Shakthisree Gopalan Returns to Indie Roots

Shakthisree Gopalan has released her new independent single, 'Old Friend,' signaling a deliberate return to her foundational artistic identity. Gopalan began her career as an independent artist before achieving recognition as a playback singer and, more recently, a film composer. She views this renewed focus on independent music as a homecoming, stating it feels like returning to her roots.

Her journey included a sabbatical at the Berklee College of Music, followed by two years composing for the film 'Test.' Over the past year, Gopalan has dedicated more energy to her independent projects, starting with 'Old Friend.' This song emerged during the lockdown period, serving as a personal exploration of coping mechanisms and emotional processing.

Gopalan draws a distinction between film singing and independent music, likening the former to acting or role-playing where a character is defined. Independent music, conversely, allows for a deeper exploration of her own experiences and emotions. She also noted the impact of composing for films, realizing the significant power of background scores in shaping audience perception and narrative.

Looking back, Gopalan's dedication to independent music is a significant aspect of her evolving career. The release of 'Old Friend' is the first of many anticipated independent works, underscoring her commitment to this genre.