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Bollywood Celebrities Who Ventured into Music Production: Bollywood is a dynamic industry where talent surpasses boundaries. While most actors and filmmakers focus on their craft in front of the camera or behind it, some have explored the world of music beyond just singing and dancing.
A select group of Bollywood celebrities have taken their passion for music to the next level by stepping into music production, launching record labels, curating soundtracks, and even composing music.
Their involvement has not only enriched the industry but also showcased their versatility. Let’s take a look at some Bollywood stars who have successfully ventured into music production and how they have shaped the Indian music industry.
1. Farhan Akhtar
Farhan Akhtar is known for his versatility as an actor, director, writer, and singer. His love for music was evident when he lent his voice to hit songs in Rock On!! and its sequel.
However, Farhan’s contribution to music goes beyond singing; he co-founded Excel Entertainment, which has been instrumental in curating unique soundtracks for films like Dil Chahta Hai, Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara, and Rock On!!.
Additionally, he launched Farout Media, a platform dedicated to managing music rights and helping independent artists monetize their work, further promoting non-film music in India.
2. Priyanka Chopra Jonas
Priyanka Chopra Jonas is not just a celebrated actress but also a global music artist. After venturing into international music with singles like In My City and Exotic, she established her own music production venture, Purple Pebble Pictures, which has supported regional music and independent artists.
Her passion for nurturing new talent has led to collaborations with international music producers, further bridging the gap between Bollywood and global music industries.
3. Amitabh Bachchan
Amitabh Bachchan has been an integral part of Bollywood’s musical evolution, lending his deep, resonant voice to numerous songs. Beyond singing, he has actively participated in music production through his company AB Corp Ltd., which has contributed to the creation of memorable film soundtracks, including Paa and Bbuddah Hoga Terra Baap. His influence ensures high-quality music remains a crucial aspect of his film productions.
4. Salman Khan
Salman Khan’s production house, Salman Khan Films (SKF), has played a key role in shaping Bollywood music trends. His movies, including Bajrangi Bhaijaan, Sultan, and Dabangg, have featured chart-topping soundtracks. Additionally, Salman himself has dabbled in singing, recording hit numbers like Main Hoon Hero Tera and Jumme Ki Raat.
His music production ventures often collaborate with leading composers to create mass-appealing Bollywood hits. In 2015, he expanded his production house to include a music division, SKF Music, which focuses on selecting and producing blockbuster Bollywood tracks.
5. A.R. Rahman
Though primarily a composer, A.R. Rahman has stepped into music production with his own label, KM Musiq, and his production studio. His company supports independent musicians, blending technology with musical creativity.
Through projects like 99 Songs, a musical drama he produced, Rahman has shown how music production can be integrated into film storytelling, bringing an innovative approach to Bollywood soundtracks. Additionally, Ideal Entertainment, another of Rahman’s ventures, merges music with storytelling in films and documentaries.
6. Himesh Reshammiya
Himesh Reshammiya started as a music composer but soon expanded his role by producing his own music albums and launching Himesh Reshammiya Melodies, a music production company that gives opportunities to budding artists.
He has used his platform to launch new singers, keeping Bollywood’s music scene vibrant and diverse. His commitment to producing new music rather than just composing sets him apart in the industry.
7. Shraddha Kapoor
Shraddha Kapoor has always had a deep love for music, as evident in her singing performances in films like Aashiqui 2 and Ek Villain. She has taken this passion further by investing in music production ventures, collaborating with independent artists, and supporting new-age music projects. Her involvement in behind-the-scenes music production is helping independent musicians get a bigger platform.
8. Ayushmann Khurrana
Ayushmann Khurrana is well known for his melodious voice and meaningful song selections. Apart from acting and singing, he has started working on producing his own music, focusing on independent music outside of Bollywood film soundtracks.
His self-produced singles, including Mitti Di Khushboo and Chan Kitthan, have been widely appreciated, proving that he has an ear for quality music production.
9. Sonu Nigam
Sonu Nigam is one of Bollywood’s most celebrated singers, but he is also actively involved in music production. He has produced his own albums and worked on background scores for various projects. His independent record label, Nigam Music, provides a platform for aspiring musicians, allowing fresh talent to thrive in the music industry.
10. Vishal-Shekhar
The composer duo Vishal Dadlani and Shekhar Ravjiani have been an integral part of Bollywood’s music landscape. They launched their own music label, which focuses on collaborations, independent releases, and music production for various projects beyond films.
Their label supports indie artists and pushes the boundaries of Bollywood music with experimental and diverse sounds.
The Impact of Bollywood Celebrities in Music Production
The involvement of Bollywood celebrities in music production has significantly impacted the Indian music industry in multiple ways:
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Encouraging Independent Artists: With actors and singers investing in music production, independent artists are getting a platform to showcase their talent outside of traditional Bollywood film soundtracks.
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Diversification of Music Styles: Many celebrities experiment with fusion genres, blending Bollywood sounds with Western influences, indie styles, and electronic music.
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More Control Over Creative Process: Celebrities involved in music production have greater control over the kind of music they create, ensuring authenticity and artistic freedom.
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Revival of Old Music: Some celebrities use their platforms to bring back retro melodies, revamping them with modern arrangements.
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Bridging Bollywood with International Music: With artists like Priyanka Chopra collaborating with global music producers, Bollywood music is reaching international audiences, creating a cultural exchange between different musical traditions.
Content Writer – Gaurika Sharma