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Explore every episode of the podcast The Raj Kaul Podcast

Dive into the complete episode list for The Raj Kaul Podcast. Each episode is cataloged with detailed descriptions, making it easy to find and explore specific topics. Keep track of all episodes from your favorite podcast and never miss a moment of insightful content.

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1–44 of 44

TitlePub. DateDuration
EP41 – Sharni (Time Productions): First Ever Interview | From Handsworth Roots to UK Bhangra Legacy16 Sep 202501:15:46

Sharni (Time Productions) joins Raj Kaul for his first ever interview on The Pursuit of Musical Excellence.

In this powerful conversation, Sharni opens up about his Handsworth roots, family influences, and the journey that shaped him into one of the UK Bhangra scene’s most respected producers. From learning dhol as a kid to recording with legends like DCS, Kanwar Grewal, Moneyspinner, and Tru-Skool, Sharni shares stories of Birmingham’s golden era, his studio philosophy, and why respect and preparation matter more than ever.

He also reflects on what musical excellence means to him today — balancing tradition, authenticity, and community with the modern realities of music.

Follow Sharni: @timeproductionsmusic
Follow Raj: @rajkaulofficial

EP40 – Chirag Rao (Bollywood & Jazz Singer): From Mumbai Training to UK Stages02 Sep 202501:05:19

In this episode of The Raj Kaul Podcast, Raj sits down with Chirag Rao – a UK-based Bollywood and jazz singer with a remarkable journey. From growing up between London and Nashville to training under legendary maestros in Mumbai, Chirag shares how his unique upbringing shaped his artistry.

The conversation dives into:

  • His family’s musical legacy and early influences 🎶

  • Training in Mumbai with renowned gurus and the challenges of Indian classical learning 🇮🇳

  • The evolution of Bollywood music from Rafi and Kishore Kumar to Arijit Singh 🎤

  • Fusing Bollywood and Jazz in his "Bollywood Brat Pack" project 🎷

  • Insights on practice, discipline, and the true meaning of musical excellence

If you love Bollywood classics, Indian classical music, jazz fusion, or inspiring artist journeys, this episode is packed with wisdom, nostalgia, and performance insights.

👉 Don’t forget to subscribe for more conversations with world-class musicians and creators.

EP31 - Sharmila: Punjabi Vibes, Raw Talent & A Whole Lotta Soul (Interview in Punjabi)01 Apr 202500:34:57

In this vibrant Punjabi episode of the Raj Kaul Podcast, we welcome the soulful and incredibly talented Sharmila to the mic. Switching from English to Punjabi, this episode is packed with raw vocals, heartfelt conversations, and cultural humour that celebrates Punjabi identity and musical heritage.

🎤 Sharmila opens up about his musical journey, drops some vocals live on the mic, and shares his thoughts on music, life in the UK, and the love for his roots. From spontaneous shayari to rich traditional singing, this episode is a tribute to Punjabi virsa (heritage).

💬 Topics include:

  • Sharmila's early inspirations

  • Singing live with raw desi energy

  • Thoughts on Punjabi language, culture & faith

  • Raj’s reflections and closing messages

✨ Whether you're Punjabi or just love good music and real talk, this one's for you.

🔁 Don’t forget to leave a review, follow the podcast, and tag us when you share on Instagram or TikTok!

EP30 - Maya Lakhani: Rocking the Indie Scene & Carving Her Own Path20 Mar 202500:26:44

In this episode of The Raj Kaul Podcast, British Indian alt-rock artist Maya Lakhani joins Raj Kaul to discuss her journey in the music industry. From fronting school rock bands to becoming a self-taught solo artist, Maya shares how she embraced her passion for rock music and built her career independently. She reflects on her experience performing at Glastonbury, the challenges of self-producing music, and the importance of representation in the rock genre. Maya also offers valuable insights for aspiring musicians and talks about her upcoming projects.

Tune in to hear her story, her influences, and what’s next for her music!

