DIMAPUR — In Nagaland, a state with deep musical roots, World Music Day is marked by concerts with musicians hitting the stage for sheer love of music.
But beyond the celebratory performances, a deep conversation about the future of music in Nagaland unfolded when Eastern Mirror spoke to musicians and artistes from the state on the eve of World Music Day, on June 21.
A prominent face in the Naga music scene, rapper and songwriter Moko Koza raised a crucial point: “Art is not for free.”
He opined that while concerts on auspicious occasion like World Music Day are great, the focus should be more on celebrating the musicians and not simply on the event itself. He said that musicians, songwriters, producers, and all those who contribute to the music deserve to be acknowledged, as many of them faced significant challenges to reach their current position.
Art comes at a cost, he said, stressing on the need for event organisers to promote the idea that music, too, has a value and support artistes financially.
“There should be some sort of donations from the public during the event to help out a musician,” he added.
On the role of social media in bringing musicians into the spotlight, he said that the world and music are constantly progressing. He said that learning the right tools and techniques to promote one’s work on the platform is a must.
He also opined that the state’s music industry is transforming with new artistes bringing in new ideas and pushing themselves through their art.
Bikash Lauriyambam Singh, the brain behind “Tenacious”, an independent record label, observed that the future of music in Nagaland appears to be a blend of traditional folk and modern fusion genres, with young artistes leveraging social media to reach a wider audience.
“With increased online presence, many young artistes are actively using social media platforms to share their music, engage with their audience and build a fan base,” he observed, adding that things are changing for the better, as young musicians experiment with different genres and create unique sounds.
While asserting that the industry is growing, with more recording studios, music production houses, and event management companies coming up, he said musicians are also receiving more recognition and support today.
He also suggested initiatives like workshops for music enthusiasts, open-mic nights for lesser-known artists, talent contests, tributes to influential musicians, etc. as ways to celebrate and foster a community that appreciates the power of music.
Musician and composer Vilavor Loucü acknowledged the vital role of social media in connecting artistes with a larger audience but observed that some artistes prioritise a “celebrity mentality” and lose sight of connecting with their fans.
Stating that many local artistes have failed to gain global attention because of their “attitude”, he stressed the need to work hard, stay humble and be willing to connect to their fans through music.
Aseno Metha, known as ‘Momo Girl’, expressed optimism about the music industry in the state, citing opportunities provided to female musicians through initiatives like the Task Force for Music and Arts (TaFMA), while crediting the music industry for her confidence, enhancing her social skills, and most importantly, instilling a strong sense of discipline.
She also noted that young musicians are bypassing the traditional channels and connecting with audiences across the globe.
Imli Lee, also known as Dejavu, felt that “the ones who are more socially active are the ones getting more opportunities and able to expand their musical career, not just within the state but even elsewhere”.
Besides shows in Nagaland, there are many opportunities outside the state, like at music festivals, pubs, cultural exchanges, etc., he said while stressing the need to be ready to perform whenever opportunities arise.
Another artiste, LC Sekhose felt that while Nagas are inherently adaptable and excel at recreating masterpieces, focusing on originality is essential in order to truly flourish.
He added that Nagas should embrace their unique creativity as, “Original works will help us connect with a global audience.”
Amen Imsong, a singer and performer based in Delhi, pointed out the negativity on social media, with Nagas often quick to criticise and provide negative feedback.
However, “if you really have it in you and set up a positive mind, the right people will just love you for your true talent and keep supporting your hard work”, she said.
Pianist and music teacher, Vikhietuonuo Rutsa observed that the music industry in the state is “definitely escalating” and the future looks promising as more initiatives are being taken up to nurture and promote local musicians.
“With the support of TaFMA, the only dedicated music department in India located in our state, artistes have a robust support system. This has been instrumental in fostering talent and providing opportunities,” she noted.
As a music educator, she emphasised the importance of music education programmes for underprivileged children and those in remote areas.
Celebrating music
Sharing about World Music Day celebration in the state, prominent artistes said that the occasion brings professional and amateur musicians together, as they perform to express their gratitude and love for music.
Meanwhile, some felt that the occasion should be more inclusive, where emerging talents and veterans, artistes from different genres and languages get equal platform.
For Imli Lee, music is the essence of life, and World Music Day is a celebration of sharing that power with others.
Meanwhile, Vikhietuonuo Rutsa opined that one can celebrate World Music Day by purchasing music albums from local stores or online platforms, saying that such efforts ensure musicians receive the support they need, to continue creating and sharing their music with the world.
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