From starting out at 13 as a bathroom singer to being featured on Balconytv.com, Hanita is one of the few musicians who stand out in the herd. Listening to her play one of her self-composed tracks will leave you spell bound, to say the very least. This Business Studies student from Shaheed Sukhdev College of Business Studies is on a very high rising path to fame. I got to catch a glimpse of what she’s been up to and what’s in store for the millions of people who will undoubtedly, soon know about her talent and hard work.
Before we start, tell me little about yourself.
Hanita: I started singing at 13, and I was pathetic, but even back then I used to feel awesome (laughs). I did my schooling from Delhi Public School, Faridabad. I sang all through the later years of my school. Up until last year, I was a self-taught musician. I was of the belief that formal training kills the spontaneity of the relationship I have with my music. For me music is about self-expression. But after coming to college and meeting an amazing bunch of singers, I realized that formal training helps me channel my energy. I know what my music should sound. And training helps me do that.
Let’s talk about your journey into music. Where did it start?
Hanita: I don’t even remember! No, but that started when I was very young, around 6-7. I was always fascinated with singers. I used to think that they were superheroes. If one can sing, one can do anything. And that was the beginning of my journey. I wanted to be that. From then on, I’ve been living behind a mic.
You chose a business studies college, despite being sure of what you want to do. Why?
Hanita: Creativity is often seen as a different entity. A creative person can also be a million other things. But on a side note, a lot of times record labels interfere with their artists’ creativity. And studying business helps me understand the competitive landscape much better. I also plan to have my own independent label. So Business Studies sounds like an informed choice. Also, I genuinely like marketing and CBS has made me the person I am today.
You’re often touted as Adele of Delhi University. Who is your inspiration?
Hanita: (laughs) I like Adele but I don’t really follow her music. My first song was by Avril Lavigne. And people used to say I sounded like her. Then they called me the Cranberry Singer and then Adele. Now I’m finally my own singer. The people I’m really inspired by are Ben Howard, Grace Potter, Jack Savorreti and a host of other bands that are coming up here in Delhi.
What is the kind of music that appeals most to you?
Hanita: Folk music speaks to me the most. But I’m very open to everything. I have no qualms about getting out of my comfort zone.
Your genre is International Music, which is largely unrecognized in India. Plus there’s crazy competition in this field. Does that scare you?
Hanita: It is extremely competitive, which is scary. In a corporate setting, the milestones are laid out for you. You know where you’re going. In the music scene, it’s very confusing. In India, the good thing is the genre is very untapped. It’s up for grabs. It’s like being a big fish in a small pond.
You’ve achieved considerable milestones, even though there’s still a long way to go. What’s next?
Hanita: Like you said, I’ve just started. A lot’s yet to be accomplished. I’m working with a collective now. We’re competing at BalconyTV.com. So yes, I plan to keep doing my own thing and hopefully, light up a few faces with my music.
Listen to Hanita’s music here: https://soundcloud.com/hanitab
Raghav Chopra
Image couresty: Balconytv.com
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