Navi Singh is a New York City-based Indian-American singer-songwriter, composer and multi-instrumentalist. In this interview he talks about his upcoming music album Runaway Sunshine, his music philosophy, and what life as an artist in NYC is like.
Music is your passion. How did it all start?
I grew up in a family that always had music playing in the house. My parents listened to artists like Miles Davis, Eric Clapton, but mostly Hindi film songs. I knew that there was something that connected me to the different styles of music, and that there were similarities within these styles, even though they sounded very different. This led me on a quest to find how elements of music could be changed to create a completely different sound. Then I started playing the piano, often playing back melodies that I would hear around the house.
The Runaway Sunshine project explained:
You’re working on Runaway Sunshine, your first music album…
I’ve put together some demos and such in the past, but you’re right that this is my first major project. It’s a pop/rock/soul album that is laid-back yet danceable with lighthearted lyrics, rich melodies and intricate rhythmic patterns. The songs have been described as having a “beach party sound” that is cheerful, carefree, and upbeat.
Where does the inspiration for this album come from?
The album explores situations we all experience: dealing with change, moving to a new location, questioning reality and our existence, and finding peace in a chaotic world. I wanted to write material that anyone can relate to, not just songs that are specific to my own life and experiences.
Whom are you working with on the Runaway Sunshine album?
I’ve got some amazingly talented music professionals working on the album. Producers/engineers Daniel Mendez and Paul Q. Kolderie have been a huge inspiration to me. They’re both incredible at what they do, and I’m lucky to have them on board with this project. I also feel lucky to have such an amazing lineup of session musicians: Claudia Chopek on violin, Brad Allen Williams on electric guitar and keyboards, Nolan Thies on electric bass, and Josh Dion on drums and percussion.
What does the name of album stand for?
The title honestly popped into my head as a lyric when I was writing a song of mine called “Moment in the Sun.” Runaway Sunshine reflects the fleeting emotions that we experience every day and also taking for granted what is gone too soon— things that we expected to be around forever.
How would you describe your music philosophy and style?
I think each song has a mood or a feeling that should be perfectly captured through the melody, lyrics, chords, production, and mixing. If isolating the mood of the song, and using it as one’s muse, I feel that no one can take a wrong step when songwriting.
Who influenced you the most in your music career?
If I had to pick a single artist, I would have to say Michael Jackson. He changed the game forever. No one sounded like he did. No one danced like he did. He really had all the tools necessary to truly captivate an audience. Going to see Michael Jackson was an experience. I was too young to see him live in concert, but I remember watching the “Black or White” premiere on Fox primetime featuring Bart Simpson and Macaulay Culkin, and it changed my life forever.
How much is New York City part of you as an artist?
New York has always been a huge part of me. The city influences the way I dress, the way I talk, the sound and energy that I go for on stage, the style of my writing, my sense of humor— all very New York. I think it has a lot to do with the variety of backgrounds seen in New Yorkers. Everything and everyone that I come across, in some way, becomes a part of me.
What non-music related things do you do in NYC?
I love skateboarding— it really is my preferred mode of transportation. I also enjoy yoga, dancing, hanging out on the beach (yes, New York City has beaches), and getting together with my friends and making each other laugh.
Do you have any planned appearances or gigs for the near future?
I’m working on putting together a few album release parties around the time of the Runaway Sunshine release, which won’t be until later this year. I do have one New York show on August 17 at this really trendy and intimate spot called Hill & Dale in the Lower East Side of Manhattan. For more updates, follow my website.
With the advent of so many ways to promote and sell your product, do you think it’s possible for Indy musicians to make a name of themselves even if they don’t have a big record company behind them?
Yeah, totally. Macklemore had tremendous success with his self-released album a couple years back. He did it all with no label support, which was pretty amazing to see. Other artists have moderate success with self-released albums, but he proved it can be done on a much larger scale.
What are some of the promotional tools a musician can use to find listeners?
There are tons of streaming services online, and also the usual suspects in social media— Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Reverb Nation. They are all great tools, but nothing beats good ol’ word of mouth, and getting out there and playing shows.
