Why AP Dhillon has never sung for Bollywood
What's the story
Punjabi singer AP Dhillon (Excuses, Brown Munde) recently revealed why he has never lent his voice to a Bollywood song. Speaking in a Punjabi interview on SMTV's YouTube channel, he said that his decision was driven by a desire to protect and empower Punjabi musicians. He also expressed disappointment with fellow Punjabi artists for not taking a stand against what he called the "exploitative" practices of the Hindi film industry.
Exploitation
'I want to set an example'
Dhillon said, "I'll tell you why I've never done a Bollywood song yet. It's only because I care for my people. It's not about Bollywood. I want to set an example for my people." He added that he would be willing to work with Bollywood if they changed their business practices, which he believes currently "exploit both the song and the artist for profit."
Ownership
Major Bollywood actors have approached Dhillon
Dhillon also revealed that he has been approached by major Bollywood actors in the past, but refused to compromise on ownership rights. He said, "I made the song; we even had the scene in mind. But they want to own the song; they want the rights to the song; they want to exploit it." "So, I told them that until they change this, I can't do a song with them."
Industry collaboration
Need for balanced collaboration
The singer-producer emphasized the need for a more balanced collaboration between the Punjabi and Hindi film industries. He said, "I don't want a young artist to lose out on their source of income by selling their hit song. I don't want them to be exploited." "But the only problem is that the other A-listers are still giving songs. Until they draw a line in the sand and say no, we won't make progress."
Industry impact
Dhillon's stance sparks conversation in music industry
Dhillon's stance on creative independence has sparked a conversation across the industry, raising questions about fair ownership and artistic integrity. Meanwhile, he will be touring India in December across eight cities. Titled the One of One tour, this will be his biggest-ever Indian tour yet and marks his third run in the country.