This popular music band is kicked about the ongoing cricket World Cup, not just because they’re ardent followers of the sport, but also ‘cos they’ve got to croon the tournament’s very own anthem - Way-o, Way-o. Sanam, India’s one-of-a-kind pop rock band has lent their voice to the anthem that has been sung by celebrated artistes from across the globe. Thrilled about their venture, the bunch of good looking and talented blokes, who are also known as India’s One Direction, (that’s quite a moniker there) spill the beans on their experience..
How did the World Cup anthem come about?
Sanam Puri - We were approached by Uber and music composer Mikey McCleary for the anthem Way-O, Way-O to cheer on fans at the World Cup 2019. We are extremely thrilled to be a part of this project. I’ve been part of several of his jingles and I really enjoy working with him. We all went into Mikey’s studio later on. It took us about an hour to understand the song and then two to three hours to record our vocal parts.
Keshav Dhanraj - Everyone recorded in their own country and sent their vocal files to Mikey and then he mixed them all together. Four of us that form Sanam stepped into Mikey’s studio in Mumbai for singing lead or backing vocals which took us about three to four hours in all. The process was very interesting and it was refreshing to hear how everyone sounded on the final track.
How excited are you guys about the World Cup?
Keshav - All four of us enjoy playing and watching cricket. Whenever we get a little time off work, we try to squeeze in a small game of cricket. Such an unpredictable game. So many small factors can change the game completely. That’s what makes it interesting. We look forward to days where we can play cricket. Now, with the World Cup coming close, India is buzzing with cricket fever.? India, England, West Indies and New Zealand are my top four teams.
Tell us your favourite World Cup memories.
Samar Puri - Cricket has always been an integral part of my life. I represented Oman’s Under 16/19 when I was in high school at Indian School Muscat (since I was born in Oman). As a band, we bonded over cricket at Keshav’s garage in Navy Nagar, Colaba. The 2011 World Cup was super special for us because it was the first one we witnessed after we moved to Mumbai from Delhi. India winning at the finals held in Wankhede Stadium was the icing on the cake.
What inspires you when making music?
Venky S - Personal growth, experiences in life, travelling, meeting people and interacting with them help us make music that is honest and relatable to people. It’s important for us to understand music trends and the way the sound of pop has changed. I love to listen to the greats in any genre to understand the stylistic excellence and trace back to the music origins of jazz, blues, gospel, soul etc. Sanam doesn’t listen to much music, but prefers instrumental classical music. Samar listens to new artistes all the time and is inspired to bring in the bits he likes from what he hears into our music so that it sounds fresh and new at the time of release, Keshav likes to stay in touch with new music programming ideas as well as watch virtuosos and talented international drummers.
You have a huge following on social media. How do you keep your fans constantly engaged ?
Keshav - The platforms have really helped us connect with fans in a more personal manner. We’ve gone live when we’ve launched a new video on YT using the YouTube Premiere feature, proceed with a live chat on Instagram and Facebook Live. I take some time to reply and appreciate the love they shower us with their sketches of us, edits of our pictures, sweet videos compilations, etc. I also stay connected with them by sharing Instagram stories and posts regarding things that are close to me - my family, my two dogs - Ghost and Nymeria, clips of performances and shoots, my fitness routine and hanging out with the guys.
What kind of music do you want to create in the future?
Sanam - 2019 is going to be important because we’re releasing a lot of music that’s close to our heart. We aim to release an album with original music by the end of the year. I’ve always loved composing my own music, so the steps we’re taking this year will help us be more prolific in the years to come. Apart from that, there will be interesting collaborations, new renditions and some surprises.