EP29 - Sodhivine: Crafting Indian Fusion Music with a Modern Twist04 Mar 202500:57:58

In this episode of The Raj Kaul Podcast, we sit down with Sodhivine, also known as Naanak Sodhi—a Canadian-based music producer and composer celebrated for his innovative Indian fusion music. Sodhivine shares his journey from composing scores for films to creating genre-blending tracks that merge traditional Indian melodies with Western influences.

We delve into his dual life as a product manager at Google and a musician, exploring how his engineering and tech background influences his meticulous approach to music production. From his experiences with Bell Media to insights on AI’s role in music, Sodhivine offers invaluable advice for aspiring musicians.

Join us for a deep dive into the art of clean mixes, the evolution of Indian fusion, and the challenges of marketing music in the modern age. Don’t miss this inspiring conversation with Sodhivine!

 
EP28 - DJ Swami (Diamond Duggal): Blending Cultures, Sounds, and Musical Identity18 Feb 202500:43:19

In this episode of The Raj Kaul Podcast, host Raj Kaul sits down with the legendary DJ Swami, also known as Diamond Duggal, a pioneering producer, musician, and mentor in the music industry. Diamond shares his journey from growing up in Handsworth, Birmingham, to producing Apache Indian’s early hits, touring with Boyzone and Robbie Williams, and shaping the evolution of Punjabi and fusion music.

Throughout the conversation, he discusses the challenges of maintaining passion in the music industry, the importance of authenticity, and how blending cultures and sounds has been central to his work. He also explores the changing landscape of Punjabi music, the balance between tradition and innovation, and the significance of staying true to one’s artistic identity.

Packed with insights for aspiring artists and music lovers alike, this episode offers a deep dive into the mind of one of the industry's most influential figures.

Listen now and share your thoughts—should there be a Part 2?

EP27 - Ruby Kaul (Artist Manager) | Behind the Music: Navigating the Industry07 Feb 202501:08:36

In this special episode, Raj Kaul sits down with his wife and manager, Ruby Kaul, for an open and candid conversation about the highs and lows of building a music career. From the struggles of securing gigs and dealing with industry challenges to the story behind their track Saah, Raj and Ruby reflect on their journey together. They dive into the realities of being an independent artist, managing finances, and balancing family life with the demands of the music industry. Tune in for an insightful and entertaining discussion filled with personal anecdotes, industry insights, and a glimpse into what’s next for Raj’s music career.

EP26 - Dipps Bhamrah: Pioneering Evolution in Punjabi Music and Live Performances21 Jan 202501:22:27

In this inspiring episode, Raj Kaul sits down with the multi-talented Dipps Bhamrah, a musician, producer, and BBC Asian Network presenter. From his roots in a legendary musical family to his insights on evolving the Punjabi music scene, Dipps shares his journey of passion, persistence, and creative innovation. Discover his unique perspective on embracing technology in live performances, the sacrifices required to pursue musical excellence, and his advice for aspiring artists. This episode is a masterclass in commitment and evolution within the music industry. Tune in for an unforgettable conversation filled with wisdom, laughter, and inspiration.

EP25 - Gussy G: From Bhangra Basslines to Global Soundscapes24 Dec 202400:46:38

In this episode, Raj Kaul sits down with Gus Campbell, aka Gussie G, a multi-talented musician and third-generation artist from Birmingham. Gus shares his incredible journey from playing bass in the iconic Bhangra band Satrang to remixing chart-topping garage tracks with the B15 Project. Together, they delve into the evolution of British Bhangra, the challenges faced by live bands in a changing music scene, and Gus’s foray into sync licensing and DJing.

Tune in for insights into music’s golden eras, the impact of AI on artistry, and what it takes to achieve musical excellence in an ever-evolving industry. This conversation is packed with inspiring stories, valuable advice for aspiring musicians, and a celebration of cross-cultural creativity. Don’t miss it!

