Meet Rythum Shastri

We had the good fortune of connecting with Rythum Shastri and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Rythum, do you have a favorite quote or affirmation?
Beethoven once famously said, “To play a wrong note is insignificant; to play without passion is inexcusable.” This quote has had a profound impact on my life and career. Surviving in the competitive music industry can be challenging, but my passion always inspires and drives me forward. When you are deeply passionate about something, the universe starts to create possibilities for your success.

As a singer, songwriter, performer, and audio engineer, my passion is my daily motivation. It inspires me to wake up every day and live for the gifts I’ve been given. As a singer, I have always felt a deep connection with the almighty, and I strive to share that connection with my audience through soulful music. This quote reminds me that while technical perfection is important, it’s the passion and emotion behind the music that truly resonates with people and makes a lasting impact.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My art is a blend of Indian Classical music, Bollywood melodies, Sufi music, and contemporary sounds. As a singer, songwriter, performer, and audio engineer, I strive to create a unique musical experience that resonates deeply with my audience. What sets me apart is my ability to seamlessly merge traditional Indian music with modern genres, crafting a sound that is both nostalgic and fresh.

My journey to where I am today has been a mix of passion, perseverance, and continuous learning. Growing up in a musical family in Surat, India, my father, a Sufi singer, was my first inspiration. Watching him perform ignited my own aspirations to be on stage. However, the path was not easy. The pandemic was a particularly challenging period, but it also taught me the value of patience and relentless effort. During this time, I focused on improving my vocal skills and seeking new opportunities.

Attending the Musicians Institute in Hollywood was a turning point. There, I honed my skills as an audio engineer, learning from Grammy Award-winning instructors. This technical expertise has been crucial in shaping my career, allowing me to work with indie bands and production companies and perform at numerous live concerts.

I am most proud of my achievements and the recognitions I’ve received for my contributions to the community. I have been felicitated by notable dignitaries, including Congresswoman Michelle Steel, Sharon Quirk-Silva from the California State Assembly, the Mayor of Artesia City, and many more, both in the United States and worldwide.

Through my organization, The Garba Social, I continue to promote traditional Indian music and celebrate cultural festivals in the U.S. Our events bring together people from diverse backgrounds, fostering a sense of community and cultural pride.

My story is a testament to the fact that it is possible to make a full-time career out of music. It takes a lot of patience and hard work, but if you are truly passionate, it is possible. I want to share my journey with young music aspirants, showing them that with dedication and perseverance, they too can achieve their dreams.

In essence, my brand and story are about bridging cultures through music, preserving traditions, and inspiring the next generation. I want the world to know that music is not just entertainment for me; it’s a powerful medium to heal, unite, and bring joy to people’s lives.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Here are some places that can be explored –

Griffith Observatory
Hollywood Walk of Fame
Malibu
Hilltop Park in Signal Hill
West Hollywood bars and clubs
Huntington Beach
Topanga
Laguna Beach
Hollywood Sign Hike
Venice Beach
Santa Monica Pier
Beverly Hills (Rodeo Drive)
Getty Villa
Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA)
The Broad Museum
Universal Studios Hollywood
The Grove and Original Farmers Market
Downtown LA (including Grand Central Market, The Last Bookstore, and Arts District)
Griffith Park and Los Angeles Zoo
Catalina Island (day trip)
Disneyland (day trip)
Malibu Wine Safari
Watts Towers

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I want to dedicate this story to my father, who has been a great inspiration to me not only as a musician but also as a human being. His guidance and support have been invaluable in my journey.

I also want to express my deep appreciation for my “Gurus” – my teachers – who have imparted knowledge and wisdom that I can never fully repay. Their teachings have been fundamental in shaping my career and personal growth.

Lastly, I want to recognize all my fellow musicians and bandmates. Their hard work and dedication have played a crucial role in our collective success. Our achievements are a testament to our teamwork and shared passion for music.

Website: https://rythumshastri.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rythum_shastri/?hl=en

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rythum-shastri-b2a408249/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rythum.shastri?mibextid=LQQJ4d

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@rythumshastri1963