Feb 2024

This is Madame Gandhi - an incredible Forbes 30 under 30 musician (2019), the first digital analyst for Interscope Records, and an activist who inspires changemaking through music! Check out her release “Top Knot Turn Up”, where she blends trap and EDM into a song that uplifts women. She also uses innovative methods, like sampling and incorporating the sounds of melting glaciers in her music, to increase environmental awareness. 

You have such varied accomplishments in academics, advocacy, and music. What motivates you - what’s your driving force in all of these endeavors?

I like to optimize for joy. I move from a space of enthusiasm, I bring love to what I do, and then I find myself non-attached to the outcome, simply because I enjoyed doing it anyway. This applies to my running and boxing, my yoga and spirituality, and of course, my music. I find when I derive energy and positivity from different experiences it enriches my music further, rather than me being a single faceted musician. 

In what ways do you believe your creation of conscious music leads to progression in the music industry as well as societal change?

I find that music and lyrics are like mantras, the more we sing back something the more it subconsciously affirms a behavior. I think it’s really important to use music as a message, so I thoughtfully program lyrics that I think are beneficial to my audience.

As artists from underrepresented backgrounds, what should we keep in mind as we work in such a rapidly evolving industry?

I think that we all need to help each other regardless of our social identity. I have created a lot of goodwill in the music industry - anytime I’ve wanted something in the, I start with something that I could offer and contribute, rather than asking for what I could take. In this way, we step into our own power as minorities in the industry, and we paint a different picture for the next generation.

I’m also curious about your use of the color yellow. We can’t miss the vibrant pops of yellow in your outfits, your music videos, and your album covers! What personal meaning does this color hold for you; in what ways is it powerful? 

My name is Kiran, which means ‘ray of light’ in Hindi. I try to optimize bringing delight and light to all scenarios, especially my music. When I am off-balance, or in a difficult mood, I try to make sure that I do restorative activities, like rest, eating well, movement, meditation and activities that spark joy, so that I can come back to myself. Yellow represents this positivity, joy, and warmth in my life. So I enjoy wearing the color, decorating my spaces with it, and adorning my music brand with it. 

Lastly, what is the one piece of advice you would give to aspiring female-identifying creatives, or you wish someone had given to you?

My advice will always be to optimize for your own joy. The industry has so many external highs and lows. Unless we bring great love and consistency to what we do, it can be a very emotionally turbulent industry. We are constantly being judged and criticized, not only by our internal voices but also by others. If you want to play the long game, lead with love, lead with discipline, and keep giving to your craft, because that is the greatest way that we can be of service.