Singer Pramod Kharel Prioritizes Musical Quality and Satisfaction Over Commercial Aspects

Kathmandu. Singing itself is a wonderful art, and along with it, 'feel' in the song is important. In the case of singer Pramod Kharel, both these aspects come together. He sings as skillfully as he gives heartfelt 'feel' to the song. Whether it's 'Ma Bina Kasai Kasailai Hos' or 'Kina Sankaa Garchhau', 'Oye Jhumma' or 'Yo Kura Gopya'. And even if it's 'Ma Bachhe Kai' or the recently released 'Salal Karnali'. He fits into every style of song with 'feel'.

Pramod Kharel has performed on stage countless times. From the nooks and crannies of villages to grand concerts abroad, he resonates powerfully. Currently, he is not only himself but also immerses, and makes the audience dance to the emotions of the song. Recently, this 'symbol' of the stage has been trying to bring more vibrancy to his performances through his band. He has formed his own musical band named 'Pramod & Parampara'. Along with this, he has been intensely implementing his resolve. This means, currently, Pramod Kharel does not perform alone at any concert or festival; 'Pramod & Parampara' must be present there.

During an interview on the Ratopati podcast 'Talk Forward', Pramod was asked- Isn't there a risk of fewer offers coming when you say you won't perform without a live band?

His precise answer is, 'Going with a band increases expenses, management becomes difficult, and it might not be convenient on smaller stages. But right now, I prioritize musical quality and satisfaction over the commercial aspect. The future of my 8-9 team members is also tied to this.'

In a conversation lasting about an hour, Pramod shared his views not only on music but also on society, politics, and sports. When asked why he didn't enter politics, and if he has plans to enter later, he gave a very thoughtful answer. Pramod has immense passion for sports. He gets very excited about football and cricket. On the eve of the World Cup, he also shared his favorite team and how his interest in sports developed during the interview.

Here is the edited excerpt of the interview with the 'versatile' singer Pramod Kharel (detailed video can be watched and listened to):

Let's start with your newly released song 'Salal Karnali'. How was this Karnali-themed song made?

'Salal Karnali' is my special project. Currently, I am active with my band 'Pramod & Parampara'. Our band has released a new song after about a year. The main objective of naming our band 'Parampara' was to maintain our original culture and tradition while connecting it with modernity. We thought we should do original and culturally based songs along with commercial songs. This song was born as an effort to bring the typical essence of the Karnali region in a new flavor.

The co-singer of this song, Srishti Budha, is also being praised for her singing and voice. How did you meet her?

For this song, we were looking for a 'raw voice' from that region rather than a professional singer. We felt that if there was an original voice from Jumla-Humla, the song would have more vibrancy. While searching, we learned about Srishti through Honorable Gyanendra Shahi (Member of Parliament). After hearing her voice, I felt- she is the perfect fit for this song. I feel her originality has given the song a different height.

Your songs are being released frequently. But your own projects seem to be coming a bit late. Is this because music production is expensive?

I am continuously singing for others, so I don't feel a gap in my work. But it takes a bit longer to do my own solo projects. Music production is very expensive these days. It might be easier to run a movie, but the investment made in a song is unlikely to be recovered.

The digital age has arrived, which is good. But the increasing use of AI has disrupted the music industry. Anyone can copy someone's voice and create an AI version. There is no regulatory body for this. This attacks the creativity of the creators. A composer or arranger spends years practicing to create a melody, but AI copies it in an instant. This is a big challenge for our industry.

From cassettes, CDs, pen drives, we are now in the era of YouTube and TikTok. In the next five years, who knows how people will listen to songs. But one thing is certain: no matter how much technology advances, it cannot replace 'live concerts' and 'human feel'. AI might be able to replicate voices, but it cannot bring the 'feel' that comes from the heart of singers. The government should not delay in taking steps for its regulation.

The 'feel' (singing deeply immersed) found in your songs is remarkable. How deeply do you get immersed in emotions while singing at concerts or in the studio?

As I sing, the mind finds its own way. Once immersed in the melody, the words start to flow on their own. When the sound system and atmosphere are good during a stage performance, I get into a different mood. I want to share a very unforgettable moment. At a concert in Nawalparasi, while singing 'Usle Jati Maya Timlai', I saw a rose on the stage and picked it up. It had thorns, which pricked my hand and it started bleeding. But I was so immersed in the song that I didn't even feel the pain. Only after finishing the song did I see my hand was covered in blood. Later, the organizing team tied a handkerchief around my hand.

Currently, you do not perform concerts without your band. Doesn't this increase expenses and risk fewer offers?

The satisfaction I get from singing with a band is not the same as singing with tracks. There is a misconception in Nepal that bands are only for 'rock', but in reality, bands are equally essential for folk songs and bhajans. Yes, going with a band increases expenses, management becomes difficult, and it might not be convenient on smaller stages. But right now, I prioritize musical quality and satisfaction over the commercial aspect. The future of my 8-9 team members is also tied to this. We are currently in a 'bonding' and plan to refine it further.

You are known as a beloved coach on 'The Voice of Nepal'. This is because you have been a coach on all seasons of this singing reality show except one. What impact does being a coach or judge on a reality show have on your personal and musical career?

I really enjoy being a coach on 'The Voice of Nepal'. It connects me with different generations. I got the opportunity to listen to and understand genres I had never heard before. Seeing the dreams and struggles of new talents from remote areas inspires me. I might be their coach, but I have also had the opportunity to research many things from them. This has been like a great university of learning for me.

You also have a great interest in sports. You get particularly excited about football and cricket. The Football World Cup is also starting soon, which team do you support?

I have been interested in sports since childhood. If I hadn't become a singer, I probably would have been a sports commentator. I really enjoy getting updates on football and cricket.

Speaking of the Football World Cup, I was initially a fan of Brazil, but when Messi emerged, I became an Argentina fan. Messi's playing style greatly influences me. Therefore, my support is for Argentina again this time.

You also deeply analyze society and politics. Nowadays, many artists have entered politics. Some are currently in the role of MPs. Didn't you have the thought of entering politics this time?

I have been interested in politics and history since childhood. I wouldn't start studying without listening to the program 'Ghatana ra Bichar' on the radio. I can name all the governments formed after the 2046 revolution and most of the ministers. I even remember the votes of the winning candidate in Jhapa Constituency No. 1 (now Constituency No. 3) at that time. This means I was interested in political matters from a young age.

After the recent political change and the general elections, I did receive offers to become a candidate. However, I don't consider myself the right person to enter politics. Politics is not a 'side business'; it is a place to make the country's policies and shape the future of the people. One should not expect a football player to play cricket well too. My expertise lies in music, and I want to focus on that. As long as my body allows and I receive the love of the audience, I will continue my musical work.

What do you wish the government would do for the music sector?

The current Prime Minister, Balen Shah, who is leading the government, is himself a personality who understands art and music. The chairman of the ruling party also understands the nuances of this sector. I want the government to play a role in protecting the creations of artists, and for strict policies and regulations against the harm caused to creators by AI and other technologies. I want the government to create an environment where both investors and artists are secure.

Video/Photo: Manoj Khadka, Ayush Dhami/Ratopati