Following the UK government's lockdown announcement on March 23, versatile fusion music artist Rita Morar decided to check in with her followers for a #RitasRendition Instagram Live music session.
It started as a chat and an opportunity to sing a few of her hit classics, 'Piya', 'Rain' and 'Let Me Know', but it soon piqued the interest of the British Indian music scene when Rita decided to invite other artists onto her Live to talk about how #MusicHeals.
Every Monday and Thursday since her first session, Rita's Lives have featured artists like multi-percussionist tabla player Vik Drums, DJ Doni Brasco, Swami Baracus and Premz. Rita is also using her live sessions to platform up-and-coming artists like Young Valli, Reveal and Ricky Chohan, and show a unique new side to British Indian music with the likes of Bhavik Haria and Eternal Taal.
Bhavik's live session with Rita focused on bhajans and his new fusion album, which aims to make the devotional Indian genre more appealing to younger listeners. Founder of Eternal Taal, Parv spoke to Rita about putting together the world's first female dhol team, which opened up a whole set of new opportunities.
Rita shares: “I totally believe that in music, we are all on the same level and we should all support each other, which is why I feature upcoming artists as well as established artists.”
In a recent birthday special, Rita reflected on turning another year older in lockdown.
She said: "I thank the universe with my whole heart for my loved ones and my home, every new soul I have encountered, being able to share my music with you, finally finding my real voice and the #MusicHeals platform.
“As an independent artist, I never thought this would come to life and it has because of everyone who has been supporting me so far."
The London-based singer-songwriter has sung Indian devotional music and played the harmonium from a young age. Over the years, her love of music developed into learning to play the piano and experimenting and collaborating with other artists.
From Bollywood to EDM, Rita's contemporary Hindi and English fusion music has led her to stages like Glastonbury, BBC Live Tabla Soul Sessions, and the Alchemy Festival.
Rita is currently working on a brand-new EP and will be releasing details shortly.
*Info: @RitaMorar on Instagram 
