Interview: Indian Musician Gravero Shares a Heart-to-Heart About Success, Failures, and His Future Goals
Photo Courtesy of GRAVERO
We are no strangers to Passenger’s song “Let Her Go,” and those who find themselves indulging in indie music from India would agree when I say that Anuv Jain’s “HUSN” is a beautifully written track. If you have been active enough on social media, you might just find yourself crooning to a catchy mashup of these two songs. The maker of that viral mashup is none other than Gravero. The mashup has garnered over 15 million views on Instagram alone!
Gravero is an up-and-coming musician from India. He rose to fame with an eclectic blend of song mashups which can only be deemed as ‘viral’ and ‘well-loved.’ After the recent success of his remix version of Alan Walker’s “Who I Am,” Gravero has found newfound fame across the music community. He found himself amongst various playlists across online music streaming platforms propelling his name to a wider audience.
HALSUG spoke to this hitmaker about his work so far, how he deals with the fame and naysayers, and more. What’s interesting is that Gravero also gave us a spoiler about his next project! Want to know what that is?
Read on this exclusive interview with Gravero to find out!
Please introduce yourself to our readers! Let’s begin with your moniker ‘Gravero.’ How did that come about?
Hello to all the readers out here! I go by the name ‘Gravero’, a moniker that emerged from a mix of creativity and personal change. Initially, I started with the name ‘Master-B,’ which, admittedly, wasn’t the best choice due to some unexpected teasing.
Seeking a change, I brainstormed with a friend and stumbled upon ‘Graver’ — a name that hinted at a certain depth but felt slightly off the mark for me. Adding an ‘O’ to it, ‘Gravero’ was born. It was a name that just sounded cool and unique. Importantly, it nods to my music’s tendency to gravitate towards and blend different genres. Sometimes, the right name just clicks, even if it’s entirely made up!
If someone is to listen to a Gravero composition for the first time, which song would you recommend to them?
For those new to my sound, I highly suggest beginning with "Kitaab." It holds a special place in my heart as one of my favorite pieces I've ever worked on. "Kitaab" is a prime example of my musical ethos, with deep melodies and resonant lyrics. It's the perfect introduction to my style and the emotional depth I strive to convey through my music.
Describe Gravero’s music in just a few adjectives. What sets Gravero apart in the crowd?
Gravero's music can be described as eclectic, immersive, and powerful. What truly sets me apart is the effortless fusion of traditional and contemporary sounds, creating a distinctive auditory scene that transcends boundaries. And I guess I know what my audience actually wants from me, so that helps me a lot to deliver to them. My approach to music, melding genres and cultures, offers listeners a unique, multi-layered experience that is both innovative and deeply rooted in musical traditions.
Your version of Alan Walker’s “Who I Am” recently found its spot amongst popular playlists across music streaming platforms. How are you feeling about this achievement? How did that collaboration come about?
Seeing my version of “Who I Am” gain recognition and secure spots on popular playlists across streaming platforms has been very gratifying. It’s a feeling of both excitement and humility, knowing that my interpretation resonates with so many listeners. This achievement is a testament to the hard work poured into the project.
It’s been a dream come true to blend my style with Alan Walker’s iconic soundscape. I’ve long admired his work, immersing myself in his sets, tutorials, and vlogs, and becoming intimately familiar with his unique approach to music. The opportunity to contribute to his ‘Who I Am’ EP felt like the universe aligning my ambitions with reality. When Alan reached out with a tight deadline of 8-9 days for the feature, the pressure was on.
It’s amusing in retrospect because the core version of my remix was crafted within 100 hours. Mohak Chabbria, my mix engineer, polished the track over the next two days, and Siddharaj Parmar laid down the flute tracks in just one day. This rapid and dedicated effort from everyone involved really showcases the commitment and synergy in bringing this project to life.
What inspired you to create mashups, in addition to creating your original compositions? If given a chance, whom would you like to collaborate with, for making a remix or an original composition?