Ep24 - Pally Matharu: Blending Genres to Create Musical Magic06 Dec 202400:38:43

In this episode of The Raj Kaul Podcast, Raj Kaul sits down with multi-talented musician and producer Pali Mathru. Known for his innovative fusion of funk, R&B, and traditional Punjabi music, Pali shares his journey from self-taught guitarist to a sought-after performer and music producer. Discover how he transitioned from weddings to crafting unique tracks, the influence of legends like Prince and Michael Jackson on his sound, and his approach to creating fresh, organic music. Whether you're an aspiring musician or simply a lover of great music, this conversation is packed with inspiration and practical advice for pushing creative boundaries while staying true to your roots.

EP23 - Ranbir Daskai: A Legacy of Music Tradition, Talent, and the Challenges of the Punjabi Music Scene19 Nov 202401:02:52

In this episode of The Raj Kaul podcast, Raj Kaul is joined by Ranbir Daskai, a talented Punjabi artist with deep roots in the music industry. Together, they discuss Ranbir’s unique journey growing up among legendary musicians, the influence of traditional folk music, and his rise to prominence through platforms like Brit Asia. Ranbir shares candid insights into the struggles faced by UK artists, the challenges of going independent, and the importance of supporting local talent. This episode offers a heartfelt look at preserving heritage while navigating the modern music landscape.

EP22 - Herbie Sahara: Journey Through Legacy - Insights and Reflections with a Bhangra Icon06 Nov 202401:12:05

In this episode of the Raj Kaul Podcast, we sit down with Herbie Sahara, the dynamic frontman of the renowned Sahara UK band. Herbie shares his musical journey, from singing Hindi film tracks at the age of three to leading a band that has toured globally, including performances in Canada, Norway, Denmark, India, Pakistan, Kenya, the USA, and Dubai. We delve into the stories behind hits like "Sohniye Ni Sohniye" and "Billo Ni Tera Lal Ghagra," and discuss the band's impact on the Bhangra scene. Tune in for an insightful conversation about the evolution of Bhangra music and Herbie's experiences in the industry.

EP39 – Apache Indian: From Handsworth to Global Icon | Reggae, Bhangra & Industry Truths19 Aug 202501:40:24

Apache Indian joins The Raj Kaul Podcast for a powerful and unfiltered conversation about his journey from Handsworth, Birmingham to becoming a global music icon.

We dive into:

  • His early influences from reggae, Punjabi, and multicultural Handsworth.

  • The story behind Movie Over India, Chok There, and Boom Shack-A-Lak.

  • Touring the world, seven UK Top 40 hits, and Hollywood placements.

  • Hard truths about the Asian music industry, radio gatekeeping, and award show politics.

  • His vision for unity, a Handsworth “Coke Studio,” and giving back to the next generation.

🎧 Whether you know him from reggae dancehalls, Bollywood soundtracks, or Hollywood movies, this is Apache Indian like you’ve never heard before.

👉 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more deep dives with legendary artists.

🔗 Follow Apache Indian: @ApacheIndianHQ
🔗 Follow Raj Kaul: @RajKaulOfficial

EP21 - Aaron AK (Aaron Bains): Overcoming Obstacles and Pushing Boundaries in the Rap Game22 Oct 202400:43:22

In this episode of the Raj Kaul podcast, we sit down with Aaron AK (Aaron Bains), a rapper making waves in the UK music scene. Aaron opens up about his journey from childhood struggles, including overcoming a medical condition that left him in and out of hospitals, to finding his confidence and voice in music. We discuss his experiences growing up in Birmingham, his passion for rap, the highs and lows of rap battles in school, and how he transitioned into the studio. Aaron shares valuable insights on staying consistent, the importance of surrounding yourself with good people, and how he plans to push his music career to the next level. Don't miss this candid conversation filled with inspiration, grit, and a deep love for the art of rap.

