Forging New Paths: Empowering South Asian Voices in Global Music
Pioneering a Platform for South Asian Talent
Dialled In, a prominent cultural platform dedicated to South Asian arts, has recently unveiled its latest initiative: Dialled In Records. This new London-based music label signifies a significant step forward in its mission to support and promote South Asian artists across the globe. Through a strategic alliance with The Collective, an A&R entrepreneurial imprint under Universal Music Group U.K.'s Island-EMI, the label is poised to become a vital force in the music industry.
Introducing the Inaugural Artists: A Blend of Global and Regional Sounds
The label's initial artist roster features two compelling acts that embody its diverse vision. Ahadadream, one of Dialled In's co-founders, brings a rich background from Karachi and the UK, having already garnered recognition on the British music scene and collaborated with major artists like Skrillex on his debut single "Bass Dhol." Joining him is Excise Dept, a multidisciplinary collective hailing from New Delhi and Mumbai, known for their innovative fusion of experimental electronic music with South Asian cultural elements, expressed through singing and rapping in various regional languages. Their inclusion highlights the label's dedication to showcasing talent from the subcontinent, not solely focusing on artists within the diaspora.
A Vision Built on Cultural Foundations and Unwavering Commitment
Dhruva Balram, a co-founder of Dialled In, articulated that the launch of this record label is the culmination of five years of dedicated effort in building a robust infrastructure encompassing live events, touring, and artist development. He emphasized that this is more than just the debut of a label; it is a profound declaration of what can be achieved when cultural authenticity guides the creation process, supported by the right individuals who refuse to compromise on their artistic integrity and vision.
Challenging Perceptions and Fostering Global Recognition
Callum Ross, A&R director at The Collective, who himself has Indian heritage, expressed his enthusiasm for Dialled In's progressive approach to contemporary South Asian music. He noted that their perspective is invigorating, effectively challenging and dismantling existing stereotypes. Nicola Spokes, managing director of The Collective at Island-EMI, lauded Dialled In's comprehensive range and its focus on artist development, highlighting their deep commitment to identifying, cultivating, and propelling artists onto the international stage, calling the label's launch a truly exceptional moment for the industry.
A Legacy of Cultural Impact and Community Engagement
Founded by a group of South Asian entrepreneurs, curators, and music professionals, Dialled In has cultivated a strong presence in the UK's South Asian arts and culture landscape over the past half-decade. Their programming has extended to prestigious institutions such as Glastonbury, the Barbican, and the V&A, alongside numerous grassroots venues, demonstrating their broad impact and influence within the cultural sphere.
Celebrating a Milestone: The Fifth Birthday Festival
The official celebration of the label's inception will coincide with the Dialled In 5th Birthday Festival on May 30th. This all-day event, spanning eight venues across Dalston, is anticipated to draw approximately 3,000 attendees and will feature an impressive lineup of international South Asian artists, marking a vibrant milestone for the platform and its new musical endeavor.
