Leslee Lewis on the current state of Indian music: They're not doing music, they’re doing dhandha
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Legendary musician Leslee Lewis critiques the modern music industry for prioritizing algorithmic trends over creative individuality. The discussion follows a recent resurgence for the duo Colonial Cousins after Prime Minister Narendra Modi gifted their vinyl to the Australian Prime Minister.
The Decline of Originality: Leslee Lewis on the State of Indian Music
The 'Dhandha' Phenomenon
Renowned musician Leslee Lewis, one half of the iconic 90s duo Colonial Cousins, has sparked a conversation regarding the artistic integrity of the contemporary Indian music industry. Lewis posits that modern music is increasingly defined by a transactional nature rather than creative expression, famously labeling it as "dhandha" (business). According to Lewis, the pressure to conform to streaming platform algorithms has homogenized the soundscape, forcing artists to replicate successful formulas rather than innovate.
The Tyranny of Algorithms
Lewis highlights a critical shift in how music is consumed and produced today. By analyzing the top 50 charts, he observes a lack of individuality, noting that tracks sound increasingly similar. This trend is driven by a feedback loop where artists cater to algorithmic preferences to ensure discoverability. Consequently, the "shelf life" of modern songs has drastically reduced, as the focus shifts from creating timeless art to chasing ephemeral trends that satisfy digital distribution requirements.
A Resurgence Through Diplomatic Recognition
Amidst these critiques, the legacy of Colonial Cousins—the collaboration between Lewis and Hariharan—has found a renewed spotlight. Their music, which defined a generation of Indian pop, recently experienced a resurgence after Prime Minister Narendra Modi presented a vinyl record of their work to the Australian Prime Minister. This high-profile gesture served as a cultural bridge, reminding the public of an era where Indian pop music focused on fusion and melodic complexity.
Cultural Implications of Musical Homogenization
The broader implication of Lewis’s critique is the potential loss of cultural identity within the Indian music scene. When creativity is sidelined for algorithmic compliance, the rich diversity of Indian musical traditions risks being flattened into a singular, globally palatable sound. This transition poses a threat to the long-term sustainability of artists who wish to maintain their unique voice in a market that demands uniformity.
Looking Toward the Future
As the industry continues to evolve, the tension between commercial viability and artistic integrity remains a central challenge. Lewis’s perspective serves as a call to action for both creators and listeners to value individuality over mass-produced content. For the music industry to reclaim its depth, it may require a shift in how success is measured—moving beyond streaming numbers and back toward the enduring impact of genuine musical craftsmanship.
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