EP20 - Dal (Tabla Jedi): Embracing Learning and Passion to Achieve Musical Excellence08 Oct 202401:08:48

In this episode, I sit down with Dal, also known as the Tabla Jedi, to discuss his incredible journey through the world of Indian classical music, his experiences working with renowned artists, and his passion for sharing the beauty of rhythm. From his roots in Leeds to becoming a respected tabla player, Dal’s story is filled with insights on mastering the art of music, collaborating across genres, and staying true to your craft. We also touch on his love for Star Wars, his work with legendary artists like Ian Brown and Richard Ashcroft, and his deep connection to the tabla. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about dedication, creativity, and the power of music.

EP19 - Bups Saggu: Embracing Musical Evolution to Achieve Excellence24 Sep 202401:01:38

In this exciting episode, Raj interviews renowned DJ and music producer Bups Saggu. Bups shares insights into his journey from being a young Bhangra dancer to becoming a top Punjabi music producer. He opens up about balancing a busy wedding season, DJing, family life, and the creation of his latest album, his fourth solo project.

Bups also talks about his experience working with emerging artists, the evolution of his sound, and his groundbreaking role as one of the first Punjabi producers to share tutorials on YouTube. He shares valuable tips on collaboration, production techniques, and maintaining musical excellence. Whether you're a music producer, a fan of Punjabi music, or just curious about the life of a successful DJ, this episode is packed with inspiration and practical wisdom.

Tune in for a deep dive into Bups Saggu's creative process, his views on the modern music industry, and exciting news about his upcoming releases!

EP18 - Zane Talavia (Mix Haven): A Journey Through the Art of Music Production and Lifelong Learning10 Sep 202401:54:49

Zane Talavia is a multi-talented music producer, DJ, and mixing and mastering engineer known for his innovative approach to music education and production. Operating under the artist name Moda, Zane has been creating music for over a decade, blending a range of electronic styles with his passion for sound design. In addition to producing his own tracks, Zane founded MixHaven, a platform dedicated to teaching the intricacies of mixing and mastering through easy-to-understand, visually engaging content. His unique approach to breaking down complex concepts has garnered a dedicated following on social media. Zane's journey has taken him from bedroom production to signing with multiple record labels and amassing millions of streams, all while staying true to his love for music and pushing creative boundaries.

EP17 - Manak-E: Listeners today require sincerity from the artist (Interview in Punjabi)27 Aug 202400:53:25

Manak-E is a talented artist who has collaborated with UK Bhangra icons like Amna Hayer and RDB, and has also made a significant impact in Bollywood with his chart-topping hits. In this exclusive interview with Raj Kaul, he opens up about his musical journey and shares his admiration for fellow artists in the industry.

EP16 - DJ Reminisce: The possiblities are unlimited13 Aug 202401:59:13

DJ Reminisce is a pillar of the Canadian Punjabi music scene, renowned for his pioneering role in introducing UK Bhangra to Canadian Punjabis in the 1990s. A uniquely talented DJ and producer, Reminisce shares with Raj Kaul his journey into the world of DJing in Canada and his experiences mixing tracks for some of the biggest Punjabi artists globally.

Ep15 - Mukhtar Sahota: An amazing time to learn music30 Jul 202400:40:24

Mukhtar Sahota is a musical maestro who needs no introduction, especially for those well-versed in UK Bhangra. He was originally part of one of the most famous UK Bhangra bands, The Sahotas. He later branched out as a solo producer, revolutionizing the UK Bhangra music scene. In this exclusive episode of the podcast, he discusses his foundations as a musician and his venture into Bollywood.

Ep14 - Solo Edition: Consistency16 Jul 202400:31:45

In this episode in prepartion for the next massive guest Raj Kaul takes some time out to dicuss how to be consistent in practise. He also updates on the current status of his music projects as well as revealing the next massive guest.

Ep13 - Desi Dark Child (Raj Jassal): You only need a small pinch to start progressing02 Jul 202402:18:17

Desi Dark Child has an illustrious career as a musician and producer. He has worked with some of the biggest legends in Punjabi music. In this bumper episode he discusses his childhood of being pushed straight into the deep end by his doting father, as well performing alongside the likes of Kuldip Manak and Surinder Shinda. We see a warm side of Desi Dark Child which has to be heard to be believed. 

