Harpi Gill’s latest track has garnered over 10 millions views. The singer speaks with SHALINI SAKSENA about her journey, among other things
What is Suit Sandal about?
The song is inspired by the innocent conversation between couples coming from varied backgrounds and a modern take on relationship dynamics. The song is bound to create a feeling of relatability as one-sided love with someone you can't have is a common sight now a days. The song was created with the aim of uplifting your mood so it has peppy beats, a slow tempo, playful tune and catchy lyrics that get people singing the song on loop.
From Harpreet to Harpi Gill, how did that happen?
I did my first duet with Raj Brar sahibji and during the creation of that song he gave me the name Harpi and it caught on. I was so grateful for the opportunity to work with him so early on in my career that I decided to stay with the name.
How did your musical journey begin?
I got interested in music when I was in Class III and started singing at school functions and competitions. My family was extremely supportive of me so when I decided to pursue a diploma in music. During my diploma, I experimented with different singing styles and found a style that suited me best. I got associated with White Hill Music about two years back. That is when I got my first few hits through Punjabi movies like Muklawa and Ardab Mutiyaran where I playbacked. Considering I got so much love from the audience for my work, I released my first single, Lethal Jatti that garnered over 54 million views on YouTube and then made Suit Sandal that has received over 10 million views. I hope I continue to entertain larger audiences through my music.
Was it tough to release a song during the pandemic?
There were many apprehensions. However, I got a lot of support from the team. It was rough but at the end of the day, I believe that as artists, it is our responsibility to help our audience and fan base connect with themselves, and face challenges with a positive attitude. Knowing that the song would cheer up people who would listen, we were convinced that this was the most appropriate time to launch the song.
How did you end up collaborating with While Hill Music?
I ended up meeting with people at White Hill Music, when I was still finding my footing in the industry. They had very specific needs that cater to their audience, so I had to work hard to get recognised by the label during the initial days. Once they liked what I had to offer and we came to understand each other’s expectations and started to working together.
Why are all your songs sad?
Songs have always been a way to emote a wide range of sentiments. I do have a few songs that are sad, but most of my recent ones are quite peppy. As an artist we have to showcase a wide range of emotions, basically personifying what our audiences want to feel at a given point. I try to do justice to whatever emotion the song is trying to portray — sad, peppy or romantic.
How tough was it to make space for yourself?
I am fortunate enough to say that this industry has been extremely kind to me. Despite not having any prior connection to the music world, the Punjabi music industry offered me ample opportunities to win hearts on merit.
What next?
I am working on a couple of projects simultaneously, but the one I can talk about as of now is a duet single with Kamal Khaira that would soon be launched on White Hill Music.
