Singer and rapper Hard Kaur talks about her journey, hip-hop and her new album Sherni in an exclusive interview.
What can you tell us about your journey and evolution as a person and as an artist?
It’s been amazingly exciting, painfully hard, superbly entertaining and a great source of inspiration and wisdom. The experiences have definitely made me much stronger and smarter as a person. As an artist, developing my technique, as well as writing and composing have all improved on a very high level.
How did your love for Hip-Hop happen? When did you decide to take it up as your career?
I was 13 years old when I watched my first ever hip-hop video – “Chief Rocka” by Lords of Da Underground. I began my journey to first learn all about the world of Hip-Hop and slowly fell in love with music and artists such as KRS-1, Wu-Tang, Mobb Deep, Biggie, etc. By the time I was 15, I was writing and released my first single in 1996 at the age of 16.
How did you get your big break and then Bollywood?
I had no plans of coming to Bollywood and I was influenced by American hip-hop so my attention was originally in that direction. But when my song “Glassy” became a hit on the Indian scene, I came to India to do a few shows where I met Shankar, Ehsaan & Loy and we worked on the track “Move your Body” for the movie Johnny Gadaar. From there I started recording back to back and I feel very blessed for the love I’ve received from India.
What sets you apart from anyone else?
I guess it’s being who I am. I think too many of us live up to the expectations of others and waste a lot of time pleasing them and being too fake. It’s tiring and I refuse to live under pressure. Music wise, I definitely stand out of the crowd. Whether that’s good or bad is a matter of taste and knowledge.
What is success according to you?
Apart from the money, fame and respect which are what most people consider as success, I personally feel knowledge and experience are the most powerful gifts. I believe that the more knowledgeable you are, the more successful you are.
What is your take on the music talent hunt shows on television?
I think they are great as they give a fresh artist a lot of coverage and popularity. However only a few come out of it successful and get work regularly in playback and stage shows. I enjoy watching new musicians and singers showcase their talent.
What do you believe is the single most valuable lesson you’ve learned in your career?
Trust no one but there are good people that you’ll meet along the way.
What are your other interests?
I love cooking as well as cooking shows – I’m addicted to Masterchef Australia and Topchef.
Do you have any regrets?
Yes, I regret having given my love to the wrong people.
Do you have any wish?
I wish to give as much happiness and peace as I can to my mother.
Do you have any advice for the young generation who want to establish their career in music?
Do it for the right reasons. If you are talented, determined and disciplined, nothing can stop you.
How would you describe yourself as a person?
I’d say I am understanding, encouraging and sometimes loud.
What two traits do you possess that not many people know about?
I’m a super good cook and a bit of a hygiene freak.
What was the inspiration behind your new album Sherni?
I wrote Sherni about four years ago before the release of my second Album P.L.A.Y., but didn’t want to release it back then as I didn’t think people were ready for it. It’s not a commercial track so I had no label to back it up. So I launched my own record label – Future Records India and since the digital scene is bigger, we can now showcase our authentic music and style.
What’s next for you?
There will be some new releases on my record label soon. I am also helping other artists and I want to become a big music director.
