Famous as DJ Zenith globally, Harshit Agarwal is a known face in the electronic dance music circuit (EDM), both, in India and internationally. Having started his career in 2014, this talented DJ, from Jaipur, took the EDM music scene by storm within a short span of time. His love for music introduced him to the field, but it was his multi-faceted persona and zeal to venture into different genres that landed him Hindi music projects too. His blend of Hindi music EDM beats was noteworthy. Besides, the youngster, who recently released the song, Junglee with his music mate Charan, for Bacardi House Party Sessions, writes songs as well as produces music. His latest song, Kho Gaye not only trended at number one position on Tik Tok, but was also featured on various music charts like Apple Music’s – Top Pop Music and Saavn’s – Pop Essentials.
In an exclusive interview with Radioandmusic, Zenith talks about his musical journey, choosing EDM, his music mate Charan, projects, and more.Excerpts.
Has music always been your passion?
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During school days I used to listen to a lot of different music. As I grew up, I started playing around with software called FL Studio and slowly my interest shifted from studies to music. It was at this point that I decided to do what moved me – music. However, I still had to complete my education, which I did, while focusing on music.
Which means music happened organically to you?
When I was starting out, Steve Aoki, one of my idols, played my song, Rumble on the main stage of Tomorrowland – one of the biggest EDM festivals in the world held in Belgium. It was around the same time that I met my manager, Arjun Shah, and started my journey with Shark and Ink (an entertainment agency).
Why did you choose EDM?
When I started dabbling in music, EDM was one of the most popular genres out there, so it was always nice to be creating music for an audience that was so receptive to the genre. I’ve also been producing Hindi music for different labels for quite some time now. Since last year, I’ve started to move in a different direction where I find myself writing and producing music in Hindi, and that’s how Junglee was born.
Tell us more about ‘Junglee’.
The music video explores the professional dynamics between a Madari (master) and his monkey. The monkey and his master dance to a different tune when they hear, Junglee, reversing the roles in their relationship. Overnight, they become sensations, eventually discovering that they were twins all along.
Benny Dayal helped us create an edgy, offbeat sound. The unique rhythm combined with the unconventional storytelling in the video, made it one of my best works.
How was your association with Bacardí House Party Sessions?
When I found out that Junglee was going to be the next anthem of Bacardí House Party Sessions, I was thrilled that my track was going to be featured on a platform that has been the springboard for some of the biggest hits in last two years. It was an even bigger honour to be mentored by someone as talented as Benny Dayal, who is such an incredible musician and, personally, one of my favourite performers.
You have also written songs. Any plans of exploring songwriting?
I’m a full time music producer and DJ, but songwriting is something I’m still getting the hang of. Collaborating with other artists and especially with Charan on Junglee has really helped me hone my songwriting skills. However, I continue to work towards being able to write my own songs from start to finish.
You have performed at many international festivals with renowned music producers like Alan Walker. How has the experience been so far?
All the credit goes to Shark and Ink for getting me to those stages. They have given me so much exposure and it’s been a great learning experience. Meeting and performing with globally renowned artists has really built my confidence and it’s helped me to better understand the music industry dynamics. I’ve been able to build a strong network because of the different opportunities I’ve had, and that’s what brings work to my door every day and helps me grow.
What is the current state of EDM?
Right now, EDM isn’t as big as it was a couple of years ago. People are now consuming lot of pop music. I believe it is important for a musician to be able to connect with their audience. That’s how I’ve found myself expanding the boundaries of conventional EDM music and exploring other genres.
Any advice for budding EDM musicians?
EDM is a great genre and if that’s your passion, then go for it. To budding musicians in general, I’d say do what moves you. Be it EDM music or anything for that matter, go for it and never stop. You’ve got a long road ahead of you, which has a lot of self-discovery involved. So make music for the right reasons and stay true to it, it’ll take you far.
What’s next for you?
I have about six-seven songs in the pipeline, each song expressing my story in some way or the other. While some of them will be independent releases, others like Junglee will be in collaboration with brands. Apart from the singles, I am also working on a seven track album, which I’m really excited about.
