Jonita Gandhi: Social media is a part of every musician’s life now

Indo-Canadian internet sensation Jonita Gandhi talks about singing in Lekar Hum Deewana Dil and her relationship with India.
How was it singing in Lekar Hum Deewana Dil? Initially, I was only supposed to sing Maaloom. The producers heard me sing the bonus track Tasalli during rehearsals and wanted me for it. So, during sound check AR Rahman sir asked me, ‘Are you okay?’ I thought he was asking if the sound check was okay and said, ‘Yes I’m good!’ But then he asked if I could record right then.So, after the sound check, at 5 am, we went to the studio and recorded the song.
ALSO READ: Why Lekar Hum Deewana Dil is worth a watch
You first became popular through your videos online. How did that happen?
I saw many singers recording videos of themselves and uploading them. I wanted to do that too. I came across musician Aakash Gandhi’s videos, and liked his work. I shared my songs with him that I had literally recorded on a phone. He liked them and we collaborated on Paani Da Rang, which went viral. We still continue to upload songs online.
You have a big following online. How important is it for singers to be tech-savvy today?
Social media is a part of every musician’s life now. It is the reason I got recognition and credibility in this industry. That was the cause of my success. Besides collaborating with people for work, it helps me stay in touch with my followers. Pushing yourself online is a huge thing now, and it can result in big rewards.
How is your relationship with India?
I was born in Delhi, and then we migrated to Toronto when I was nine months old. So, I grew up in Canada. I have relatives in Delhi, not so many in Mumbai. So I am pretty much on my own in Mumbai.
How did you decide to become a singer?
The real interest in music came from my dad. He is a music enthusiast and also records music. Thanks to him, I have a recording studio in my basement, where I now sing and upload songs online. I performed for the first time when I was seven years old at one of his gigs. Growing up, I just learned by listening to Lataji and Ashaji’s songs.
How did playback singing in Bollywood happen?
Before coming to India, I tried contacting music directors and singers over social media. I got in touch with a common friend who helped me get an audition with Vishal-Shekhar. It just so happened that they were working on Chennai Express when I went to their studio. They asked me to record a scratch and ended up using it. The title song became my Bollywood debut.
Was it easy shifting base to India?
The plan was that I’d go to India and test the waters, so I came here with my mom first. My parents were completely supportive. they never tried to hold me back. India was a complete culture shock. Being brought up in Canada and then moving to Mumbai is a whole new change. I had my share of difficulties and adjustments, but it was all worth it since the work I’m doing is so interesting.
How was it working with AR Rahman?
It was very random. Last year, Rahman sir tweeted about my cover of the Christmas carol, Silent Night. I couldn’t believe it! Soon after, I got a call from Rahman sir asking me to come to Chennai to record. That was for Kochadaiiyaan. Highway was then in its beginning stages and he had only made the tune for Kahan Hoon Main. I can say I was a part of the song from the beginning.
There is a lot of competition amongst new singers. How do you manage to stay ahead of the curve?
I don’t worry about what other people are doing. I don’t see them as competition. The talent pool is huge now, which is awesome. So many people come to Bombay, not only from India but from around the world. To meet them and fuse their style with yours is an great thing, if you look at it that way. In terms of staying ahead of the game, I look to artists for inspiration and try better what I’ve done. It’s the only thing that will keep me sane. It’s not healthy to worry about the competition too much. I feel that I have my own style. I come from a very unique background and have had a very different upbringing. No one can do me like I can!
LISTEN: Songs of Lekar Hum Deewana Dil on Gaana.com
WATCH: Maloom from Lekar Hum Deewana Dil