The inspiration to create mashups alongside my original compositions comes from a desire to explore the limitless possibilities of music. Mashups allow me to blend different genres, eras, and vibes, creating something entirely new and unexpected. It’s a playful yet challenging way to engage with music, pushing my boundaries and connecting with listeners on a different level.
I’ve always dreamt of collaborating with Alan, and it finally became a reality. But I also have my sights set on collaborations with Martin Garrix, San Holo, Arijit Singh, Usha Uthup Ji, Vaultboy, and many others. The list is so long, I can’t even remember them all. But I’m already putting my intentions out there!
What do you look for in the songs when creating a mashup track? What part of the music-making process do you enjoy the most?
When creating a mashup track, I look for several key elements in the songs I choose to mix together. Firstly, I seek tracks with compatible keys and tempos to ensure smooth transitions and harmonious layering. Beyond technical aspects, I also consider the emotional resonance and thematic coherence between the songs. Selecting tracks that complement each other in terms of mood, lyrical content, and overall vibe is essential to crafting an impactful mashup.
As for the music-making process, I find joy in every stage, but there are a few aspects that stand out for me. Firstly, I deeply enjoy the initial spark, the moment of inspiration when I get an idea for a mashup and envision how different tracks could blend together to create something new and exciting.
Additionally, I relish the process of arranging and layering the tracks, experimenting with different combinations and transitions to find the perfect balance and flow. Finally, I find great satisfaction in the final polishing stage, where I fine-tune the mix and master the track to perfection, ensuring that every element shines through and contributes to the overall impact of the mashup. Each step of the music-making process offers its own rewards, and it’s this dynamic journey that keeps me passionate about creating mashups.
In your journey so far, what valuable lessons have you learned?
Throughout my journey, I’ve learned many valuable lessons that have shaped my approach to music and life. One of the most important lessons I’ve learned is the power of consistency and delivering content that resonates with my audience. By consistently creating and sharing high-quality, relatable content, I’ve been able to build a strong connection with my listeners and establish myself as a trusted source of music and inspiration.
Another lesson I’ve learned is the importance of embracing failure and using it as a stepping stone to growth. Every setback and challenge I’ve faced has provided valuable lessons and opportunities for improvement, ultimately strengthening my resilience and determination.
Additionally, I’ve learned the importance of staying true to myself and my vision, even in the face of criticism or pressure to conform. Authenticity and integrity are essential components of creative expression, and staying true to my unique voice and perspective has been instrumental in shaping my artistic identity.
Tell us more about VeroPOP. What plans do you have for 2024 when it comes to VeroPOP?
VeroPop is an independent-minded record label that aims to support artists who create impressive art but may struggle with the pre and post-release hype. Our goal is to provide a platform where artists can focus solely on their music while we handle the rest like promotion, distribution, and everything in between. More than just a label, VeroPop is a collective, fostering a community of artists who share a passion for creating authentic and impactful music.
As for our plans in 2024, we have several exciting initiatives lined up. We're focused on expanding our roster of talented artists and continuing to provide them with the support and resources they need to thrive. This includes investing in innovative marketing strategies, building strategic partnerships, and exploring new avenues for artist development and promotion.
Additionally, we're committed to fostering an inclusive community within VeroPop, where artists can collaborate, share ideas, and support each other's creative endeavors. Through curated events, workshops, and digital platforms, we aim to nurture a supportive ecosystem that empowers artists to reach their full potential.
Overall, our vision for 2024 is to further establish VeroPop as a leading force in the independent music scene, championing artists who push boundaries, defy conventions, and inspire audiences worldwide. We're excited about the opportunities that lie ahead and look forward to making a meaningful impact in the music industry and beyond.
You have dabbled in Hindi and English music a lot. Do you find yourself venturing into other regional Indian music in the future?
Absolutely! While Hindi and English music have been prominent in my repertoire, I’m deeply passionate about exploring and celebrating the rich diversity of regional Indian music. Each region of India boasts its own unique musical traditions, instruments, and styles, and I’m eager to delve into these rich cultural tapestries to create music that honors and celebrates their heritage.
