Moanungsang, the winner of Naga Idol presently known as “Orpheus Hunt” in talks with Eastern Mirror
Eastern Mirror (EM): A little introduction about yourself as a ‘solo artist’ Moanungsang: Hi, moanungsng here... I rather liked to introduce myself as a music enthusiast because music for me is not just about being an artist but the music which surrounds me itself gives the feeling and reach beyond the realm of humankind.
EM: When was it that you realized you had a passion and talent in the world of music? Any idol or inspirations that made you walk with your talent?
Moa: Well as any Naga kid, the influence in music started in the Sunday school and church, it was all just casual singing until I decided to join Patkai Christian college and studied music. I belief everyone has a talent, you just need to give time to understand your inner will. It was not easy to take music as a study and career, there’s a lot of hardwork and sincerity to be reckon with. During our times music and sports was not a part of a career itinerary...... it was a mammoth task to prove ourself to the people living around that one can survive choosing music as the main thing in life. My parents were my inspiration, they never stopped my passion in music grow narrow,,, well I also owe my gratitude to my friend Lanu Akum Jamir (Cresendo) for pushing me through my journey in the music world. I didn’t much idolize or diligently followed an artist in particular but as an eighties guy,, grew up listening to glam rock..... Bon Jovi, Judast Priest, Yes, Eric Clapton, Bryan Adams, Deep Purple, White Snake... ahhh the list goes on...... they were all my mentors...
EM: I believe you were the winner of Naga Orpheus Hunt (formerly called Naga Idol)……What changes have you witnessed in ‘music industry’ of Nagaland since then?
Moa: Yes ... it was a journey to cherish.. the Naga Orpheus Hunt was a catalyst for many budding artist including me!!! Many singers needed a platform to explore their talents, that’s where this contest was conceptualist. It was very immature initially yet the challenge which the organiser brought forward has made immense changes in the music industry. I remember belting recordings sessions on Ahuja mics and ingeniously local made speakers.. ..humble beginning though... but today comparatively we have world class equipments and recording studios which is a boon for upcoming musicians. Music is having a positive effect not only on the youngsters but the entire Naga nation and the world as our generation is walking into a streamline where the world has become a global village. Music definitely is growing as an industry in Nagaland.
EM: How do you balance your busy working life and your personal life with music?
Moa: Work is worship ... being a musician is not easy, you don’t have much of a time for your families which I do feel guilty..., it involves a lot of travelling recording sessions..my entire life as of now surrounds in music.
humanity, relationship. Love, nature, God.. there are endless inspiration, depends on what situation you are in when you start to pen down. The imagination that captures on what you are thinking at the moment is what transpires into music.
Right now my aim is to put my best effort for the vocal school, because this was a long anticipated vision. My goals now are to give back to the people, where I can at least give them what I have learned from years of my tryst and experiences in music.
ahhh... the first gig with my band XTC back in 2003.. it was a moment to remember cause I remember being the first band in Nagaland to do a cover of Dream Theater (surrounded) ..hahhaa that was huge..... the icing on the cake was when I won the first Naga Orpheus Hunt in 2006.
I have performed in almost all parts of the country but competitions ..No.. yes I was awarded the North East SBI Young Achievers award in 2007 and Commendation award for contribution in music by Government of Nagaland in commemoration of Nagaland Fifty Years statehood.
Well, I am launching a vocal grooming school this month. Its called the Soloist Workstation, the idea is a holistic approach not only to singing but it will comprise of Diction and phonetics, styling, theory, choreography. The vision is to give a complete package where an individual will walk out as a complete performer. Yes and look out for my singles .. releasing soon. See you guys. God bless...
