KAVYA
The multimedia artist whose powerful notes are underscored by personal themes and raw vulnerability.
New Delhi-born and currently Mumbai-based recording, performing artist and producer KAVYA’s works exemplify how the industry is evolving to meet the musical tastes of the new generation. KAVYA’s musical repertoire - which has resulted in several features including an artist documentary titled ‘A Voyage into KAVYA’ directed by Raghavi Agarwal- reveals her from the depths of her vulnerability. What stands out is how they later deliver powerful and eclectic beats showcasing her ability to blend the rawness of an artist with technological finesse. In her songs, the multimedia artist combines soulful vocals with sporadic lyrics, exploring personal themes of self-love, life lessons, solitude and also her upbringing. While these melodies are refined digitally in software including Digital Audio Workstation, their insemination begins with just voice notes and KAVYA’s guitar chords. Having performed since the age of 14, KAVYA’s vocal talent displays a range of musical styles - a plurality that has established her as one of the most promising and popular indie artists on the Indian music front today. This tryst with her vocal timbre has also compelled Trehan to explore meaner soundscapes in her recent single ‘Fences’ in collaboration with Goya. KAVYA’s previous works also include critically acclaimed releases such as her first single 'Underscore,' followed by ‘Golden’, ‘Quin’ and more. KAVYA’s versatility extends beyond music - simultaneously exploring film, TV commercials, and editorials. She is also developing a visual language in collaboration with renowned graphic designers Khyati Trehan and Sanchit Sawaria.
Photographed by Ishaan Nair
Wearing LOVEBIRDS and Jeetinder Sandhu
KAVYA speaks to Blur The Border :
Blur : Do you have a definitive process while creating? Are there any habits or rituals that help you get into a creative mindset?
KAVYA : I cannot pinpoint a process since my approach to creativity isn't formulaic. However, there are rituals that always get me into the zone and they all happen first thing in the morning. It's often about how I start my day, reading, yoga, and imbibing a general sense of space from which then I can create something true and genuine.
Blur : What role does the environment play in your work or fuelling your creativity?
KAVYA : The environment is everything to me! I am easily influenced so if my studio surroundings aren't comforting, I won't be able to create from a mindset of clarity. When faced with a block, I often spend a lot of time re-orienting the lights and plants around when I want to jumpstart from a new perspective.
Blur : How has your music style evolved since you started out in the industry and how do you view this evolution?
KAVYA : I have always known that I like a plethora of genres, and my music is always going to evolve and sometimes confuse the audience because once they are used to one sound, I would have already jumped to another. So, it's not much of a surprise to me to go from acoustic to electronic, to experimental ambient. This evolution is the acceptance of my shapeshifting traits, and allowing the audience to explore along with me.
Blur : Are there times when you have to balance out the need to be creative with the practical aspects of being a music artist?
KAVYA : Always. Being a creative professional is all about the balancing act. On bad days I wish I could just create and not have to think about financial sustainability, but on good days I am grateful that it gives me a realistic perspective and pushes me to go beyond my comfort level.
Blur : If you were to collaborate with other artists, outside of your discipline, what is one collaboration you would love to do?
KAVYA : I would love to create a multi-disciplinary project with body movement therapists and filmmakers to see how they interpret sonic information and transform that into an interactive performance. And hopefully, travel the world with this production!
Blur : Has collaborating with different music artists influenced your own music style or approach in any way?
KAVYA: The intent of collaborations for me has always been in order to learn, and allow expanse through mutual sharing of ideas and expertise. I love working with other artists because I get to experience my own ideas through new lenses. I feel like I am always left influenced and for the better!
Blur : What is your way of dealing with criticism?
KAVYA: Unless it's constructive criticism from people I trust and respect, it is often ignored.
Blur : What do you think is still lacking in the industry when it comes to supporting independent artists?
KAVYA: Physical infrastructure for creating and performing. Easily accessible knowledge of skill building beyond harbouring hobbies. Transparency of financial portfolio building as an artist. Funding support from the streaming platforms, and so much! We are always going to be a work in progress, but as long as we keep doing what we love, it'll all come into place.