The Indian Performing Right Society Ltd. (IPRS) and the Korean Music Copyright Association (KOMCA) are proud to celebrate the success of KOLAB, the Indo-Korean Music Collaboration Programme, which culminated in an exclusive listening session on November 13th in Andheri, Mumbai. The event brought together a vibrant mix of industry leaders and distinguished guests to celebrate the emerging talent from KOLAB. Attendees were treated to a first listen of the exceptional songs created during the KOLAB songwriting camp, immersing themselves in the creative synergy and unique collaboration that unfolded.
This event provided a powerful platform for the artists to showcase their finest collaboratively crafted tracks, blending Indian and Korean musical elements in ways that resonated deeply with the audience. The showcase not only highlighted the fusion of diverse musical traditions but also offered valuable exposure and career opportunities for the artists, whose compositions left a lasting impact on the distinguished gathering of music industry professionals.
From November 6th to 12th, 2024, at the True School of Music, Vijaybhoomi University in Jamrung, 19 talented music creators from India and South Korea joined forces to produce cross-cultural compositions. The collaborative songwriting camp featured Indian singers such as Irfana Ahameed, Himanshu Dhir, Chintan Chauhan, Aryan Katoch, Meera Desai, Vaani Bhasin, The Kabir, Josh Brar, Pari Pander, Nabjot, Takar Nabam, Basant Kur, Chet Singh, Jashan Inder, and Imnamaong Imchen alongside renowned Korean artists Kong Dong Uk, Kim Jinhoon, Son Ju Kwang, Yang Hae Jin, and Lee Jungmin. Over the course of this immersive songwriting and production camp, participants blended Indian and Korean influences, creating music with global appeal.
Led by creative directors Bunty Bains and Mayur Puri, the camp fostered an environment where the artists could draw inspiration from their diverse cultural backgrounds, resulting in a dynamic collection of music that embodies the energy and potential of this groundbreaking cultural exchange.
Reflecting on the initiative, Mayur Puri, lyricist, screenwriter, film-director and Board Member at IPRS, shared, “KOLAB has brought young creators from India and Korea into a truly collaborative space, allowing them to express themselves freely and create something genuinely original. This initiative breaks away from commercial constraints, enabling artists to blend their unique styles and cultural roots naturally. It’s inspiring to witness how the spirit of collaboration has brought the richness of both Indian and Korean music heritage together, and we’re excited about expanding this platform for more cross-cultural partnerships in the future.”
Kim Kibeom, Board Member KOMCA, added, “This camp has brought about a transformation for the Korean artists. It provided them with an opportunity to break away from their usual creative habits and be inspired by collaboration with Indian artists. By experiencing the diverse music styles and cultures unique to India, their artistic horizons have broadened. Additionally, collaboration with artists and producers from both countries facilitated a cultural exchange that they hadn’t had access to before. This experience will undoubtedly help the KOMCA artists grow personally and will contribute to the creation of fresh and innovative works in the Korean music scene.”
Adding his enthusiasm, Bunty Bains, Lyricist, Composer, Producer & CEO of Bunty Bains Productions, shared, “Being part of KOLAB as Creative Director and curator of the song camp has been an incredibly rewarding experience. The artists have not only demonstrated remarkable talent but have also embraced each other’s cultural influences, crafting music that beautifully blends Indian and Korean legacies. The freedom to create without boundaries has led to exceptional compositions, merging tradition with fresh, contemporary sounds. The songs produced truly reflect the diversity of talent and unique synergy that defines KOLAB, surpassing all expectations in quality and creativity.”
Sharing his views, Rakesh Nigam, CEO of IPRS said, “I believe that genuine, impactful music is born from an environment where artists feel free to experiment without the pressure of producing hits. Through this relaxed, collaborative spirit, the artists have produced songs that are truly inspiring and full of promise. I am filled with optimism and gratitude. The experience has exceeded my expectations, and I look forward to continuing this journey, providing more opportunities for emerging artists, and fostering connections that contribute to the global music landscape.”
KOLAB’s listening session in Mumbai marked not only the culmination of this remarkable collaboration but also the beginning of new artistic partnerships between the India and South Korea.
As IPRS and KOMCA continues to foster meaningful cultural exchange through such initiatives, KOLAB paved the way for emerging artists to gain recognition and build connections that elevate their music on a global stage.
