One would like to think that Goa is, and always will be the hub of live music in India. This however, has been the topic of debate amongst many a music aficionado.
What qualifies as live music? Should a ‘one man band’ be considered live entertainment? Celebrated Jazz artist Colin D’Cruz lends a perspective when he says, “A one man band is nothing but a singer crooning to pre-recorded music and should be called a 'solo singer'.” Those who give it due consideration, have Van Gogh's ear for music. Colin goes on to say, “Nowhere else in India would one find hundreds, maybe thousands of ‘live music venues’ except in Goa, where almost every second restaurant and lounge bar features music of this sort.” Sadly, this may precisely be the problem.
Even back in the 70s, when, to follow popular bands was all the rage, and the live music industry was at an all-time high in the state, performers confined themselves to mainly playing popular music and a bit of rock and roll. Original compositions were generally unheard of. The continuing taste for overly commercial music and the lack of an audience that appreciates quality entertainment means that the last few surviving musicians trying to break the mould would not be able to make the cut.
Having ascertained that there is talent, the question that arises is how best to promote this talent. Musician and sound guru Tony Fernandes opines, “There should be more encouragement for new talent at the various stage shows held all over Goa. The key to further growth is essentially the audience, who need to be more receptive and appreciative towards different genres of music.”
Another rather pressing issue with regard to the development of the up and comers, as well as the promotion of existing ones, is the dearth of platforms for them to showcase their talent. There may be all of ten possible venues in the state that promote bands on the whole.
One such venue is Art Escape in Benaulim. Darryl Noronha and Vinesh Iyer, the people behind the working of the eco resort, share some insight and explain from an organiser’s point of view, why live music may not be as much of a rage as it used to be. “Generating the funds to handle the expenditure may put a lot of venues on the back foot,” says Vinesh. “However, our planning of events is not restricted to whether or not we have sponsors. As long as we generate what is required to cover the cost of the entertainment, the show will go on,” adds Darryl.
The days of the flower power, when people could literally walk into their neighbour’s backyard and expect a quality musical act in attendance may be gone. However, local talent is once again heading in the direction of the live music industry (albeit at a snail’s pace), especially with regard to producing their original music. In the words of Lennon and McCartney, “It’s getting better all the time.”
