Rahul Makhija, a 24-year-old singer-songwriter from Mumbai, has just released his debut single, “Dastaan,” on January 20th, 2023. The song is a blend of indie, singer-songwriter, and pop genres, and its lyrics are in both English and Hindi, creating a unique fusion of cultures.
“Dastaan” is a deeply personal song that reflects on the theme of loss, as Rahul shares his experience of losing someone very close to him in 2021. The song highlights how everyone experiences loss differently, but it is an inevitable part of life that we must learn to accept. Rahul’s lyrics are heartfelt and poignant, resonating with anyone who has gone through a similar experience.
The recording of “Dastaan” took two months, and Rahul recorded it at his friend’s home studio. Despite being a debut single, the production quality is impressive, with a blend of acoustic guitar, piano, and electronic beats that create a captivating melody.
What makes Rahul’s story unique is that he didn’t initially realize what he was writing about when he penned “Dastaan.” He thought he was writing about love until he realized that he was writing about loss, with the song’s first line, “Thinking bout you since Tuesday,” referencing the day his loved one passed away. This realization sent shivers down his spine, adding an unexpected dimension to the song’s story.
Rahul’s influences are vast, with a love for artists such as Ed Sheeran, The Script, Goo Goo Dolls, and Green Day. However, he does not try to recreate anyone’s style and aims to establish his unique sound.
Apart from music, Rahul is an artist who created the artwork for “Dastaan” himself. His favorite instrument is the piano, and he cannot live without his earphones, watch, water bottle, his book (in which he writes his songs and ideas), and a good pair of shoes. Rahul’s morning routine includes waking up early, meditating, and hitting the gym before starting his day.
Rahul’s one-word story is “different,” reflecting his unique approach to music and life. His favorite quote is a Japanese saying, “Shikita Ga Nai,” meaning “Let go of what you cannot change,” showcasing his positive outlook on life.
As for collaborations, Rahul hopes to work with Anuv Jain from India and Ed Sheeran from abroad. Fans can listen to “Dastaan” on both Spotify and YouTube, marking the beginning of Rahul Makhija’s journey as a musician.