Janaki Narayanan: “Your art is important and special”
Janaki performing “Tunnelin”
Tell us about the origins of your journey as a South Asian creative. What led you down this path? What motivates you each day to do what you do?:
I learned Carnatic (South indian classical) music growing up and though I didn’t emotionally connect with it then, I think since I learned it during my formative years it manifests itself in the music I create today, in very emotional ways. Growing up my older brother also used to make me mixtapes (CD’s - remember those?) with music of different genres. I always was deeply drawn to Alicia keys’ music, her early stuff. I continued to pursue singing in school via choruses, musical theater, a cappella groups.. and after I graduated college I met some lovely musicians who encouraged me to put out original music even though I did not feel I was qualified to. So grateful and glad I did.
In your own words, why do you make your art?:
I make my art because if I didn’t, I would lose part of my sense of self. Creating art fulfills me in a way that nothing else does.
I also feel that in many ways all we have is art, and each other. There is so much shit going on in our lives and in the broader world;we need this. We need to feel music and share it with each other.
What do you consider to be your greatest achievement thus far as a South Asian creative?:
Very hard question. I do think I’ve been able to create music that is incredibly true and authentic to me and have never strayed from that. I am proud of myself for that.
Who or what is your creative “role model” and/or serves as the greatest influence on your work?:
I don’t have one role model;at any given time I am inspired by a few artists for very different reasons. As of late I have been very inspired by Amber mark, Hozier, Jazmine Sullivan, J Cole, and the soundtrack from the musical, “into the woods” (music score by Stephen Sondheim). Growing up I was most influenced by Alicia keys so she has probably had the biggest subconscious impact on my music.
What is your creative “mantra?”:
My creative mantra is: connect with your inner child. Because when we were children we did not judge ourselves, we were just us and let that out. Whenever I do this, that’s when the best stuff comes out.
Desi culture often perpetuates disapproval of creative work as a full-time profession. Have you ever faced any backlash or internal/external barriers to your creative endeavors?:
No, not yet. Many other south Asian musicians and creatives around me have been much more brave than me in paving that path. My future music and choices may cause some backlash, but we will deal with that when it happens. :)
What do you envision for yourself in your future as a South Asian creative?:
I’d like to keep creating, performing, and growing. And supporting my community around me as I do so. Growth while remaining authentic and myself. More tactically, I’d also love to widen my creative toolkit (ie via getting better at my instrument, producing) so I have more tools through which I can express myself. Performing at larger venues will I think challenge me as well, performance-wise. I’d love that in the future.
What is your advice to aspiring South Asian creatives looking to explore their own artistry - but not necessarily having the resources or the support to do it?:
My advice would be to just start and not think that wherever you are today, is not enough. Because even for the most “technically proficient” musicians - they are not an expert in everything which means projects are mostly or always the work of a team and community of people, not just one person. Spend time honing your craft, picking up other things along the way, and finding others who have the skills you don’t, to help bring your project to fruition. But “not doing” is not an option. Your art is important and special. Just start and be intentional and let your heart lead you.