Energy of Bengaluru Truly Inspiring, Says Ricky Kej on BLR Airport Anthem
What was your creative process like when crafting the anthem, and how did you draw inspiration from your personal connection to BLR Airport?
The anthem captures the essence of BLR Airport, a fusion of modernity and Karnataka's rich heritage. As a musician who spends a lot of time in airports, I find the energy of BLR truly inspiring. Having flown in and out countless times, it always feels like a homecoming—a place with warmth and a sense of welcome, serving as a gateway to the world. This anthem is not only a reflection of my experiences but also of Bangalore and the journeys that begin and end at the airport.
How did you aim to capture the diverse emotions and experiences of travelers in the anthem, and what do you hope listeners take away from the track?
BLR Airport has a whirlwind of energy that is reflected in the diverse set of passengers you encounter at both terminals. Every time I walk through those doors, I'm struck by the sheer diversity of people; it is a melting pot of hopes, dreams, and goodbyes. This is exactly what I wanted to capture in the anthem. The anthem celebrates the beautiful culmination of human experiences that flow through the airport every day.
For the listeners, I hope the anthem evokes a sense of wonder about the world and the people in it. Perhaps it sparks a memory of a cherished trip, or it ignites the desire to explore new horizons.
Can you walk us through your collaboration with Lonnie Park on the anthem's performance, and what makes this track special?
Lonnie and I have been collaborating for some time now; he brings an incredible soulful energy to our work, while my music integrates various cultural influences. Lonnie had visited BLR Airport and was amazed by its unique beauty, features, art, and the overall look of the terminal. During one of our casual conversations, I mentioned the composition to him, and he was keen to sing it because of the fond memories he had of the airport. Lonnie recorded the song in New York and shared it with me, and the rest is history. For us, this anthem holds a special place in our musical journey, and it is especially close to my heart since Bengaluru is my home.
Picture Courtesy : By arrangement
How does this project align with your artistic vision and values, and what drew you to this unique collaboration with BLR Airport?
As a musician, I've always been driven to create music that transcends borders and cultures, reflecting a deep desire to connect people through the universal language of music. The anthem embodies this vision perfectly, but it also carries a personal connection for me—Bengaluru is my home, and the airport there always feels like a second home. Having spent countless hours traveling the world to share my music, composing this anthem felt like a way to give back to a place that has given me so much.
What do you hope this anthem will mean to the people of Bengaluru and beyond, and how do you see it becoming a part of the cultural fabric of the city?
As a musician, I’ve always believed in the power of music to connect and evoke emotions. For the people of Bengaluru, I hope this anthem serves as a reminder of the city’s potential. BLR Airport stands as a testament to our growth, our connection to the world, and the exciting future we’re building.
Beyond Bengaluru, I aspire for this anthem to become a symbol of the city. When people hear it, I want them to envision the energy, warmth, and boundless opportunities that await them here. My goal for this piece —born from my experiences in this city and at this airport—to become a significant part of its cultural narrative.
