The Indian Performing Right Society Ltd. (IPRS) and the Korean Music Copyright Association (KOMCA) are delighted to celebrate the success of KOLAB, the Indo-Korean Music Collaboration Programme, which concluded with an exclusive listening session on November 13th in Andheri, Mumbai. In a vibrant gathering of notable industry figures and distinguished guests, the audience came together to celebrate the emerging artists of KOLAB. They were given an exclusive first listen to the incredible songs crafted during the KOLAB songwriting camp, experiencing firsthand the creative magic and unique collaboration that unfolded. The event provided an unparalleled platform for the artists to showcase some of their finest, collaboratively crafted songs, blending Indian and Korean musical elements in ways that captivated the audience. This unique experience fostered exposure and potential career growth for the artists, whose compositions left a lasting impression on the distinguished audience of industry leaders.
From November 6th to 12th, 2024, at the True School of Music, Vijaybhoomi University, Jamrung, 19 music creators from India and South Korea, collaborated to produce cross-cultural compositions. Through immersive sessions on songwriting, composition, and production, they blended Indian and Korean influences to create vibrant, globally appealing music. Guided by leading music creators, Bunty Bains and Mayur Puri, who were the Creative Directors at the song-camp, the participants drew from their diverse cultural backgrounds and distinctive musical styles, creating music that embodies the energy of this groundbreaking cultural exchange.
Reflecting on the initiative, Mr. Mayur Puri, lyricist, screenwriter, film-director and Board Member at IPRS, shared, "KOLAB has brought young creators from India and Korea into a truly collaborative space, allowing them to express themselves freely and create something genuinely original. This initiative breaks away from commercial constraints, enabling artists to blend their unique styles and cultural roots naturally."
Kim Kibeom, Board Member KOMCA, added, "This camp has brought about a transformation for the Korean artists. It provided them with an opportunity to break away from their usual creative habits and be inspired by collaboration with Indian artists. By experiencing the diverse music styles and cultures unique to India, their artistic horizons have broadened."
Vinay Prabhakar, Dean - True School of Music, Vijaybhoomi University added, "Hosting the first edition of KOLAB at Vijaybhoomi University has been an unforgettable experience! Seven days, two nations, 19 talented artists, and a dedicated team of 35 volunteers and support staff all came together to make this debut event a remarkable success. With South Korea and India—two nations rich in culture, art, and entertainment—joining forces, KOLAB has not only led to inspiring creative outcomes but also fostered bonds that will last a lifetime.
Adding his enthusiasm, Bunty Bains, Lyricist, Composer, Producer & CEO of Bunty Bains Productions, shared, "Being part of KOLAB as Creative Director and curator of the song camp has been an incredibly rewarding experience. The artists have not only demonstrated remarkable talent but have also embraced each other's cultural influences, crafting music that beautifully blends Indian and Korean legacies.
Sharing his views, Rakesh Nigam, CEO of IPRS said, "I believe that genuine, impactful music is born from an environment where artists feel free to experiment without the pressure of producing hits. Through this relaxed, collaborative spirit, the artists have produced songs that are truly inspiring and full of promise."
KOLAB's listening session in Mumbai marked not only the culmination of this remarkable collaboration but also the beginning of new artistic partnerships between the India and South Korea. As IPRS and KOMCA continues to foster meaningful cultural exchange through such initiatives, KOLAB paved the way for emerging artists to gain recognition and build connections that elevate their music on a global stage.