Venturing into other regional Indian music is not only an exciting endeavor but also an opportunity to connect with new audiences and expand my musical horizons. Whether it’s incorporating elements of Carnatic music from the South, Baul music from Bengal, or folk traditions from Rajasthan, I’m eager to explore the vast array of regional Indian music and incorporate it into my compositions in meaningful and authentic ways.
By embracing and celebrating regional Indian music, I hope to not only enrich my own journey but also contribute to the preservation and promotion of India’s diverse musical heritage. It’s an exciting journey ahead, and I look forward to the discoveries and collaborations that lie ahead in this multifaceted musical landscape.
Don’t you feel the pressure when putting yourself out there in the world? What strategies do you use to handle criticism from naysayers?
Putting myself out there in the world definitely feels like stepping onto a stage with a banana peel underfoot, there's a mix of excitement and the looming threat of slipping up. To handle criticism from naysayers, I've developed a foolproof strategy: I imagine them as grumpy cats wearing monocles, sipping on cups of "Haterade."
It's hard to take their critiques too seriously when you picture them in such a comical light! Plus, I've got my trusty team of cheerleaders, my mom's "You're a star, sweetie!" texts, and my best friend's snort-inducing memes, to keep me grounded and laughing through it all. After all, if you can't laugh at yourself, you're missing out on the best punchline of all!
One of your “HUSN” mashups was an accidental upload but was a hit amongst your listeners. Have any such ‘happy accidents’ happened before? How would you find yourself dealing with them?
Yes, happy accidents are not uncommon in the process, and I've experienced a few myself. In addition to the accidental upload of the “HUSN” mashup that turned out to be a hit, there have been instances where unexpected twists or mistakes led to surprising and positive outcomes. When dealing with these happy accidents, I've learned to embrace them with an open mind and adaptability. Instead of viewing them as setbacks, I see them as opportunities for creative exploration and innovation. I strive to maintain a flexible and positive attitude, allowing room for spontaneity and experimentation in my work.
In handling such situations, communication is key. I make sure to keep my audience informed and engaged, acknowledging the mistake or unexpected outcome while also highlighting the positive aspects. By maintaining transparency and authenticity, I'm able to turn these happy accidents into valuable learning experiences and opportunities for growth.
Ultimately, dealing with happy accidents involves a combination of adaptability, creativity, and effective communication. By embracing the unexpected and finding opportunities for improvement, I can navigate through these situations with confidence and resilience.
Lastly, what do you have to say to our readers? Perhaps any spoilers for what’s in store?
To all the readers, I want to extend a heartfelt thank you for your support and enthusiasm. Your encouragement and feedback mean the world to me, and I’m truly grateful for the opportunity to share my music with you. As for spoilers, let me give you a sneak peek into one project that I'm incredibly excited about: “Anjaana.”
It's a collaboration with NVKE, an amazing producer from Pune, and my dear friend Vasu Kainth, a talented singer-songwriter from Ludhiana, Punjab. I have this strong feeling that ‘Anjaana’ will be one of my most anticipated projects yet. It’s a fusion of our unique styles and energies, and I believe it’s going to resonate with a lot of people. Make sure to keep an eye on my social media for all the updates on its progress! Trust me, you won’t want to miss this.
That certainly raises anticipation for Gravero’s next musical offering! What is your favorite song from Gravero? Let us know by leaving a comment below or by reaching out on our Instagram or (X) Twitter.
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Artist Facts
Name/Stage Name: Sourav Ray/Gravero
Birthday: September 9, 2002
Nationality: Indian
Zodiac Sign: Virgo
MBTI: ENFJ-T (I just took a test, and I got this haha)
Fave Foods: Bruschetta, North Indian cuisine, Caramel Custard
Fave Drinks: Peach Ice Tea, Lemonade
Fave Movies: Om Shanti Om, The Sky is Pink, Spirited Away, Grave of the Fireflies
Day or Night: Night
Song you're most proud of: “Raabta”
Edited by Alliya Garcia
