Singer-composer Sid Sriram recently spoke to Deccan Chronicle about his musical journey, creative influences, and the importance of staying connected to his roots. Growing up in Fremont, California, Sid was immersed in both Western music and Carnatic traditions, thanks to his mother, who ran a music school. “Carnatic music became the core of who I am. Western influences shaped my listening, while Carnatic gave me grounding,” he says. Over the years, he has incorporated R&B, hip-hop, electronic, and soul into his music, but Carnatic remains the steady foundation.
Sid sees no conflict in blending genres. “Carnatic music is the Sun, and everything else orbits around it,” he explains. His early experiments at Berklee in Boston involved mixing R&B chords with Carnatic alaps, a practice that initially came with challenges but eventually became second nature.
He is now preparing for his upcoming tour, The Homecoming, which celebrates his roots and his connection with India. “India feels like home. This tour is about celebrating the embrace from fans across the country and my 13-year journey since my first playback song,” he shares. Sid describes his concerts as three-hour journeys, carefully curated into multiple emotional arcs. Telugu hits like Srivalli, Samajavaragamana, and Neeli Neeli Aakasam are always featured, along with personal favorites and occasional surprises. Memorable moments include audiences singing along with lights up, creating spontaneous energy that leaves him exhilarated.
Preparation, rehearsals, and band camaraderie are key to his performances. Sid stays fully present during shows and enjoys watching fan recordings afterward. “It’s amazing to see the concert through their eyes,” he notes. Outside of music, he unwinds with books, movies, walks, and exploring new cities. He maintains his voice with a healthy diet and avoids overly spicy or fried foods, emphasizing that moderation is essential.
In rapid-fire questions, Sid shared that his favorite song to perform live is Samajavaragamana, he finds Western classical music inspiring, admires K-pop for its precision and fan engagement, and counts A.R. Rahman and Nas among his favorite collaborations. He advises aspiring musicians to embrace their uniqueness and dig deep into themselves. Sid also has a hidden talent for abstract sketches and dreams of collaborating with Kendrick Lamar and Diljit Dosanjh. He concludes, “Hearing my music travel to different countries is a reminder of music’s universal power. It’s a humbling and affirming experience.”
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