Jun 21, 2026 2:30pm IST
Jonita Gandhi: “This World Music Day, I want more females dominating the charts” (EXCLUSIVE)
Jonita Gandhi’s trajectory from a bedroom cover artist in Brampton to a powerhouse global pop and playback singer is one of the Indian music industry's most compelling success stories. Known for her effortless ability to switch between massive Bollywood dance anthems and slick, contemporary independent pop, she has carved out a distinct cross-cultural identity. On World Music Day, Variety India speaks to Jonita Gandhi about her musical evolution, studio quirks, her vision for a more inclusive industry and more.
You sing in so many different languages. Which one changes your vibe the most?
I find that when I switch languages, my vibe changes automatically. But honestly, more than the language itself, it’s really the type of song that brings out different characters in my voice.
If you had to describe what your music sounds like right now in just three words, what would they be?
I would say smooth, groovy, and bold.
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Is there anything you genuinely miss about your early days in the industry?
I think I miss my "Sunday Singstagrams." I used to love posting those casual, raw covers on Instagram.
What is your biggest pre-stage ritual compared to your biggest habit when you're working in the studio?
My biggest pre-stage ritual is drinking a black coffee right before I step out on stage. As for my biggest studio habit? It's drinking a black coffee right in the middle of my session.
How do you handle fixing a mistake live on stage versus fixing it when you're in the recording booth?
On stage, you just have to accept it if you make a mistake. You can't really go back and fix it in the moment, so you just have to find the beauty in that live vulnerability. In the studio, it's a completely different environment, you just stop and take it from the top.
This World Music Day, what is your biggest wish?
This World Music Day, I want more females dominating the charts. That’s not just for me, but the industry as a whole.
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