When it comes to pioneering the blend of Punjabi rhythms and Bhangra with R&B vibes, Jagwinder Singh Dhaliwal fondly known as Juggy D stands as a towering figure. The ‘Dance with You’ smash-maker, also one of the original architects of the Urban Desi movement, has had a musical journey in a league of its own. In an exclusive chat with DARPAN, the UK-based Punjabi rockstar, singer, songwriter and entertainer gets candid about the second innings of his career, the evolution of South Asian music, embracing digital age and his vision for the future...all while he continues to add to his electrifying line-up of projects for the year!
Placing Punjabis on the World Stage: A Journey of Passion
Juggy D’s musical odyssey began in Southall, but his roots stretch far beyond. “Music was in me from a very young age,” he reveals. “My parents took me to India, and I fell in love with our culture, music, and food.” He fondly remembers collecting the latest music tapes and copying the best songs. Influenced by legends like Gurdas Maan, Ranjit Mani, Dilshad Akhtar and Kuldip Manak among others, the global sensation's early exposure to the rich tapestry of Punjabi music set the stage for his future endeavours.
Navigating the Commercial Wave
As Punjabi music burgeons globally, we cannot miss to credit Juggy to introduce the world to it. “It makes me very proud to be part of history,” he says, reflecting on his role in popularizing regional South Asian music and establishing the Urban Desi genre when social media was far from reality. With commercialization often stirring a blend of excitement and anxiety among artists, Juggy D remains unshaken. “I’m proud to have created a movement that made Punjabis and Punjabi music popular and crossover into the mainstream,” he asserts.
The Digital Age and Nostalgia
Juggy D’s recently released club crusher "Meri Ban Ja" with the original squad Rishi Rich and Jay Sean brought a wave of nostalgia, echoing the party sounds of 2000s. With over 2.5M views on YouTube, he explains, "It was amazing working on the track although I think it could’ve done a lot better than it did. However, times change, audiences change and people change too. Even though that song wasn’t under the 'The Rishi Rich Project' banner, that was probably the last time you will hear the three of us on a record together."
On Fresh Sounds and Collaborations
Looking forward, Juggy D enthusiastically exclaims, “I would love to collaborate with some mainstream artists again, like I did back in the day, as well as with music communities from India. I think, for everyone, you keep your music fresh by working with new producers and artists and experimenting with new sounds. The key to staying relevant yet authentic is that you have to move with time but also keep an element of what is true to you."
The Future of South Asian Music
“The landscape of South Asian music is brighter than ever, with artists breaking barriers and filling arenas worldwide. Our music is massive right now,” he observes. “With digital numbers at an all-time high, the genre’s future looks promising,” he quips.
A Message of Joy and Resilience
Juggy D’s music is known for its joyous and upbeat vibe. “My music has always been happy music,” he says, emphasizing its lighthearted nature designed to make listeners dance and smile. This ethos reflects not just his musical style but also his approach to tackling the pressures and fierce competition of the industry. “I am my own competition. I have my own market and loyal fans. I have been around for over two decades and am happy,” he asserts, underscoring his focus on personal growth rather than external rivalries.
Exciting Times Ahead
After recently reshaping his future and triumphing over alcohol addiction, Juggy D is brimming with renewed zest for his upcoming projects and remains a source of inspiration for those facing similar struggles. “I’m currently working on my next single, which will be released very soon on my YouTube channel Juggy D TV,” he reveals. Additionally, he’s in talks with his “bro” Rishi about a potential EP, promising yet another thrilling chapter in his illustrious career.
As Juggy D continues to innovate and inspire, he remains a pivotal force in shaping the future of cultural music, adding to the smorgasbord of art that bridges traditions with modernity, connecting generations and people across borders. In a world of fleeting trends, the hitmaker’s impact endures, proving that greatness is both timeless and transformative.