NISH TALKS ABOUT HIS INSPIRATIONS, LATEST SINGLE FIESTA AND UPCOMING DEBUT ALBUM.
SOME young British music stars generate genuine excitement with their talent and look destined for significant international success.
Those who have seen Nish perform live or heard his songs would certainly agree he falls into that category. The singer, songwriter and music producer first got connected to music at the age of five and carried that through his academic life.
But what started off as an escape became something more when he met Mumzy Stranger, who changed everything for Nish by signing him to his Timeless London management company.
Mumzy took Nish to the next level by featuring him on the Bangla refix of his hit song Jaan Atki, which became the first Bangla fusion track to top the iTunes world chart. Nish then released his first official solo single Manja, a chart-topper, and he has been on the rise ever since.
Eastern Eye caught up with Nish before he goes interstellar to talk about music, recent single Fiesta, forthcoming album, future hopes and more.
What kind of music influenced you?
I’ve always been a big fan of Ryan Leslie, since he was a singer and producer. I used to watch a lot of his studio sessions on YouTube for inspiration. I loved his style of live music composition, as I come from a live music background myself.
How did it feel on the release of your first song?
It was one of the proudest moments in my life. I always had the vision to release music of my own, but when it became a reality it was surreal. I worked extremely hard to get to that point, so I knew from then on there was no looking back.
How much of a turning point has working with Mumzy Stranger been and what is the biggest thing you learned from him?
It has been revolutionary for me. What is so beautiful about the working relationship
our camp has is that everyone grows and learns from each other. Mumzy is obviously the most experienced so we learn so many skills from him, but he also values our opinions just as much.
Mumzy has helped me grow as an artist and producer, but the most valuable lesson I learned is how to carry myself as an artist as well as a human being. It’s extremely important to remain humble.
How much does working with a talented collective help you as an artist?
I have been blessed to work with talented people such as Lyan, Mumzy, DJ Kye and
Rupika. A few special mentions must go to Naeem, Zubby, Sachin Patel, Sanjidah
Islam, Raju Shamsher and Rivaz Ahmed. Every single person plays his or her part in helping our team grow as one. We all have a creative pool, where we share ideas and
opinions, and it is important to learn from each other. It’s our honesty and transparency
that maintains the quality control in our work, as well as keeping a healthy working relationship with one another.
Tell us about your recent single Fiesta?
Fiesta was actually inspired by a trip to Spain. The title means party in Spanish, and during our time in Malaga for a video shoot, we took a mobile studio with us to create vibes between the time we were shooting. While writing and recording Fiesta, I envisaged my trip to Spain. Raxstar wrote the Punjabi lyrics brilliantly, and I just bounced off him with my English lyrics.
Which of your unreleased tracks are you most excited about?
I am extremely excited about the release of my debut album Identity. I have been working hard to come up with a collective Bangla urban body of work, since I aim to push this language to a wider audience. I have had success on songs such as Jaan Atki (Bangla refix) and Diamond Jewel (Bangla remix), but since the release of my single Love Lost, I have really been trying to connect Bengalis and non-Bengalis with my beautiful mother tongue.
Tell us more about the album?
I have a few high-profile features on this album which I’m really excited about, but the main aim of this album is to paint a musical picture of my identity; hence the album title. It will not only be a display of my writing and singing abilities, but it will also test my credentials as a record producer.
So is conquering Bangladesh on the radar then?
Most definitely. I managed to get a taste of it back in October 2017 when Mumzy and I flew out to perform in Bangladesh to a sell-out 10,000 crowd. That show really made me
understand that there was a market that has not been tapped into. We felt connected with the next generation of Bengalis, and through my album Identity I aim to start a new movement for Bengalis and non-Bengalis to connect with. I would love to work with some major and upcoming Bangla artists in the scene also. If we all came together, I’m sure we could create something special.
You are very versatile, but what is the musical master plan going forward?
Although I have a strong focus on my urban Bangla movement currently, I aim to continue
with Punjabi music with Mumzy after my Bangla album. I hope to continue improving also, because as a young artist, I’m far from the finished article. Hopefully I can work with more genres of music, maybe reach the Bollywood market, as well as collaborate with some major UK mainstream artists along the way.
