South Indian Music Artists You Need to Know

In recent years, South Indian music artists have been breaking boundaries, reshaping the global music scene with their unique blend of traditional sounds and contemporary influences. From hip-hop and electronic to fusion genres, these artists are gaining international acclaim and connecting with audiences worldwide. With innovative music, captivating performances, and a strong cultural influence, South Indian musicians are no longer just making waves—they are making it big.

Hanumankind
Kerala-born singer and rapper Sooraj Cherukat, known by his stage name Hanumankind, has become a global viral sensation with his latest track 'Big Dawgs.' The song is making waves across the international music scene, thanks to its electrifying energy, jaw-dropping maut ka kuan (well of death) stunts, and infectious beats. Hanumankind’s name blends the Hindu deity Hanuman with the English word 'kind,' reflecting his strong connection to his Indian heritage while striving to create a name that resonates on the global stage. Hanumankind’s career began with his performance at NH7 Weekender.

Tribemama Marykali
Indie artist Tribemama Marykali, born Anna Katharina Valayil, hails from Kerala, grew up in Nigeria, and now resides in Kochi. With her unique voice and afro-funk beats, she captured attention with her single 'Bless Yah Heels' (2021), where she performs in a traditional white and gold Kasavu sari. Onstage, her persona thrives on merging art and activism, embodying a young, defiant spirit—sassy yet serious. Through clever wordplay and wit, she empowers women and challenges societal norms. Though trained in both Western and Carnatic music styles—none of which lasted more than three months—Marykali credits MTV as her greatest teacher, shaping much of her musical journey.

Smokey the Ghost
Sumukh Mysore, better known as Smokey the Ghost, began rapping at the age of 10, long before hip-hop gained widespread popularity in India. His journey into the genre started with online rap battles on Orkut. Known for his jazzy beats and socially conscious lyrics, the Bengaluru-based rapper addresses topics ranging from Donald Trump to Syrian war refugees and secularism. Smokey's passion for rap music ignited in 2007 when he found himself drawn to the soundtrack of the NBA Live 08 video game. Featuring East Coast legends like CL Smooth and KRS-One, the game introduced him to the lyrical depth and laid-back beats of old-school New York rap, setting the stage for his musical evolution.

ThirumaLi
Vishnu M S, better known by his stage name ThirumaLi, is an Indian rapper, singer, and songwriter from Kerala. He began making music in 2013 and launched his professional solo career in 2018, helping to pioneer the Malayalam rap genre. Not long ago, Vishnu was on the streets of Kottayam, crafting lyrics from a deep, personal place, searching for his identity. Like many successful rappers, ThirumaLi, a name that symbolizes honesty and greatness, hails from the suburbs. A college dropout who chose to pursue music, he is now seen as one of the key figures poised to take Malayalam rap from the fringes and push it into the mainstream.

Fejo
Febin Joseph, better known by his stage name Fejo, is an Indian rapper, singer, and songwriter from Kerala who began his professional solo career in 2009. Rapping in Malayalam, Fejo has collaborated with renowned music composers like Raftaar, Sushin Shyam, Deepak Dev, Shaan Rahman, Jakes Bejoy, and Rahul Raj. He is widely regarded as one of the pioneers of Malayalam rap, celebrated for his socially and politically charged lyrics, as well as his hip hop and rap tracks.

Words Platform Desk
Date 20.11.2024