SMG, the talented artist behind the breakaway hit ‘Maa Baba’, has recently unveiled his highly anticipated debut album, ‘ARZU’. A heartfelt collection of 16 tracks, the album takes listeners through the complexities of love, loss, and personal growth, backed seamlessly by his eclectic and captivating style.
Known for his soulful melodies and introspective lyrics, SMG expands his artistic horizons perfectly with ‘ARZU’, showcasing his evolution from rapper to singer and his ability to blend storytelling with emotive soundscapes. In our exclusive interview, SMG opens up about the inspirations behind ‘ARZU’, his musical journey, and the deeper meanings woven into each track.
Thank you so much for taking the time to speak with us, SMG. When did you first start making music? Where did it all begin, and what inspired you?
“I first started making music during my teenage years. It all began in my hometown, where I found solace and expression in writing lyrics. My inspiration came from my parents, who worked tirelessly to provide a better life for me. Their struggles and sacrifices fuelled my passion for music, motivating me to tell stories through my songs. Watching their dedication and resilience made me realise the power of music to convey deep emotions and connect with others. This personal journey is what drives my creativity and commitment to my craft.”
Can you tell us a bit about your latest project and what it means to you?
“Absolutely! My latest project is my debut album ‘ARZU’, which holds a very special place in my heart. This album is a culmination of years of hard work, dedication, and personal experiences. Each of the 16 tracks, along with the intro and outro, represents a different facet of my life and artistic journey. From the heartfelt ‘Tum’ to the vibrant ‘Señorita’, every song tells its own story and showcases my versatility as an artist.”
“‘ARZU’ is not just an album; it's a reflection of my growth and evolution in music. It’s my way of sharing my innermost thoughts and emotions with the world, hoping to connect with listeners on a deeper level. This project is a testament to my commitment to exploring diverse lyrical styles and vocal abilities, and it marks a significant milestone in my career. It’s a dream come true to see my vision come to life and be available on all streaming platforms for everyone to experience.”
Are there any artists, moments, or experiences that influenced you when writing the project?
“Yes, several artists, moments, and experiences significantly influenced me while writing ‘ARZU’. Growing up, I was deeply inspired by legendary artists like Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan and A.R. Rahman, whose music touched my soul and shaped my understanding of melody and lyrical depth. Their ability to convey profound emotions through music motivated me to pursue my own unique sound.”
“One of the most impactful moments in my life was the release of my debut single, ‘Maa Baba’. The overwhelming response and the connection people felt to the song reaffirmed my belief in the power of music to tell personal stories and resonate universally. My parents' journey and their unwavering support have always been a cornerstone of my inspiration, pushing me to strive for authenticity in my music.”
“Additionally, personal experiences of love, heartbreak, and self-discovery played a crucial role in shaping the album. Each track is infused with real emotions and stories from my life, making ‘ARZU’ a true reflection of who I am as an artist and individual. These influences have helped me craft an album that I hope will inspire and connect with listeners on a profound level.”
What is your songwriting process? How does it all come together?
“My songwriting process is a blend of spontaneous inspiration and structured creativity. It often starts with a spark - an emotion, a phrase, or a melody that catches my attention. Sometimes, it’s a moment of personal reflection or an experience that I feel compelled to express through music.”
“Once I have that initial idea, I begin by writing down my thoughts and feelings, often in the form of raw lyrics or poetry. I then sit with my guitar or at the piano to experiment with melodies that complement the mood of the words. This stage is very fluid and intuitive; I let the music guide me, often humming different tunes until something clicks.”
“After I have a rough melody and some basic lyrics, I start to refine the song. This involves structuring the verses, chorus, and bridge, ensuring that the song flows naturally and effectively conveys the intended emotion. I pay close attention to the lyrical content, making sure each word resonates and contributes to the overall narrative.”
“Collaboration also plays a key role in my process. I enjoy working with other musicians and producers who bring fresh perspectives and ideas. Their input helps shape the final sound, adding layers and depth to the music.”
“Throughout this process, I constantly revise and refine, sometimes stepping away from a song for a while and returning to it with fresh ears. This iterative approach allows me to ensure that each track is polished and true to my artistic vision.”