Who would you love to collaborate with?
I would love to work with talented individuals from a variety of scenes. From the Asian scene I would love to do something with The PropheC, Fateh or Pav Dharia, because I feel like they are really adding a different flavour to our ever-growing scene. From the UK urban scene I would love to work with artists such as Not3s, Raye or J Hus. I feel like they are really putting UK music on the map and their numbers speak for themselves.
How much does live performing mean to you and which has been the most memorable?
The adrenaline is addictive. It’s moments like performing live that make all the hard work being an artist worthwhile. When I’m on stage I forget the world and feel so at home, and in my element. I’ve been lucky enough to perform around the world, but the recent Newham Under The Stars show has to be up there with the very best. Being an east London boy, performing in front of my home crowd is something I am extremely proud of.
Tell us something not too many people know about you?
I’m a huge sports fan, in particular football. I have just got back into playing weekly and think it’s a great way to keep fit, but to also have some downtime outside of music. We’re so serious about it that every week myself, Mumzy, Lyan and the rest of our music team have assembled five-a-side football matches.
What music dominates your playlist?
I’m the kind of guy who doesn’t have a particular genre. If it sounds good it goes on the playlist. My music taste ranges from classical Indian to UK rap to chart music. I try to keep an open mind with music. I also listen to music in different languages such as German, French, Spanish and Swedish. I also love supporting fellow artists in my scene, so if someone I know releases a banger, I’m going to be the first to support it.
You have a fast-growing fan base, but who are you a big fan of?
There’s no secret to my admiration of The Weeknd. The guy is a genius at what he does.
I’m also a big fan of Ryan Leslie. I don’t think I can discount Diljit Dosanjh from the equation either as his rise has been phenomenal. If I were to think of some dream collaboration it would probably be Drake, Rihanna, Cardi B or The Weeknd – the list
could go on.
What inspires you?
Inspiration can come from anywhere; however, what really inspires me is good energy. If I feel a positive vibe come off someone, whether they have anything to do with music or not, I feel inspired.
If you could ask a living or dead artist a question, what would it be?
Huge artists like Drake are taking a liking into the UK rap/grime scene this year, which is
great to see. I would love to ask him what would it take for someone like him to champion
or collaborate with one of us desi artists in his upcoming projects. It would be great for our scene.
If you could master something new, what do you think it would be?
Coming from a live music background, I have managed to pick up playing many instruments such as the piano, guitar, drums and tabla. However, I always wanted to learn how to play the violin.
Why should we pick up your latest single?
As a young growing artist, I need all the support I can get in order to grow, and feel like the best way our scene can grow is through supporting one another. It’s also a track you can 100 per cent roll your windows down and bump in your car to.
Finally, why do you love music?
Music is a passion, hobby and now a profession for me. Even with a master’s degree in computer science, I could never see myself doing anything other than music.
Music is an international language that has the ability to bring people together. As
musicians we have the ability to touch the hearts of people around the globe, so that is
BTS star Jungkook has issued a public apology after sparking backlash for wearing a cap with the phrase “Make Tokyo Great Again” during a rehearsal for J-Hope’s concert. The phrase, seen as politically loaded, upset many fans in South Korea, with some calling it offensive and thoughtless.
The singer, who recently completed his mandatory military service, said he was unaware of the slogan’s sensitive background and admitted that he should have been more cautious.
Jungkook of K-pop supergroup BTS at an outdoor sporting facility in Yeoncheon Getty Images
Slogan draws backlash over political and cultural sensitivity
Jungkook was seen in an all-black outfit and the now-controversial cap during rehearsals for the Hope on the Stage concert on Friday in Goyang. The slogan on the cap, “Make Tokyo Great Again,” echoed political phrases linked to Japanese nationalism and was previously used by Tokyo Governor Koike Yuriko. Some South Korean fans were quick to point out that the phrase has been associated with anti-Korean sentiments and accused the singer of being “careless.”
The similarity to Donald Trump’s “Make America Great Again” also added fuel to the fire, as netizens debated the political undertones and the potential implications of a global star wearing such a phrase publicly. Social media lit up with disappointment, with many questioning how Jungkook could overlook such a sensitive issue, especially given the historical tensions between South Korea and Japan.