Ep12 - Joga Singh: Providing value to the listener (Interview partially in Punjabi)18 Jun 202400:34:04

Joga Singh is the man behind the UK hits Aari Aari & Has Has. With amazing & dynamic vocals Joga talks about his journey as a singer and his unorthodox way of training his amazing and dynamic vocals.

EP38 – Luke Victor: From Punk Bands to Purpose-Driven Production05 Aug 202501:05:32

In this episode of The Raj Kaul Podcast, Raj sits down with multi-instrumentalist, producer, and mentor Luke Victor to unpack a truly unique musical journey. From classical piano at age 6 (with no TV in the house!) to punk bands, DJing in London, and launching a full-time studio in Leicestershire, Luke’s story is one of raw passion, deep faith, and relentless pursuit of musical excellence.

Discover how Luke's experience in bands pushed him into production, why he walked away from the DJ scene, and how his faith transformed his approach to music and life. This conversation is filled with golden insights on consistency, collaboration, worship, and finding purpose through creativity.

🎧 Topics Covered:

  • Why no TV launched his piano career

  • Playing punk gigs at age 14

  • Crashing into London’s indie scene

  • The reality of band politics and breakups

  • Building a homegrown studio from scratch

  • Why serving God redefined his music

  • Luke’s neoclassical piano releases & future projects

🎹 Artist Page: @lukevictormusic

💬 Leave a comment, share your thoughts, and don’t forget to subscribe for more episodes about the pursuit of musical excellence.

Ep11 - Sanj D: Study the background of whatever you do04 Jun 202401:13:49

Sanj D is a London based Punjabi singer, writer and musician who has just recently released his brand new single called Yaar Bolda. He talks to Raj about his background in Kirtan and his passion for the Punjabi language and culture, leading to his singing career.

Ep10 - Sadi Jori (Banger & Sammy): Just do it21 May 202402:09:27

Sadi Jori are a Punjabi singing duo consisting of Banger and Sammy, based in the West Midlands, UK. Off the back of their recent Chamkila tour in Punjab, they chat with Raj Kaul about all things music. In this bumper length episode they discuss topics such as social media trolls, learning Punjabi and their experience touring in Punjab.

Ep9 - Jyoti (Mallika & Jyoti): Folk Music in the blood (Interview in Punjabi)07 May 202400:31:36

Jyoti is one half of the famous sister duo Mallika & Jyoti from Punjab. They were champions of Punjabi folk music during the 2000s. Jyoti talks to Raj about her journey as a singer and being the daughter of the renowned writer Meet Majri ji (The man behind Nehro Paar Bangla).

Ep8 - Tubsy: Humbleness and dedication to your profession23 Apr 202401:28:56

Tubsy is one of the cornerstones of the UK Bhangra industry. He has helped define some of the most iconic sounds in the UK Bhangra industry. He chats with Raj about his illustrious journey and how he learnt his craft as a master Indian percussionist.

EP7 - Amo Hayer (Kaos Productions): A second to none work ethic09 Apr 202401:20:50

Producer-manager Amo Hayer aka Kaos Beats chats to Raj Kaul about his journey as a producer and then transferring his expertise into a mentor and manager for Deesh Sandhu.

Raj Kaul chats with Saini Surinder (Ep6) (Interview in Punjabi)24 Oct 202300:30:50

In this episode, I chat with one of the best Punjabi singers currently in the UK, Saini Surinder. He discusses his amazing journey from being in the studio with Lembher Hussainpuri & Kaka Bhaniawala to how he changed his natural pitch.

EP37 – Jason Bavanandan: From GarageBand to Calvin Harris, Music Industry Truths & AI in Music01 Jul 202501:18:40

In this must-listen episode, Raj Kaul speaks with the brilliant Jason Bavanandan—UK songwriter, producer, and mentor who's worked with global icons like Calvin Harris, Diana Ross, and Noel Gallagher.

