As we usher in 2024, a beacon of self-assurance shines brightly in the Indian music scenario, embodied by none other than singer-songwriter Jasleen Royal. With her recent shift towards independent music, Royal has made waves, captivating listeners with her singles “Heeriye” and “Dastoor,” which have garnered significant traction the previous year. The former not only resonated with a wide audience but also secured a spot in the top 10 most streamed songs on a leading music streaming app’s year-end list, featuring alongside revered tracks like “Maan meri jaan” by King and “Kesariya” from the movie Brahmāstra.
One of the truly remarkable feats for Royal was witnessing her track “Heeriye” stand its ground against the highly-publicized song “Chaleya,” associated with the mega movie star Shah Rukh Khan. Both tracks were released within a short span of each other in the latter half of the last year, sparking an informal contest where fans indulged in streaming their favorite pick. “Heeriye” gracefully oscillated between the number one and two spots on the charts, demonstrating its allure despite “Chaleya” benefiting from extensive marketing and the star power of Shah Rukh Khan.
Royal, who earned widespread adoration for her contribution to the 2021 movie soundtrack “Shershaah” with the hit track “Ranjha,” did not lend her musical talents to film projects in 2023. This strategic withdrawal from the film music space has been instrumental in shaping her current and future endeavors; her focus has undeniably shifted to cultivating her presence as an independent artist. A stride filled with certainty, Royal has declined various film music offers, firmly believing in the path she has chosen, with an unwavering resolve to continue as an independent music artist.
This resolve showcases not only Royal’s commitment to her art but also the evolving landscape of the music industry where independent artists are increasingly finding their rightful place in the spotlight. Her journey is a testament to the changing tides in the realm of art and entertainment, where the ubiquity of streaming platforms challenges the traditional reach and influence of film music, offering a divergent path to success and recognition for indie artists.
Royal’s story is one of courage and conviction. The artist, in embracing independence, acknowledges the risks associated with a lack of major-label backing or the platform that film music inherently provides. Nevertheless, her success narrative reveals a heartening truth: art, when genuine and resonant, can transcend conventional barriers and touch lives regardless of its origins.
Moreover, the trend is reflective of a broader pattern recognizing the worth of independent artists who bring authenticity and personal narratives to their craft. There’s an increasing admiration for musicians who step outside the expected norms and choose to pave their own path. Royal’s dedication to her individual artistry underscores this movement, not just for herself but as an inspiration for fellow and upcoming artists.
Her story, therefore, isn’t simply about chart rankings or streaming numbers; it’s a much-needed reminder of the potential that lies within independent art forms. As the Indian music industry continues to expand and adapt, its audience is also evolving, with an appetite for diverse musical experiences.
Royal’s trajectory thus far indicates that 2024 will likely be a year where she deepens her exploration into independent music, carving out a niche that could potentially inform and influence the broader musical landscape in India and perhaps even beyond. Against the backdrop of an industry often dominated by film-centric tracks, her resolve to prioritize her independent musical identity becomes not just a personal choice, but also a cultural statement. With artists like Jasleen Royal at the helm, the indie music scene in India looks poised for a dynamic and hopeful future.
