I've always respected film music, but for me, independent music is where truth lives: Rubal Sikka
New York-based singer, songwriter, and producer Rubal Sikka has teamed up with UK rap star Raxstar for his track, Haan Di. Themed around heartache and resilience, it resonates with those navigating the complexity of emotions like love, loss, and personal growth.
'Collaborating with Raxstar again was a pleasure.," says Rubal, adding, "We've worked together before on Pearls, and the chemistry has always been effortless. He brings such a strong lyrical presence, and his ability to fuse depth with swagger really elevated the track. We both bring different influences — me from New York, him from the UK — and that contrast adds a lot of flavor. We've got mutual respect for each other's craft, and that makes the process smooth and creatively fulfilling.
'
Excerpts from a conversation with Rubal.
Q: You've been around the music space for a while now. How's the Punjabi music industry evolving?
It's evolving beautifully. Growing up in the U.S, Punjabi music was my link to identity—it played in the background at weddings, in the car with family, everywhere. Back then, it felt more like a niche. Now, it's global. Artists are pushing boundaries, fusing traditional sounds with hip-hop, drill, R&B—you name it.
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What's really powerful is the rise of independent voices. You don't need a label to be heard anymore.
As someone navigating both cultures, it's exciting to see Punjabi music breaking language barriers and resonating worldwide.
Q: How did your collab come about with Raxstar?
It was all energy and mutual respect. I've followed Raxstar since my teenage years—he's always had this rawness and clarity in his lyrics that I connected with.
When I wrote Haan Di, I knew it needed someone who could add that lyrical punch but still keep the emotion intact. I sent it to him, he felt it instantly, and we built it from there. Growing up in the diaspora, these kinds of cross-cultural collabs mean more—we're telling shared stories in different accents, and that's powerful.
Q: Do you have plans for any more collabs in the future?
Absolutely. I'm working with a mix of artists—some from the U.S.,
some from India, and even a few from the UK scene. My goal is always to blend energy, not just names. Being raised here, I've always had multiple influences—Punjabi at home, hip-hop outside—and I want my music to reflect that duality. So the upcoming collabs will definitely lean into that hybrid sound. Some emotional, some for the clubs—but all from the heart.
Q: In your opinion, what is the difference between the role of independent music vis-à-vis film music?
I've always respected film music—it's shaped generations. But for me, independent music is where truth lives. Growing up here, I didn't always see my story in Bollywood songs. Independent music gave me a way to express my perspective without fitting into a pre-written script. It's more vulnerable, more personal. And now, indie artists are reaching millions without middlemen. It's changing the whole landscape.
I think both spaces have their place, but indie music is the soul of this generation.
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