As Prateek Kuhad makes his highly anticipated return to Dubai after a year and a half, he stands as a beacon of authenticity in an industry often dominated by fleeting trends. The acclaimed Indian singer-songwriter, known for his soulful melodies and introspective lyrics, merges traditional Indian folk music with contemporary sounds, captivating audiences worldwide.
“Dubai is always a great place to perform,” says Kuhad, who is set to take the stage on September 20. While many envision Dubai as a bustling urban hub, the 34-year-old artist finds profound inspiration in the vast, serene desert surrounding the city. “When I was flying over, I saw this vast desert. Honestly, I find the desert quite inspiring sometimes,” he reflects, connecting the stark beauty of the landscape to his creative spirit.
Kuhad’s latest project, Silhouettes, encapsulates his introspective nature and invites listeners to explore their own identities amidst chaos. “The more we live life, the more stimuli we experience,” he explains, acknowledging the overwhelming nature of external opinions that come with being a public figure. “People tell you things directly or you read things online. It affects you,” he admits, revealing a vulnerability often masked by his quiet demeanor.
Insights from a Conversation with Prateek Kuhad:
Q: What brings you back to Dubai?
A: “When I get called to play a show, I come to play a show, you know? Dubai is always a delightful place to perform!”
Q: What captivates you about the city?
A: “It’s the expanse that intrigues me. The vast, sparse desert is quite inspiring.”
Q: What inspired the name Silhouettes for your tour?
A: “It reflects how the noise of opinions can make you feel disconnected from your true self. It’s overwhelming, especially for those in the limelight.”
Q: How do you navigate fame?
A: “It’s a journey that takes time to adjust to. You can only focus on what you can change internally and block out the noise.”
Q: How does fame affect your art?
A: “Not much. I’ve kept my art protected, but other aspects of life can be influenced.”
Q: Do you think loyal fans still exist in today’s music landscape?
A: “I just bring out the guitar and hope they show up. I focus on doing things for myself rather than seeking external validation.”
Q: What’s the current state of the independent music scene?
A: “It’s moving positively, offering more freedom to produce and promote music independently, but competition remains fierce.”
Q: What are your thoughts on AI in music?
A: “AI-generated music hasn’t reached a level of quality that rivals human creativity. It’s a tool for creation, but it doesn’t replace the human touch.”
Q: Fans often say music, especially in Bollywood, sounds different now. What’s your take?
A: “That’s the cycle of time and perception. There will always be a longing for what was once popular.”
Q: What can your Dubai fans expect from your concert?
A: “Just come and have a good time! It’s going to be a great show.”
As Kuhad prepares to perform, he invites his audience to embrace their true selves and reflect on the depth of their identities through the music he creates. His journey highlights the balance between authenticity and the pressures of modern fame, reminding us all of the importance of staying true to oneself.