Jason opens up about:

  • Getting a 6-figure record deal within 6 months

  • Building a band from scratch with zero contacts

  • Why perfectionism kills music careers

  • How he accidentally became a top-tier songwriting mentor

  • The rise of AI in music and what it means for artists

  • Why GarageBand is more powerful than most think

They also get real about hustle culture, fatherhood, and why most artists are distracted by the wrong things.

🔊 Whether you're an artist, producer, or music lover—this is a raw, deep-dive conversation you won’t forget.

📌 Subscribe on YouTube, Spotify, or Apple Podcasts
📲 Follow Jason: @bavanandan
🎤 Follow Raj: @rajkaulofficial

EP36 - Sanj V: From Punjab Roots to Bollywood Playback (in Punjabi)17 Jun 202500:28:28

In this powerful episode of The Raj Kaul Podcast, Raj sits down with singer, composer, and producer Sanj V, whose voice has graced major Bollywood films like Sultan, Suraj Pe Mangal Bhari, and more. From humble beginnings in Punjab to training under legendary music director Jaidev Kumar, Sanj V shares:**

  • His early musical journey and family legacy

  • Struggles breaking into Mumbai’s music scene

  • Recording iconic tracks like "Aj Jani Dil Nahi Lagda" and "Doli Wich Tu Aayi"

  • Behind-the-scenes stories with singers like Javed Ali, Kavita Krishnamurti, Alka Yagnik, and more

  • Lessons from 10+ years of grind, rejection, and quiet success

💥 This is a must-listen for anyone chasing a music dream.
🎧 Subscribe for more inspiring artist journeys.
📱 Follow Sanj V on Instagram: @sanjvsinger

EP35 - Harry Matharu: From Ashoka to Daljit – 30 Years of UK Bhangra Mastery05 Jun 202500:58:48

In EP35 of The Raj Kaul Podcast, Raj sits down with UK Bhangra keyboard legend Harry Matharu—a musician who’s played with Ashoka Group, XLNC, Safri Boys, and most recently, joined Diljit Dosanjh’s world tour.

🎹 From growing up in Handsworth surrounded by music to performing live with a 100-person tour crew, Harry reflects on:

  • His musical roots in the Ashoka Group

  • The golden era of UK Bhangra and the band explosion of the '90s

  • Why the live band scene declined—and how to revive it

  • What it's really like performing with Diljit Dosanjh in front of 20,000 fans

  • How today's live bands can compete with DJs using loops & technology

  • A call to the next generation to pick up real instruments

Whether you’re an old-school Bhangra fan, aspiring musician, or lover of Punjabi music, this episode is packed with real stories and hard-earned wisdom.

🎧 Subscribe, share, and leave a review to support the scene and help push live music forward.

EP34 - Amrit Saab: From Kabza to Kangna – The Untold Story of a Punjabi Legend20 May 202500:48:30

In this episode of the Raj Kaul Podcast, Raj sits down with the legendary Punjabi artist Amrit Saab. They discuss his musical journey from Punjab to the UK, how he unexpectedly became a singer, and the story behind his famous albums like Mindro and Kabza.

Amrit reflects on the mentorship he received from the iconic Sabar Koti and shares insights into his lyric writing, including songs like Kangna. The episode also dives into industry challenges, personal integrity, and the role of family in sustaining his career.

It’s a powerful and deeply personal conversation full of rich stories from the world of Punjabi music.

EP33 – Vizano: From Investment Banking to Electronic Beats and a Disciplined Creative Mindset06 May 202500:44:11

On this episode of The Raj Kaul Podcast, Raj sits down with electronic music producer and DJ Vizano, whose journey from investment banking to global music stages is as inspiring as it is unexpected. They explore how Vizano transitioned from DJing at weddings to producing genre-blending electronic music, the importance of structured learning, and why having a clear vision and goals is vital in today’s music industry.

Discover how Vizano fuses South Asian sounds, Afro house, and electronic elements to create a unique signature style—and how discipline, mentorship, and mindset have shaped his career.

🎶 A must-listen for producers, DJs, and artists serious about building a long-term, purpose-driven music career.

