidelined due to the industry's reliance on 'zero-risk formulas'.
Sona further elaborated, "Producers often over-rely on one artist, neglecting demo singers and even established artists, dangling the prospect of 'opportunity' despite years of experience. They exhaust themselves trying out multiple voices before finally recording with Arijit, keeping this exploitative cycle going because it’s more convenient."
She conveyed her anticipation for the type of artist Arijit is likely to become with the influx of original music on the horizon.