From being born in London, the bustling streets of Australia to the vibrant music scene of Mumbai, the singer, music director, and producer Denny Thakrar has carved his unique path in the music industry. His latest track 'My Time', in collaboration with Mandy Gill, is winning hearts and showcasing the synergy of two distinct musical talents.
In an exclusive interview with Punjabi Mania, Denny opened up about his journey, challenges, and inspirations, revealing the story of a Gujarati from London who found his calling in Punjabi music.
Mumbai: An Unexpected Start
Recalling his first trip to Mumbai in 2019, Denny shared, “I came here with no plans and didn’t know anyone. It was all uncharted territory. But I started meeting people and doing remixes. That led to composing for artists like Hardy Sandhu and Darshan Raval. Those connections paved the way for what would become my career.”
Music Amidst the Pandemic
When COVID-19 knocked on the doors, Denny faced a critical decision—return to Australia or stay in Mumbai. “I chose to stay, even though it meant not seeing my family for two and a half years. That period became an opportunity for me. I created a lot of music during those six to seven months, which boosted my confidence to start releasing my tracks.”
His first solo release, 'Pee Paa Ke', received widespread acclaim. He not only sang the song but also directed and composed it. Likewise, his directorial venture 'Chalein Jana Fir' amassed over 120 million streams on Spotify, and 31 million views on YouTube, marking his arrival as a force to reckon with.
Collaboration with Mandy Gill
Talking about his creative partnership with Mandy Gill, Denny said, “Although Mandy is an individual artist, we come together to create Punjabi music. Interestingly, as a Gujarati born in London, Punjabi wasn’t my forte. Mandy often teaches me the language. I grew up listening to UK Punjabi legends like Sukshinder Shinda and Jazzy B, so the genre feels familiar yet exciting.”
What’s Next for Denny?
Denny has an exciting pipeline of projects, including his upcoming EP *Never Rush*, set to release on February 6, 2025. The EP will feature collaborations with UK rapper JJ SK, promising a blend of genres and cultures.
Message to Aspiring Musicians
For those looking to break into the music industry, Denny offers sage advice: “Love what you do. The industry is evolving rapidly, and algorithms can be distracting. Focus on your craft, be honest, and give it your best. Passion and authenticity are what truly resonates.”
With his unwavering passion and relentless pursuit of excellence, Denny Thakrar is an artist to watch, continuing to break boundaries and redefine the global music landscape.
About Punjabi Mania Author
Editorial team at Punjabi Mania. Passionate about bringing the latest updates from the Punjabi entertainment industry directly to you.
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