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Jungkook responds: “No excuse for my carelessness”
The 27-year-old singer responded quickly to the criticism through a heartfelt message on Weverse. “I sincerely apologise for the disappointment and inconvenience caused by the hat I wore during rehearsals. I didn’t realise the historical and political context behind the phrase,” he wrote. “There’s no excuse. I was careless. I’ll make sure to be more thoughtful from now on.”
He also confirmed that the cap was discarded immediately and acknowledged that he had hurt many of his fans unintentionally. The apology was met with mixed reactions. While some appreciated his honesty, others felt the damage had already been done.
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This incident comes just days after Jungkook completed his 18-month military service alongside Jimin. The Hope on the Stage concert marked his return to the spotlight, with all seven BTS members reuniting on stage, drawing cheers from fans. Jungkook had recently released Never Let Go, a song dedicated to fans during BTS’s 11th anniversary.
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With a voice that echoes both the glamour and grit of a bygone era, British singer Aisha Khan is set to take centre stage at London’s legendary Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club on June 29.
Performing with her acclaimed band The Rajahs, Khan will present a rich cocktail of 1940s and 1950s American roots music, jazz and rhythm and blues – blending timeless classics with her own original songs. Known for her evocative vocals, magnetic stage presence and deep reverence for the great female vocalists of the past, Khan promises a night filled with toe-tapping rhythm and heartfelt emotion.
Ahead of the show, she spoke to Eastern Eye about her lifelong love affair with vintage sounds, the power of live performance, and her inspirations and musical heroes.
What first connected you to music?
There was not just one thing. As a little girl, I was always singing and had no idea why – I just could not help it. I did not come from a musical family. My mum had a couple of Bollywood LPs with Mohammed Rafi and Lata Mangeshkar, and my dad listened to Andy Williams and The Carpenters in the car. Apart from that, there was not much music at home. I watched Top of the Pops as a teenager, but I fell in love with Elvis Presley when I was 13 – that is where my passion for vintage music began.
How would you describe your brand of music? Mostly, I perform authentic 1940s and 1950s American music – blues, rhythm and blues, and rock and roll. I sing cover versions, but I also write a lot of original songs in the same style. I have also been developing a new Americana/country project, so the music keeps coming.
What does live performance mean to you? At its best, it means pure connection with the audience – almost a transcendental experience. It does not always happen like that, but subconsciously, I think that is what I am always striving for. I go on stage with songs I love and musicians who are great and always have my back. With that secure foundation, I try to see where the music can take me, and I bring the audience along with me. I love being close to the audience and drawing them into the live experience. It can bring so much energy and joy.
How much are you looking forward to performing at the iconic Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club? We performed our first sell-out show upstairs there last year, but this is our first gig in the main room downstairs. I cannot express what an honour and privilege it is to appear at such a legendary venue. To think we will be on the same stage as so many iconic performers – from Ella Fitzgerald to Miles Davis – is mind-blowing.
What can we expect from the show? We will perform some of our most loved original songs, as well as several from our latest album Seven Shades of Blue, released this spring. We also have the honour of introducing Haylen, an incredible artist from Paris, as our special guest. There will be a lot of toe-tapping and happy vibes.
What do you hope people will take away from your performance – musically or emotionally? I hope they leave with a range of emotions. I want them to feel moved, but also to walk out feeling joyous and uplifted.
What do you most love about the jazz and rhythm and blues of the 1940s and 1950s? There are so many things I love about the music of that era. The musicianship, the danceability – how you just cannot help but move to it. I love the lyrics, the humour and the storytelling. When I was younger, I learned a lot of jazz standards and loved them. But it was only after living life – experiencing love, loss and heartbreak, having children, going through disappointment and great happiness – that I truly connected with those songs. Many of them now bring tears to my eyes, or even ecstasy when I sing or hear them. These are songs that truly stand the test of time.
Do you remember the first time you heard a song from that era that truly moved you? It was when I began listening to jazz in my teens. I idolised Sarah Vaughan and her craft. Then, as I discovered more popular music from the 1940s and 1950s and started dancing, I began to feel it not only emotionally but physically too.
