First Indian Artist To Be Featured On Billboard Of Times Square In New York - Meet Akash Ahuja

Breaking the odds, an Indian-American artist managed to become the first Indian professional to have his own billboard in New York’s Times Square.

(File Photo/ Getty)

The iconic Times Square in New York has always been talk of the town as it stands to be one of the most famous tourist attractions in the United States. While it is one of the world's busiest pedestrian areas in Midtown Manhattan, the junction of Broadway and Seventh Avenue attracts tourists from all around the world. To have a billboard beaming at the picture-postcard epitome of New York’s city is in itself a great sense of pride and honour. Breaking the odds, an Indian-American artist, Akash Ahuja, managed to become the first Indian artist to have his own billboard in New York’s Times Square. Akash, who is a pop culture rapper, singer and a song writer who blends old and contemporary styles together, became popular with his debut song 'Come Closer' as it became an overnight success. It was streamed on multiple platforms boosting his fan base. Inspired by his latest love interest, 'Can't Let You Go' reached the top 100 songs on iTunes, making it his next big hit. While speaking to ABP Live, Akash revealed his success story and how he managed to get the desired breakthrough. Here are the excerpts of the conversation: Beginning of the artistic journey & roadblocks There was never really a clear starting point, because music has always been a part of my life said Akash adding that whether it was playing the tabla at the age of six or rapping and singing in the later phase, music was always a form of self expression. Biggest Inspiration Michael Jackson, Bob Marley, Diljit Dosanjh, Drake, John Legend, Rihanna, Billie Eilish, and many more! There are so many good artists out that I listen to daily, you can’t be afraid to try new music! Mantra to become popular Always stay true to who you are, be fearless in dabbling with new sounds, and spread love, it helps in connecting with the right people. Popularity is the goal the goal for Akash, but putting out quality material consistently for anyone who enjoys my music is what motivates him. Change in industry in last one decade There’s been a huge shift on how we listen to music. From CDs to streaming and from huge concerts to online performances. The main thing has never changed: Relatability, authenticity, and emotion are still what resonates with fans. Trend of remakes I enjoy them a lot, the more music the better. Sometimes I hear someone else’s song and it gives me a lot of ideas, so I’ll make my own remix to enjoy. They’re tons of fun and give a shout out to the original song artist. I’m all for a good remix! Covid-19 outbreak & the aftermaths There's obviously less shows, tours and live performances right now because of the health risk. That really limits the way fans and artists can interact with each other, which is the best part of the music industry. Social media has been an integral part of staying connected to new music, artists and how listeners feel about the content. We must learn to adapt and make the most of it. Next on cards The 4 L’s. Live, learn, laugh and love. Through these avenues, real inspiration comes as fuel for creativity. Through creativity comes new music which I can’t wait to share with everyone.