A chorus of excitement is resonating across India as global music icons like Coldplay and Ed Sheeran are set to perform in the country after years of absence. Fans from over 500 cities are anticipated to flock to Ahmedabad for Coldplay's highly awaited shows, marking a significant moment for Indian music lovers who often feel overlooked by major international acts. The recent viral success of Dua Lipa's Mumbai concert has reignited hopes for more live performances from world-renowned artists.
Demand for live music is on an upward trajectory in India, with ticketing service BookMyShow reporting an 18% surge in sales for 2024. Major acts including Ed Sheeran, Shawn Mendes, and Louis Tomlinson are set to grace the stage at festivals like Lollapalooza in March, further confirming India's appeal to Western musicians. Marketing expert Dr. Sourindra Banerjee explains that the youthful demographic of India's 1.4 billion population is a significant attraction for artists seeking to expand their fanbase.
The Indian music industry, valued at 19 billion rupees (£178 million) in 2021, is projected to reach 37 billion rupees (£346 million) by 2026. As Western artists recognize the potential of reaching India's young and diverse population, the landscape for local artists is also shifting, offering chances for collaboration and exposure. Independent musician Anoushka Maskey believes the arrival of big names provides visibility opportunities previously unavailable in India.
However, challenges remain for local artists in this new environment. Concerns about overshadowing from larger acts and competition for audience attention are prevalent among emerging musicians. Yet, they also see this influx as a chance to elevate their craft and gain inspiration. Frizzell D'Souza, a pop artist from Bangalore, emphasizes the cultural exchange aspect, noting that international recognition can enhance the global presence of Indian artists.
To maximize this opportunity, some industry experts assert the need for improved infrastructure capable of hosting larger events. Music journalist Peony Hirwani highlights that while significant support acts often accompany international names, better venues are crucial to attract more A-list artists like Taylor Swift and Beyoncé, both of whom have yet to perform in India. The infrastructure must evolve to ensure that concerts are enjoyable and accessible, reflecting the growing music culture in the country.
As interest in live performances from global stars flourishes, it marks an exciting chapter for India's music industry, presenting both opportunities and challenges for local talent and promising a vibrant future for live music in the nation.