Aisha Khan
Who is your own music hero from that bygone era? Sarah Vaughan, definitely. I also loved Billie Holiday.
If you could duet with any artist from the 1940s or 1950s, who would it be? It would have to be one of the great rhythm and blues vocalists – Wynonie Harris, Louis Jordan or Joe Turner. That would be so much fun.
Which classic songs do you most enjoy performing live? I love rhythm and blues by the many powerful female vocalists of that era – songs like Voodoo Voodoo by LaVern Baker, They Call Me Big Mama by Big Mama Thornton, or Pretty Good Love by Big Maybelle.
What inspires you as an artist? A life lived. Everything I have experienced – from having children to feminism. People, places, books – you never know where inspiration will come from. I also love collaborating with other musicians and singers; you never know what kind of magic might be created.
Why do you love music? The same reason I breathe. It is part of all of us – from the rhythms in nature to the cadence of the languages we learn as children. It can tell great stories and express deep emotions. It has the power to change lives – to comfort those in pain and bring joy to those open to it. I believe it is one of the purest art forms and forms of self-expression. I feel incredibly fortunate to have done this for so many years, and I hope to continue for the rest of my life.
Aisha Khan and The Rajahs at Ronnie Scott’s, 47 Frith Street, London W1D 4HT on Sunday, June 29. www.ronniescotts.co.uk
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Lewis Hamilton served as co-producer and advisor for F1, guiding everything from story to technical racing details
Brad Pitt’s upcoming Formula One film, titled F1, owes much of its realism and racing soul to none other than seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton. According to director Joseph Kosinski, the film wouldn’t exist in its current form without Hamilton’s hands-on involvement, from the first pitch to the final details.
Kosinski, best known for Top Gun: Maverick, shared that Hamilton was the first person he contacted when the project was just an idea. An email led to a partnership, and Hamilton came on board not only as an executive producer but as a consultant whose lived experience shaped everything from the screenplay to on-track movements.
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Every detail came from someone who’s lived it
Set for global release on 25 June (27 June in North America), F1 was filmed across real Grand Prix weekends with full support from Formula One’s organisers. Pitt plays Sonny Hayes, a seasoned driver making a surprise return to the circuit, while Damson Idris stars as his rookie teammate.
Hamilton’s role, however, extended far beyond a name on the credits. He worked closely with the filmmakers to ensure the racing looked and felt accurate, including giving track-specific advice. For instance, he told Kosinski that if Pitt’s character were to pull aside under a blue flag, turn six in Hungary would be the most realistic spot to do so. That level of detail could only come from someone who knows the sport inside out.
Brad Pitt stars as a veteran driver, with scenes shot during actual race weekends for authenticityGetty Images
Producer Jerry Bruckheimer added that Hamilton even corrected gear shifts in the audio during a Silverstone scene, pointing out the sound didn’t match the gear a driver would realistically use in that corner. His obsession with accuracy gave the film its edge.
Beyond the racetrack, Hamilton’s spirit fuels the story
The racing scenes are just one part of the film’s core. Hamilton’s insights also inspired character development. One pivotal moment, where Pitt’s character reflects on the deeper meaning behind his love for racing, was drawn from a real-life conversation with Hamilton about the emotional and spiritual connection drivers have with the sport.
Brad Pitt, Director Joseph Kosinski, Damson Idris, Kerry Condon and Producer Jeremy Kleiner at the fan event for "F1: The Movie" Getty Images
As Formula One looks to expand its global fanbase, especially in the US, F1 aims to build on the success of Netflix’s Drive to Survive. But unlike the docuseries, this film brings together Hollywood storytelling with Hamilton-approved authenticity. And without him, the filmmakers say, this story simply couldn’t be told.
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SRH’s Kavya Maran and Anirudh Ravichander spark fresh buzz
A new rumour is doing the rounds in celebrity and cricket circles. Sunrisers Hyderabad CEO Kavya Maran is reportedly set to marry top music composer and singer Anirudh Ravichander. Though there’s been no official word from either camp, talk of the duo planning a wedding has picked up serious steam online.