“In the end, my goal is to create music that is authentic and relatable, connecting with listeners on an emotional level. The process is both challenging and rewarding, and it’s always incredible to see how an idea transforms into a complete song.”
What’s the most important thing when you’re writing a song?
“The most important thing when I'm writing a song is authenticity. It's crucial for me that the emotions and stories I convey through my music are genuine and true to my experiences. Authenticity allows me to connect deeply with my audience, making the music relatable and impactful. When listeners feel that the song comes from a real place, it resonates more powerfully and creates a lasting impression. Staying true to my voice and vision ensures that each song is a sincere reflection of who I am as an artist.”
How would you describe your sound on your latest release? Has there been a change or evolution in style since you first began?
“On my latest release, ‘ARZU’, I would describe my sound as a fusion of contemporary and classic elements, blending emotive melodies with modern production techniques. The album showcases a diverse range of styles, from heartfelt ballads like "Tum" and ‘Dil’ to upbeat tracks like ‘Señorita’ and ‘Oubadabubadaboomboom’. This variety reflects my growth as an artist and my willingness to explore different musical landscapes.”
“Since I first began, there has definitely been an evolution in my style. Early in my career, I focused more on writing for other artists and honing my lyrical skills. With ‘ARZU’, I've taken a more holistic approach, paying equal attention to production, vocal delivery, and lyrical depth. This album represents a maturation of my sound, incorporating richer arrangements and more nuanced performances.”
“The journey from my debut single ‘Maa Baba’ to ‘ARZU’ has been marked by continuous learning and experimentation. I've embraced new influences and techniques, which have helped me create a sound that's both unique and true to my roots. This evolution is a testament to my dedication to pushing boundaries and growing as an artist.”
Is there a central message or theme you were trying to convey in your latest release? Is there a moment in the release that really captures that idea?
“Yes, the central theme of ‘ARZU’ is the exploration of love and personal growth. A moment that captures this idea is the track ‘Jo Tum Pass Ho’, which beautifully encapsulates the journey of finding strength and understanding in relationships. This song reflects the album's overall message of navigating the complexities of love and self-discovery.”
What advice would you give to bands and artists who are just starting out and trying to find their sound?
“My advice to bands and artists just starting out is to stay true to yourself and your experiences. Experiment with different styles and influences, but always keep authenticity at the core of your music. Don't be afraid to take risks and be patient with your creative process. Surround yourself with supportive collaborators, and most importantly, believe in your unique voice and vision. Consistent practice and perseverance will help you find and refine your sound over time.”
What has been your best moment as a musician or band so far?
“My best moment as a musician so far has been the overwhelming response to my debut single ‘Maa Baba’. Seeing it resonate with so many people and amass over 1 million views on YouTube was incredibly rewarding. It validated my decision to pursue music and highlighted the power of authentic storytelling. This moment reaffirmed my belief in the impact of music and inspired me to continue creating and sharing my journey with the world.”
Is there anything you would like to say to our audience?
“To my audience, thank you from the bottom of my heart for your support and for being a part of this incredible journey with me. Your love and encouragement mean everything. I hope my music resonates with you and touches your hearts as much as it has touched mine. Stay tuned for more exciting releases and updates - I can’t wait to share more of my stories and emotions with you. Together, let’s continue to explore the power of music and create meaningful connections. With gratitude, SMG”
From the tender ballad ‘Tum’ to the upbeat rhythms of ‘Señorita’ and the introspective ‘Jo Tum Pass Ho’, SMG bares his soul, inviting us to connect with his music on a personal level. He also shares how his early struggles with a speech delay led him to discover the power of rap and, ultimately, his unique voice as a singer-songwriter.
SMG's debut album ‘ARZU’ is a testament to his growth as an artist and a person. With its diverse range of sounds and heartfelt lyrics, ‘ARZU’ is sure to resonate with listeners from all walks of life. If you're looking for music that speaks to your soul and inspires you to embrace your own journey of self-discovery, then look no further than SMG's ‘ARZU’.
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