EP32 – YoBoy Love: From Bedroom Rhymes to Breakthrough Vibes (Interview in Punjabi)22 Apr 202500:26:51

In this episode of The Raj Kaul Podcast, Raj Kaul connects with rising Punjabi artist YoBoy Love — an independent voice emerging from Kapurthala, India, whose heartfelt lyrics and gritty sound are catching serious attention.

We dive into YoBoy’s journey from school stageperformances to crafting tracks in his bedroom, inspired by his family’s musical roots. His debut song "Yaad" sparked unexpected love, setting him on a path of continuous self-discovery and hustle.

Love talks candidly about:

  • Growing up around dhols, harmoniums, and live music
  • The role his dad and uncle played in shaping his sound
  • The emotions behind his first viral track
  • The ups and downs of recording in makeshift studios vs. pro setups
  • How acting and visual storytelling tie into his music vision


He even performs a raw, emotional verse live — giving a glimpse of the depth behind his lyrics. With a growing Instagram fanbase and an upcoming UK show, YoBoy Love is a name to watch. Whether you’re into Punjabi music, indie vibes, or just love hearing how real artists break through the noise, this one’s for you.

🎧 Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and all major platforms.
📱 Follow @YoBoy_Love and @RajKaulOfficial for more updates.

EP42 – Devinder J: From Bedroom Beats to Reggae Charts w/ Apache Indian 🚀30 Sep 202501:16:27

From handing out demo CDs on buses in the 90s to becoming an in-house producer for Apache Indian, Devinder J’s story is pure resilience. In this episode of The Raj Kaul Podcast, Devinder opens up about being rejected by record labels, the struggles of the UK Bhangra scene, and how persistence finally led him to producing reggae and Punjabi fusion hits alongside legends.

We dive into:

  • His Wolverhampton roots & early inspirations from The Sahotas

  • The struggles of breaking into the Asian music industry without support

  • Why radio & UK stations failed a generation of British talent

  • How Apache Indian changed everything for him

  • The future of UK Bhangra, Splice culture, and whether today’s hits will last

If you care about UK music history, real stories of graft, and the future of Punjabi & reggae fusion, this is one episode you don’t want to miss.

🔔 Subscribe for more conversations with artists pushing musical excellence: @RajKaulPodcast

Follow Devinder J:
Instagram – @officialdevinderj
TikTok – @officialdevinderj
Facebook – Official Devinder J

Follow Raj Kaul:
Instagram – @rajkaulmusic
TikTok – @rajkaulmusic
Spotify – Raj Kaul

EP44 – Harvey Sahota: Obsession, Craft & the Pursuit of the Perfect Sound 🎧🔥28 Oct 202501:16:21

Raj Kaul sits down with Harvey Sahota to unpack what true musical excellence looks like in practice. From being an East London kid obsessed with UK Bhangra to befriending and learning directly from the Sahotas, Harvey shares how his fixation on sound, rhythm, and feel turned into mastery.

They explore his early influences, the discipline behind recreating the Sahotas’ legendary sound, and how obsession can fuel artistic growth. A must-listen for musicians chasing perfection, authenticity, and heart in their craft.

🎧 Part 2 coming soon!

EP43 – Jason Bavanandan: Staying True When the Hype Fades 🎧💭14 Oct 202500:54:43

In Episode 43, Jason Bavanandan returns to The Raj Kaul Podcast for one of the realest and most honest conversations about the music industry yet.

From working with Calvin Harris, Usher, and Noel Gallagher to reflecting on fame, family, and purpose — Jason reveals what most artists never admit out loud.

🎙️ In this episode:

  • The truth about life after the hype

  • How ego and money can quietly kill creativity

  • Why the UK scene lost its spark

  • The importance of honesty, imperfection, and family

  • The new era of authenticity in music

If you’re an artist or creative searching for meaning over fame — this episode is a must-watch.