Anirudh Ravichander performing live Getty Images
A Reddit rumour, a Las Vegas spotting, and a Rajinikanth connection
Whispers of a romance between Kavya and Anirudh first surfaced in early 2024, with a Reddit post claiming the two were dating. The same post claimed that superstar Rajinikanth, who is Anirudh’s uncle by marriage, had spoken to Kavya’s father, media tycoon Kalanithi Maran, about the match. A few netizens also claimed to have seen the two holidaying together in Las Vegas. Despite public denials from Anirudh’s team back then, the buzz never quite died down.
Now, fresh reports claim the couple may have been quietly preparing for a wedding. Online users have once again begun speculating, especially after noticing the two being spotted together more frequently. With Anirudh’s packed music schedule and Kavya’s strong presence during this year’s IPL season, the timing seems curious and perfect for a soft launch into public acceptance.
Who they are: power, legacy, and a lot of fan following
Anirudh Ravichander shot to fame with Why This Kolaveri Di in 2012 and has since become one of Indian cinema’s most bankable composers. From Jawan to Vikram, his music dominates charts across languages. He comes from a family with strong roots in the arts. His father is actor Ravi Raghavendra, his mother a classical dancer, and his aunt is married to Rajinikanth. His great-grandfather was filmmaker K. Subramanyam.
Kavya Maran is the CEO of Sunrisers Hyderabad and daughter of Kalanithi Maran, the powerful head of Sun Group. Over the last few years, she has become a fan favourite for her viral expressions during SRH matches. She also handles key parts of Sun Network’s broadcast and music divisions.
Kavya Maran caught on camera smiling in the SRH standsNortheast News
Whether the wedding actually happens remains to be seen. But if true, this high-profile alliance would bring together cricket, cinema, and a whole lot of corporate power, and fans seem more than ready to celebrate.
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Jungkook, RM, and V return from military service as BTS shifts focus from solo journeys to full-group comeback
It’s a moment fans around the world have been waiting for! BTS, the global K-pop sensation, is almost whole again. Six out of seven members of the South Korean boy band have now completed their mandatory military service, setting the stage for what could be the biggest music comeback in recent years.
Thousands of fans from across the globe have already descended on Seoul this week, many attending BTS Festa, an annual celebration marking the group’s anniversary. This year is extra special, as it coincides with the near-completion of the band’s military duties. The final member, SUGA, is set to be discharged on 21 June.
K-pop band BTS's members salute after being discharged from a mandatory military service Getty Images
Fans gather with hope as BTS nears full return
The group hasn’t performed together since their last concert in Busan in 2022. Since then, each member has embarked on solo projects while also fulfilling national duties. Jin and J-Hope were the first to complete their service last year. This week, Jungkook and Jimin exited their base in Yeoncheon to cheering crowds. RM and V followed shortly after, with RM even serenading fans on a saxophone and V promising that the reunion was just around the corner.
HYBE’s headquarters in Seoul is now wrapped in a massive banner reading “WE ARE BACK”, reflecting the excitement around the group’s 12th anniversary and the anticipation of their long-awaited comeback. Fans, like Karla Linan from Mexico and Ayla O’Ryan from Scotland, have travelled far just to be part of the celebration, hoping to catch even a glimpse of the stars.
Fans from around the world gather in Seoul for BTS Festa celebrationsGetty Images
India’s BTS ARMY ready for a concert of a lifetime
Back in India, the ARMY is equally thrilled. The country was originally included in BTS' 2020 tour plans, which were shelved due to the pandemic. But fans haven’t stopped streaming, supporting, and waiting. With India now ranked among BTS’ top international markets, the buzz around a possible tour date is growing louder.
The success of Coldplay’s India tour in 2025 proved the massive scale and impact a global act can have. Coldplay’s Ahmedabad leg alone brought in over £37 million (₹392 crore) to the local economy. Industry insiders believe that BTS, arguably an even bigger draw, could surpass those figures if they announce an Indian date.
J-Hope, Jin, and other BTS members gear up for reunion, as solo eras give way to group plansGetty Images
With new music and a world tour expected in 2026, the stage is being set. For fans across the world and especially in India, BTS isn’t just returning. They’re about to make history again.