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“I’d love to write a song for Priyanka Chopra”
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It's her attitude of breaking out the stereotype and her style that made her stand out from other struggling singers in US. This young singer is gutsy, multi-faceted and constantly looking to reinvent herself. She sure is not the kind who rests on past glory, the reason behind her constant striving to make a name not only in the US but all across the world. She has not only dazzled her fans singing, but also enchanted them with her dancing skills. After releasing her first single that hit the top 10 Billboard Hot Singles Sales chart. In a candid interview with India Empire’s Assistant Editor Misha Singh, Asha talks about her struggles and accomplishments
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Tell us something about your background?
I was born in NY and raised in South Florida. I’ve been singing, performing, and songwriting my entire life. I also play the violin, piano and dabble around with the guitar as well.
You have been brought up in Miami, Florida. Do you still feel connected to India?
I definitely feel connected to India. Miami and India are both similar in the sense that they are very diverse spaces. There are so many different cultures and people to embrace in both places. I have a lot of family that live near me as well, so a home cooked Indian meal is only a few minutes away if I’m ever missing it!
What part of India are you from? Do you have frequent visits to India?
My father is from Hyderabad and my mother is from Kerala. I have been to India several times for mission trips, to visit family, and most recently to perform as well.
When did you realize that you wanted to be a singer?
I have always known I wanted to pursue music and to sing. I honestly have never thought to pursue anything career-wise that didn’t include music.
What are your plans for Bollywood?
I’m currently working with a few different Bollywood producers to create tracks that will be pitched and possibly licensed for different movies. It’s scary singing in a different language because I grew up singing mainly in English but I love being challenged.
Which Indian singer do you admire the most and wish to work with in the future?
I’d love to write a song for Priyanka Chopra. I think my kind of songwriting would fit her style well. As far as singinggoes, I’d be interested to collaborate with Shweta Pandit.
What kind of obstacles did you face in your singing career?
My biggest obstacle was trying to figure out what kind of artist I wanted to be and how I was going to differentiate myself. I knew I wanted to sing pop music but the competition is so fierce. A few years ago I had a gig as a back-up dancer and singer for Shakira. We were performing WAKA WAKA with her but right before our number she came down on a flying carpet and did this belly dancing routine. It hit me right then and there that incorporating my culture was what was going to help me stand out in the American market.
How do you feel about being a Indo-American singer who’s made it to the top #10 Billboard Hot Singles Sales chart?
It’s truly humbling. My single “Mercy” has been a 3-year project that I have piloted independently. So to see it culminate in such a grand fashion really lets me know that all my work is not for nothing.
You are a singer and a dancer. What are the other things that you are passionate about?
I love songwriting. Telling my story in a song is something I enjoy sharing with my listeners. I also really love food! I love cooking and trying new cuisines.
What are the projects you are currently working on?
Currently I am working on a few collaborations with different artists. I have a single I’m working on with Mickey Singh and hopefully a few other big names.
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February 2014
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