NYVC Singer Spotlight: Radhika Agarwal

How did you discover your passion for singing?

The Arts in general are something I was always passionate about. I danced for a bit when I was kid and also took art classes. With singing, I always sang during occasions and celebrations in my society where we stayed - that's how it started. From there on my father, Vikash, had a big role to play in getting me into proper training as he saw potential in my voice when I was too young to see it myself. When I was 10, he enrolled me into a music academy where I began my singing journey with Hindustani Classical music.

What’s something recent or exciting in your singing journey?

If i were to talk about recently I'd say there's so many things. I'm learning more and more about who I am and who I want to be, which has directly reflected in my singing journey- as singing is a huge part of me. I'm stepping into a completely new genre which I've discovered is truly my passion at the moment - metal music! It's a big step for me as I'm stepping into a completely new ball game there - but thats what makes it all the more exciting.

 What is an interesting or funny fact about you?

I absolutely love System Of A Down and baking unique cakes.

What led you to studying at NYVC?

The credit for this would again go to my father. We realised early on that I would flourish in Western music. After learning Indian classical music for 3 years we finally decided it was time for a change - into Western this time! And thats how we came across New York Vocal Coaching which was discovered by my dad online. Then we sat down to finalize things and my dad and I took a liking for Andy as my teacher- so my journey with NYVC started from there on.

Who or what are your biggest musical influences?

If we were to talk about influence - I'm simply an absorber. Whether it be a pop star or a Rock star, I have taken inspiration from every single artist whose music I've listened to since I was a teen. And being indian , I have often been compared to legends we have here too! Usha Uttup is one I'm often compared with.

Other than that my main inspirations currently are mostly rock or metal vocalists - Gerard Way, Serj Tankian, Emily Armstrong. And some classics like Freddie Mercury and Michael Jackson of course! Each genre, artist and style has something different and exciting to offer in its own way which I'm super into.

What styles of music do you sing?

I would say anything and everything; I believe in learning as many styles as possible. And I'm still exploring. Over the years I've sang in different languages, different genres and music by different kinds of artists.

My journey already became diverse when I went from being a classical singer to doing Western Vocal. I dabble in opera every now and then to challenge myself and my range. I grew up with profound love for jazz which I'm still exploring. I have never truly limited myself to one style or genre of music till now. And I'm quite big on Metal and Rock and Roll.

What is one piece of advice you’d love all singers to know?

There is so much that can be said as even I have learnt numerous, countless things over the years. Put faith in yourself, try and understand your voice, and remember no one can understand it better than you! It's a big part of you so be kind to it and treat it with love.

And as for technique and learning , know that when they say practice makes perfect it's really true. You may struggle in the beginning but remember you can't be good without being bad at it sometimes initially. So learn to be comfortable in not only your good but also your bad. Whether you're starting from scratch or already pretty good , I promise with practice you'll always get there!

And most importantly- have fun. Don't stay in you head too long because you'll get there.

What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced as an artist?

I think I've had to deal with multiple challenging things over the years. I have a deeper voice which was initially a little damaged from being pushed without proper technique, so opening it up and making it flexible took some time. My head voice and falsetto were also pretty weak, but i got there and still am. it's a success in progress as I like to say.

Lots of credit to my Vocal coach Andy for this - I wouldn't have been able to do it without him.

I had a hard time believing in myself at 14 when I started and he helped greatly. Since then when we've come a long way. Learning to be more confident and sure of myself has impacted the way I am able to conduct myself and my stage performance for sure which has been a blast.

What has been your greatest victory as an artist?

My biggest victory as an artist will always be being celebrated, recognised and loved in whatever capacity I am in now, and whatever capacity I will be in the future. No achievement is greater than being seen and heard the way I am for my art especially by my friends and family.

My biggest goal as a singer is to be able to move people , add energy to a room, connect with people and enjoy - as art and especially music, is meant to.

Where can people find more about you and your music?

You can email me at radhika.ag0501@gmail.com