Coldplay’s Return: A New Era for Indian Music
The anticipation is palpable as Coldplay prepares to perform in Ahmedabad, India, for the first time in nearly a decade. Fans from over 500 cities across the country are expected to flock to the city for this monumental event. This concert marks a significant shift in the music landscape of India, where global artists have often overlooked the vast and passionate fan base. With Coldplay’s return, along with other major artists like Ed Sheeran and Dua Lipa, it seems that the tides are turning in favor of live music in India.
The Growing Demand for Live Music in India
The demand for live music in India is on the rise. Ticketing platform BookMyShow reported an impressive 18% growth in ticket sales for live events in 2024. This surge in interest is not limited to Coldplay; Ed Sheeran is set to embark on his largest tour of India, while Shawn Mendes and Louis Tomlinson will perform at the upcoming Lollapalooza festival in March.
Marketing expert Dr. Sourindra Banerjee from Leeds University Business School highlights the significance of India’s youthful population. With 1.4 billion people, a large segment of which is young, India presents a lucrative market for international artists. “If I were in the music business, I would target India to reap the benefits of this demographic,” Dr. Banerjee stated.
The Indian music industry, valued at 19 billion rupees (£178 million) in 2021, is projected to grow to 37 billion rupees (£346 million) by 2026, according to Statista. This growth is fueled by the increasing popularity of Western music genres and the rise of K-pop in the country. As global music labels recognize the potential of the Indian market, more artists are likely to consider India as a viable stop on their tours.
Opportunities for Local Artists
The influx of international artists is not just beneficial for fans; it also opens doors for local Indian musicians. Many aspiring artists see the presence of global stars as an opportunity to gain visibility and collaborate. Anoushka Maskey, a pop and folk singer, expressed her excitement about the changing landscape. “To have that experience in our own country, it’s really cool to see that it’s happening more and more,” she told BBC Newsbeat.
Artists like Anumita Nadesan believe that collaborating with international stars can significantly elevate their careers. “It puts you on the map,” she said, emphasizing the importance of exposure to larger audiences. Frizzell D’Souza, another emerging artist, noted that seeing successful international acts can inspire local talent. “It’s reassuring to know that someone like Ed Sheeran, who started from humble beginnings, can achieve global fame,” she remarked.
However, there are concerns that the focus on big-name artists might overshadow local talent. While the presence of international stars can elevate the music scene, it also poses challenges for smaller acts to gain attention. Nonetheless, many artists view this as a chance to raise their standards and improve their craft.
Improving Infrastructure for Music Events
Despite the growing interest in live music, there are significant challenges that India must address to attract top-tier international artists. Music journalist Peony Hirwani points out that infrastructure improvements are crucial. Many fans have voiced concerns about the lack of suitable venues for concerts. Events are often held in sports stadiums, which are not always available year-round due to cricket season.
Hirwani cites G-Eazy’s 2024 tour, which featured only Indian support artists, as a positive example of how local talent can be showcased. However, she emphasizes the need for more venues capable of hosting large-scale events. “We need bigger venues and a better system in place for music,” she stated.
The Lollapalooza Festival, held at a horse racing track in Mumbai, is currently the only venue large enough to accommodate such events safely. As the demand for live music continues to grow, it is essential for stakeholders to engage in discussions about improving infrastructure. This will not only enhance the experience for fans but also attract more international artists to perform in India.
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