Shibani Kashyap
Singer-Songwriter & Composer | TEDx Speaker
Spotlight Interview: Shibani Kashyap — Blending Soul, Sound, and Spirit
From a spontaneous choir performance to creating her own fusion music IP, singer Shibani Kashyap shares her journey, influences, and musical identity.
Q1. When did you first feel that music was your true calling?
It all started in school when I was part of the choir. One day, our lead singer was absent, and without hesitation, I volunteered to sing. The moment I opened my mouth, it just felt right—like I was meant to be there. From that day, there was no looking back. I went on to lead the choir, represent my school in competitions, and eventually perform at the Sangam Kala Group All India Vocal Music Competition. I still remember Jagjit Singh ji telling me after my performance, “Tum singer hi banna.” That moment sealed it—I knew this wasn’t just a hobby. It was my purpose.
Q2. What role did that early recognition play in shaping your musical path?
It was everything. When someone like Jagjit Singh ji acknowledges your talent, it stays with you for life. His words gave me not just validation but a sense of direction. It instilled in me the confidence to pursue music with all my heart. That early encouragement made me believe that I was on the right path—and that belief has carried me through every high and low in my journey.
Q3. You’re known for your versatility. How do you approach different musical genres?
I’ve always felt that music should be expansive, not restrictive. I’ve explored everything from pop and folk to Sufi, bhajans, and semi-classical. I haven’t had traditional
classical training, but I’ve studied light classical music and always been drawn to jazz, indie pop, and other global sounds. I believe in following the emotion behind a song, not just the form. That’s what allows me to move across genres while staying authentic to each one.
Q4. What inspires your passion for fusion music?
Fusion is where my heart truly feels at home. I love the creative freedom of blending Indian and Western styles—it’s like bringing two worlds together to create something new and meaningful. That’s what inspired me to create my IP, ‘Jashn Ek Shaam’, where I globalize Sufi music by mixing it with jazz and Qawwali. There’s something magical that happens when you combine the spirituality of Qawwali with the sophistication of jazz—it becomes an experience that touches both the mind and soul.
Q5. What’s the secret behind staying fresh and evolving as an artist?
For me, it’s all about curiosity and experimentation. I never want to stop learning or growing. I stay open to new sounds, cultures, and collaborations. The key is to honor the essence of each genre while bringing your unique voice to it. Music is a living, breathing thing—and if you listen closely, it always tells you where to go next.
Q6. You've performed across the globe—from Bigg Boss OTT to UNESCO events. How do international platforms shape your artistry?
Each international platform brings with it a different cultural energy—and as an artist, I love tuning into that. Performing at the SHARQ Music Festival in Uzbekistan, organized by UNESCO, was incredibly special. I was honored to be the first Indian artist to perform there, especially at the closing ceremony. Likewise, singing for an all-Vietnamese audience at an event organized by the Indian Consulate in Vietnam was surreal. These moments connect music with diplomacy and remind me how art can transcend boundaries.
Q7. From TEDx talks to activism—how do you balance being both an artist and a changemaker?
Music is my core, but I truly believe art should have a purpose beyond performance. I’m deeply involved with The Artist Fraternity (TAF) as Vice President, where we work to uplift underprivileged communities. My TEDx talks reflect that ethos—exploring creativity and passion as tools for transformation. Whether on stage or off it, I aim to inspire and contribute meaningfully. That balance gives me a deeper sense of purpose.
Q8. Your collaboration with Grammy-winner Ricky Kej for a world peace anthem made headlines. What was that experience like?
It was deeply fulfilling. Ricky is a phenomenal composer with a global outlook, and collaborating on a world peace anthem aligned perfectly with my own values. Music has a way of uniting people beyond language or ideology. Creating something that carried a message of unity and harmony felt incredibly timely—and timeless.
Q9. Your discography spans from timeless hits like "Ho Gayi Hai Mohabbat" to recent chartbusters like "Mojito" and "Khushnuma." What keeps your sound evolving?
I believe evolution is the key to longevity. I never want to stay stagnant. Whether it’s experimenting with newer production styles, infusing global sounds, or tapping into fresh emotional spaces—my music reflects where I am in my journey. The fact that songs like “Mojito” and “Khushnuma” are resonating with younger audiences shows that staying true to your essence while adapting is the best formula.
Q10. You’ve received numerous awards, including the Dada Saheb Phalke Award and Society Achievers Award. What do these honors mean to you?
Awards are a beautiful acknowledgment of years of dedication, but for me, they’re also a responsibility. Receiving the Excellence in Music award for “Tere Naam Ki Choodiyan” with Himesh Reshammiya felt special because it came at a time when I’m still exploring and pushing boundaries. Each accolade reaffirms that I’m on the right path, and it motivates me to continue creating with integrity.
Q11. You're among the first Indian artists to perform on an international cruise like Costa Serena. What was that experience like?
It was thrilling! Performing on Costa Serena felt like merging travel, luxury, and live music into one magical moment. Theaudience was global, and it was exciting to see people from different countries vibing to Indian fusion. It reaffirmed for me that music truly is a universal language.
Q12. What message would you give to aspiring artists looking to make a mark globally?
Stay authentic, stay curious, and never stop growing. The world is more connected than ever, and there’s space for every kind of voice. But it’s your truth, your passion, and your resilience that will help you stand out—not just your talent. Keep evolving, keep listening—and most importantly, keep creating with heart.