Please introduce myself.
I’m Rimi Basu, born and raised in the US to Indian-American immigrant parents, who moved here 40 years back. I learned Indian music, dance, and language from a young age in the US and became so attracted to it that I decided to go to India alone and study Indian music full-time in India. I lived in India for about 4 years working on my music projects and performing full time.
So you were a medical student before becoming a musician. What made you choose the music industry? Some would say you are mad?!?
I think it’s mad to spend your life doing something that you’re not passionate about – that’s what medical school was for me. I joined med school because of the pressure I felt from my family/society to choose a traditional, “secure” career. Once I realized I was miserable, I withdrew and decided to take a chance on myself as a musician and performer.
What was your family’s and friend’s reaction to your drastic move?
My family was needless to say, in a state of shock. It took a long time and a great amount of convincing, as well a promise that I would complete some sort of higher degree (I ended up doing an MBA, which was more aligned with my career path)
How would you describe your sound to potential fans?
I’ve been told I sound somewhere in between the classical high-pitched Indian singer and the lower, sultry Western pop voice of say, Mariah Carey. Like my voice, my music also combines Indian classical elements with Western pop.
You took the leap and re-released two EPs this year (The Crossover in June and The Unveiling in March). What’s the public’s reception on your projects so far?
I have gotten a great response especially since moving to the West Coast and launching my albums in San Francisco and Los Angeles. Although the music is different, ive been really pleased and grateful for people’s reception and support. A lot of people have told me they are looking for more English music from me that aligns with American pop, and so I am currently working on English versions of my songs as well as collaborating with American producers for brand new tracks.
What are your favourite single from each EP and why?
In the Unveiling I love the song MatJa – as a belly dancer I really wanted to make a song that has a Middle Eastern feel. Music video for that is coming soon. In Crossing Over without a doubt I love Nesha Nesha – it was one of the first songs made and I loved being able to bring in my love for hip-hop and R&B – it came very naturally.
Who are your musical (or even non-musical) influences?
Musical: Shakira, Toni Braxton, Beyonce, Mariah Carey, Azam Ali and Sunidhi Chauhan. Non-musical: Catwoman
If you had to collaborate with just ONE mainstream artist, who would it be?
Lost on this one – there are too many!
So what are your plans for 2016? Any upcoming gigs?
Big plans for 2016. Releasing new English tracks of mybest songs for American listeners. Have a couple new music videos on the way. And signed a booking deal so will be touring around the US, mostly on the West Coast – get ready!
Where do you see yourself in five year’s time?
I hope to solidify my brand of music in the US and globally, and help propagate greater awareness for Indian culture and Bollywood worldwide.
Finally, how can potential fans get in touch with you?
rimibasu.com;
www.rimibasu.bandcamp.com;
www.facebook.com/rimibasumusic;
www.twitter.com/rimibasu;
Watch the video for her latest single, “Keh Du?” from album “The Unveiling”, available on Bandcamp.
