From Vinyl to Virtual: How gadgets have mirrored and shaped the way we listen to music

Gadgets have orchestrated many paradigm shifts in our nation’s audio history, from providing a global stage for indie artists to reinvigorating traditional forms on one hand to transforming the way we connect with our stage idols.

Preservation of musical heritage

India, with its rich treasure of classical, folk, and regional music traditions, has seen a revival of interest in its cultural roots through digital means. Archival recordings – once confined to dusty shelves – are now being digitised and made accessible to a global audience. This has not only aided in the preservation of traditional musical forms but has also fostered a renewed appreciation in Gen Z and younger millennials.

Gadgets have provided a platform for traditional and classical musicians to connect with wider audiences. Social media, YouTube, and streaming platforms have enabled classical maestros like Rahul Sharma, folk artists like Kutle Khan and the Sabri Brothers, and indigenous musicians like Nanjiamma to share their craft with a global audience. This digital exposure has led to collaborations, fusions, and cross-cultural exchanges. Spotify’s latest Echo project features neo-classical collabs and slick live recordings of baithaks that are winning millions of views.

Increased accessibility

In the not-so-distant past, music was a tangible entity, confined to physical formats such as shellacs and vinyl records, cassettes, and later, compact discs (CDs). The act of listening to music involved a deliberate engagement – flipping through albums, carefully placing the needle on a record, or rewinding a cassette to find your favourite track.

“The rise of portable cassette players in the mid-80s marked a seismic shift. Suddenly, sound was liberated from the confines of living rooms and concert grounds, accompanying us on our daily commute. The Walkman became a cultural icon, followed by the Discman, giving birth to the era of personalised soundtracks. People crafted mixtapes to express emotions words couldn’t convey, and the streets echoed with the pulse of melodies via the boombox, which has ironically resurfaced now as a style statement,” says Mumbai-based music director GJ Singh who has composed hits like Akhan Vich and Paisa Paisa Paisa.

The advent of gadgets, particularly portable music players and later, smartphones, revolutionised music consumption. In India, where diversity is not just a buzzword but a lived reality, gadgets offered a means to bridge cultural gaps and bring people together. The proliferation of MP3 players, iPods and smartphones, allowed individuals to carry entire discographies in their pockets, enabling them to explore genres beyond their immediate cultural exposure. A teenager in Delhi could now effortlessly listen to classical ragas from the northern regions, Bollywood hits from Mumbai, or folk tunes from the Rajasthan. This democratisation of musical exposure contributed to a richer, more eclectic music culture.

The transformation of music creation

Gadgets haven’t merely shaped the way music is consumed; they’ve also transformed the very process of its creation. The traditional image of a musician holed up in a soundproofed recording studio has evolved into something more accessible and decentralised. With digital audio workstations (DAWs) and music production software, aspiring artists can create intricate compositions from the comfort of their homes, using laptops and MIDI controllers.

“This democratisation of music production has had a profound impact on the music scene, particularly for independent and alternative music. Emerging musicians from Mumbai to Manipur can now craft their sonic visions without the need for expensive studio time or a roster of session musicians,” says three-time Grammy winning composer Ricky Kej whose rendition of the Jana Gana Mana with UK’s Royal Philharmonic Orchestra was released this Independence Day. Kej is glad that more desi artists are experimenting with genres and styles that challenge established norms.

The phenomenon of music streaming

Another gadget-driven seismic shift was the rise of music streaming platforms. Services like Spotify, Apple Music, Prime Music and locally-tailored options like Gaana and JioSaavn have fundamentally altered how songs are distributed and monetised.

While the shift from physical audio CD formats to digital downloads initially disrupted the industry, streaming has introduced an entirely new paradigm. In the digital age, sharing music transcends physical boundaries. Playlists curated with care become modern-day mixtapes, weaving narratives that forge connections across continents. Social media platforms amplify the sharing experience, building virtual communities united by a shared passion.

For music enthusiasts, the streaming era has meant unfettered access to a global repository of songs. This has been a boon for not only listeners but also for artists seeking international recognition. A rock band from Bengaluru can now potentially garner fans from across the world. However, this shift has also led to debates surrounding artist compensation, with streaming platforms being criticised for offering meagre payouts to musicians.

Live music experience

While gadgets have significantly impacted how we consume and create music, they have also influenced the live music experience. The ubiquity of smartphones with high-quality cameras has transformed concerts and festivals into highly documented events. While this documentation allows for the sharing of experiences and memories, it has also raised questions about the balance between being present in the moment and capturing it for virtual validation.

The sea of smartphone screens raised during a euphoric guitar solo raises questions about the authenticity of the experience – are we truly engaging with the music, or are we more concerned with posting an enviable Instagram Story?

Modern tech has also influenced the dynamics between artists and their audience. Platforms like YouTube and Soundcloud have enabled artists to reach global audiences directly, bypassing traditional gatekeepers. This has led to the rise of ‘bedroom producers’ – individuals who create and share music from the intimacy of their personal spaces. While this accessibility is empowering, it also raises questions about the role of live performances in connecting with an audience on a visceral level.

Future-tech: AI and VR

The merger of music and technology continues to evolve as we write this story. The marriage of AI and music composition – exemplified by platforms like OpenAI’s Musenet, Meta’s Audiocraft or the homegrown Beatoven.ai – holds profound implications for creators and the music industry at large.

These AI-driven tools offer a novel approach to the creative process. While some purists might argue that such tools diminish the authenticity of music creation, we contend that they serve as a catalyst for innovation. They represent a fascinating intersection of technology, culture, and music. India has a rich history of musical traditions, and could stand to benefit greatly from AI-powered platforms. The fusion of classical Hindustani or Carnatic melodies with contemporary beats – facilitated by AI – can lead to the creation of fresh soundscapes that resonate with a global audience.

The landscape of music consumption is rapidly evolving with the introduction of virtual reality (VR). Powered by immersive headsets, VR music experiences offer a paradigm shift in how listeners engage with their favourite artists. By virtually stepping into a studio or a concert arena, listeners can witness the creative process firsthand. Imagine a scenario where aspiring musicians can virtually collaborate with their idols or attend virtual concerts that transport them to iconic venues like Royal Albert Hall or music fests abroad like Coachella and Burning Man!

As music and technology continue their intricate dance, the key lies in thoughtful integration rather than outright disruption. AI and VR should be viewed as tools that amplify human creativity. It’s imperative to strike a balance – to embrace the convenience and connectivity that gadgets offer while remaining attuned to the profound human experiences that music has always embodied. Just as the sitar found its way into The Beatles’ compositions, and tabla rhythms influenced Western percussion, the fusion of tech and culture can lead to harmonious outcomes that transcend geographical and artistic boundaries.

Kasmin Fernandes is a Mumbai-based music journalist and pop culture blogger