Close your eyes and picture this: sunlight dappling through leaves, their gentle rustle a counterpoint to the gurgling melody of a nearby stream, and in the distance, a waterfall crashes, vibrating through the ground you stand on. These are the ancient sounds of nature, a feeling words can often fail to describe. Music, much like nature, possesses this same evocative power \u2014\u00a0the ability to stir emotions and inspire action. It is this intrinsic connection that Grammy-winning musician Ricky Kej celebrates and harnesses through his Rhythm of the Earth concert series, a collaboration with The Leela Palaces Hotels and Resorts.<\/p>\n
Set against the backdrop of The Leela\u2019s properties, the series promises a unique blend of music, visuals, and a message of environmental responsibility. The concerts will unfold across four cities \u2014 Bengaluru, Chennai, Udaipur, and Jaipur \u2014 beginning on June 22. At the heart of this initiative is Ricky, who has been a fervent advocate for sustainability and social responsibility. His journey from a commercial composer to a globally acclaimed environmentalist and musician is as compelling as the causes he champions.<\/p>\n
Reflecting on his early career, he recalls the pressures of creating music for commercials and television. \u201cCreating music for commercials and television was about technical accuracy and deadlines. It was high-pressure work, but it was steady,\u201d he says over the phone from Bengaluru. \u201cBack then, it was all about money and meeting client expectations.\u201d Over 14 years, he composed more than 3,500 pieces, driven by the demands of clients and the pursuit of perfection.<\/p>\n
For the love of music<\/h4>\n
Today, his motivations have shifted dramatically. His music is now a medium for expressing his deep-seated beliefs and passions, particularly concerning nature and sustainability. \u201cThe music I create now is what I believe in and want to communicate to the world. I make music when I\u2019m motivated, and when I\u2019m not feeling it, I don\u2019t force it,\u201d he explains. This authentic approach has enabled him to connect with audiences more profoundly, using music as a vehicle for change.<\/p>\n
Ricky\u2019s schedule remains hectic, with an impressive 77 concerts in 17 countries last year alone. Yet, he is able to find his muse. \u201cThese quiet moments of inspiration happen in unexpected places. Nature walks and exploratory trips are great, but I also find peace on airplanes, especially long flights,\u201d he shares. \u201cAnother surprising source of inspiration is post-concert nights. The adrenaline is still high on these occasions, and sleep is nearly impossible. I travel with a portable studio \u2014 a small keyboard, computer, and headphones. So, those restless nights in hotel rooms become songwriting sessions.\u201d<\/p>\n
This unorthodox approach to creativity perfectly aligns with the ethos of Rhythm of the Earth. The concert series, promises an immersive audio-visual experience that highlights environmental and social themes. \u201cThe Rhythm of the Earth concert series is not just about entertaining the audience. It\u2019s about leaving them with a lasting message,\u201d emphasises Ricky. The events feature sustainability-focused menus and d\u00e9cor\u00a0that reflect social responsibility, embodying The Leela\u2019s commitment to environmental causes.<\/p>\n
The visual component of Ricky\u2019s concerts is meticulously crafted to complement his music. \u201cWe have a dedicated team who travels the world filming incredible footage.\u201d For instance, a song dedicated to the Ganges is accompanied by visuals depicting the river\u2019s journey from the Gangotri glacier to the Bay of Bengal. \u201cThese evocative visuals play in the background while we perform, creating a powerful multi-sensory experience.\u201d <\/p>\n
Ricky\u2019s dedication to environmental causes extends beyond his music. He is a staunch advocate for children\u2019s rights, a commitment reflected in his support for the Kailash Satyarthi Children\u2019s Foundation (KSCF) through the concert series. \u201cChildren\u2019s rights are a cause I\u2019ve cared about for a while. Since 2018, I\u2019ve been a high-profile supporter of UNICEF.\u201d His admiration for Kailash Satyarthi, whom he met in 2018, solidified his resolve. \u201cEnvironmental issues can\u2019t be solved in isolation. Poverty is a huge barrier. That\u2019s where Kailash Satyarthi\u2019s work comes in \u2014 tackling fundamental issues such as child slavery and child protection.\u201d<\/p>\n
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<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\nMusic and activism<\/h4>\n
Music, according to him, is a potent tool for activism. \u201cMusic is a universal language, a powerful tool that can evoke emotions and inspire action.\u201d <\/p>\n
\u201cWe face many challenges on our planet, from climate change and pollution to social issues including child rights, poverty, and malnutrition. The biggest threat is apathy. We wait for governments or leaders to take action. But real change starts with individual behaviour.\u201d <\/p>\n
That is where music comes in, says Ricky. \u201cSure, scientific data is important, but it doesn\u2019t change mindsets. Artists can translate complex ideas into the emotional language of music, reaching people\u2019s hearts and souls.\u201d<\/p>\n
According to him, there are two approaches to environmental activism \u2014 the David Attenborough approach, which focuses on showcasing the splendour of the natural world, and the Greta Thunberg approach, which emphasises the urgency of climate action due to human impact. While recognising the value of both methods, he gravitates towards the former. \u201cI focus on the beauty of the natural world,\u201d he explains, \u201cshowing people the wonders we stand to lose. The idea is to inspire a sense of awe and appreciation for nature, hopefully leading people to protect it. We protect what we love and can only love what we understand.\u201d<\/p>\n
As Rhythm of the Earth prepares to enchant audiences across four cities, Ricky\u2019s vision remains clear. \u201cThis concert series is more than just music. It\u2019s a powerful force for good, a reminder that real change starts with individual behaviour,\u201d he says.<\/p>\n
For more information about the concert series, visit theleela.com<\/i><\/p>\n<\/div>\n