Embarking on a melodic odyssey with Ravi Nair — a multi-instrumentalist, producer, musician, and music educator whose symphony resonates deeply with a vast audience. From his formative memories attending bhajans alongside his father & mother to the soul-stirring releases as Sawaali and with his bands, Ravi’s transformation as an artist is profound and heartwarming.
Ravi Nair’s candid tales of personal growth, music’s therapeutic essence, and the unwavering support of loved ones provide not just a glimpse into his musical universe but also invaluable insights for aspiring musicians. In an era where music dynamically evolves, Ravi’s narrative stands as a testament to the power of authenticity, connection, and the timeless magic of music.
Icy Tales is in conversation with Ravi Nair about his musical journey, his performances, and his experience at events and concerts, songs that are very near to his heart, and his interaction with the fans of what he does.
Q) Can you tell us about your journey?
Ravi Nair: Alright, so I have been a musician for as long as I can remember. I began my professional journey with music alongside my father. We used to go to bhajans when I was a young boy. Since then, I have picked up multiple instruments, been part of multiple bands, recorded quite a few songs for various people, contributed to movies, performed at numerous shows, and taught music. Additionally, I run a digital marketing startup primarily focused on artists called “Tiimii Media“.
Q) Touring can be quite a unique experience for musicians. What’s one memorable moment or story from your tours that you’d like to share with your fans?
Ravi Nair: There have been times when my gig would end, and I’d have to leave for another city or place. On several occasions, after finishing my gig, I’d get so involved with the audience, especially the fans who’d approach me.
I’d end up missing buses trains and flights because I’d lose track of time talking to them. Just recently, while I was in Rishikesh for a gig, a girl approached me, expressing her admiration in a very humble manner. She made me feel like everything that I do irrespective of all the pros and cons was all worth it for such admiration and the deep impact that comes as a by-product of doing what I do.
Such moments are truly reflective of how art touches people and how lucky I feel to be a part of this musical journey. Interacting with an audience that genuinely appreciates what we do on stage, and hearing how it impacts their lives, is incredibly touching.
Q) Your EP with Sulfurcloud is titled “Brand New Life.” Could you give us some insight into the inspiration behind this project and what it means to you personally?
Ravi Nair: “Brand New Life” is an EP I did with my band, Sulfurcloud. It was our first-ever EP. The inspiration behind it was to weave a narrative across four songs, detailing the story of a girl. This story also resonates with a phase in my life. The narrative explores the dynamics of a relationship, from the mysterious beginnings to the passionate phase and eventual separation. The songs in the EP trace this journey.
Q) You also have officially released songs. Is there a particular song that holds special significance to you, and if so, why?
Ravi Nair: Among all the songs I’ve released, three records are particularly significant to me. One is an album I recorded with my band, Rainburn. Listening to the final mixes of the album after months of hard work was an overwhelming experience.
Another significant piece is my solo track “Restart” by Sawali, which I recorded, mixed, mastered and produced, and by myself. It represents a major milestone in my musical journey. And the third one is “Brand New Life” where we hit the studio and recorded 5 songs live in a single take after hours of grueling practice sessions.
Q) Being a multi-instrumental musician, producer, and music educator is quite a diverse skill set. How do these roles complement each other in your creative process?
Ravi Nair: All these roles converge around the principle of being present and mindful. Every activity, whether it’s performing with a band, teaching a student, or working with a client for a release, is an exercise in mindfulness and awareness. Practicing this across different roles opens up my creative space, allowing me to improve and evolve every day.
Q) How do you approach the creative process when composing music, and do you have any unique rituals or methods that help spark your inspiration?
Ravi Nair: There isn’t a fixed approach for me per se. Some days are good, some aren’t. I ensure I spend time with my instrument every day. Occasionally, I’ll stumble upon something that intrigues me, prompting me to develop it further. There are also times when I’d write about specific experiences or feelings from the day. The muse decides its schedule, but staying connected with my instrument and myself encourages frequent visits.
Q) Music often serves as a reflection of personal experiences and emotions. Can you share a particular life event or emotion that strongly influenced one of your songs?
Ravi Nair: Around 2019-2020, during the COVID-19 pandemic, I experienced a profound phase of self-reflection and realization. I understood that it was solely up to me to shape my journey and not to blame external factors. This realization led to a poem I shared on Sawaali YouTube channel .
Q) Can you share any upcoming projects or collaborations that your fans can look forward to?
Ravi Nair: Currently, I’m traveling between Rishikesh and Dehradun working on various things. My oldest surviving project, Sulfurcloud, is releasing a song called “Slope” to mark its 10th anniversary. Additionally, I’m gearing up to record songs with Western Express Highway and Kacchi Mitti in the coming week. Also, Kacchi Mitti has been invited to play at IMA Dehradun’s 91st Raising Day and I’m super stoked to play some fresh original indie music for a lot of dignitaries including the Honorable Governor of Uttarakhand.
Q) In the ever-evolving music industry, how do you stay inspired and continue to evolve your sound as a musician?
Ravi Nair: My sound evolves in tandem with my personal growth. My main focus is on personal development, mindfulness, and living in harmony with the world around me & inside me. This personal evolution directly influences my creative evolution. Not to forget practicing regularly and monitoring areas where I need improvement, spending time on learning and executing concepts that tickle me. It is no less than magical to witness this.
Q) What advice would you give to aspiring musicians or those looking to pursue a career in the music industry based on your own experiences and journey?
Ravi Nair: I’d recommend humility above all. If you ground yourself in humility and prioritize the soul and feel of the music, you’re on the right path. While technical proficiency is important, the music’s emotion and soul truly resonate with the audience and at the same time touches something deep down inside, which is extremely crucial in this journey.
Ravi Nair’s harmonious journey emerges as an inspiring anthem in the constantly shifting world of music. With a unique blend of technical prowess and emotive soul, he has seamlessly etched a special note in the symphony of the industry and audiences alike.
Beneath the spotlight and accolades that the realm of music often showcases, Ravi’s path is deeply rooted in genuine passion and introspection. His story is a rich composition of challenges met, victories celebrated, and wisdom acquired.
As the rhythm of the music world accelerates, Ravi stands as a soulful reflection that, at the core of this vast expanse, rests the essence of human emotion, the significance of continuous learning, and the ethereal beauty of harmonies that touch the heart.
Last Updated on by Icy Tales Team