📍 Follow Jason: @bavanandan
📍 Follow Raj: @rajkaulofficial

EP49: Simon Singh - From Darlaston to the World Stage: A Life in the UK Bhangra Scene06 Jan 202601:25:57

What does it take to go from tapping on a school desk with a pencil to playing on stage with the biggest Bhangra stars in the world?

This week, Raj Kaul is joined by dhol maestro Simon Singh. Simon shares the incredible story of his self-taught career, beginning in the small town of Darlaston and leading to international tours across Dubai, Australia, and the USA.

In this wide-ranging conversation, we discuss the evolution of the UK Bhangra sound, the intense discipline of the DCS live sessions, and the unforgettable moment he had to save a tour in the US by going "undercover". Simon also shares his philosophy on "Musical Excellence" and why the soul of the music must always come from the heart.

Key Topics:

* Teaching yourself dhol via VHS and cassette tapes.

* The transition from the wedding DJ scene to international band tours.

* Working with legends like Balwinder Safri and Shin DCS.

* The future of music in the age of AI.

EP48: Harvey Sahota (Part 2) – Timing, Talent & Surviving the Bhangra Industry23 Dec 202501:22:43

Episode 48 continues the powerful conversation with Harvey Sahota, diving deeper into the realities of the Bhangra and Punjabi music industry — from early success and industry setbacks to reinvention, live musicianship, and finding relevance in a fast-changing digital world.

Harvey opens up about:

  • Why timing can matter as much as talent

  • The harsh economics of live gigs, bands, and promoters

  • The difference between studio singers and true live performers

  • Building (and losing) bands — and why excellence has a cost

  • Winning Best Band, going viral, and being signed by Kiss Records

  • How COVID, social media, and consistency reshaped the industry

  • Why Punjabi pop is quietly coming full circle

  • What musical excellence really means in today’s world

This is a raw, honest, musician-to-musician conversation about resilience, craft, legacy, and why the journey doesn’t end just because the industry changes.

🎧 Essential listening for artists, producers, and anyone serious about music beyond hype.

EP47 – Danish Veer: Becoming an Artist in the Shadow of a Legend09 Dec 202500:54:03

In this emotional and revealing episode, Raj Kaul sits down with Danish Veer, the youngest son of Punjabi music icon Ustad Sabar Koti, to share a powerful story of identity, loss, resilience, and finding his voice as an artist.

Danish Veer opens up about:

  • Being raised by his aunt in Amritsar and growing up away from his father

  • Seeing Sabar Koti more as a legendary artist than a parent

  • Learning tabla in a gurdwara and developing his craft through self-guided training

  • Reconnecting with music after his father’s passing

  • Moving to Canada and adapting to a completely new culture

  • The viral reel that brought him into the spotlight

  • His debut album The Origin blending Punjabi and Bollywood influences

  • What musical excellence truly means to him

A raw, inspiring, and heartfelt episode that shines a light on the person behind the legacy — not just Sabar Koti’s son, but Danish Veer, the artist.

👉 Follow Danish Veer on Instagram:
@danishv.ig

EP46 – Apache Indian: The Q&A Special | Real Talk, Legacy & Lessons25 Nov 202501:35:52

This episode of The Raj Kaul Podcast is brought to you by Apache Indian Brands 🍹
Use code BOOM4U at checkout to get a special discount — valid until 31st December!

In this exclusive Q&A Special, UK legend Apache Indian returns to The Raj Kaul Podcast to answer YOUR questions — unfiltered and straight from the heart.

From Boom Shack-A-Lak to Om Namah Shivaya, from Handsworth roots to Hollywood soundtracks, Apache reflects on his journey, legacy, and the state of the UK Asian music scene.

🗣️ Topics include:

  • The truth behind “Boom Shack-A-Lak” and its Hollywood success

  • Collaborations with Asha Bhosle, A.R. Rahman & Shaggy

  • Apache’s take on the decline of UK Bhangra’s infrastructure

  • How reggae, community, and Handsworth shaped his sound

  • Exclusive fan Q&A — unreleased collabs, memories & lessons

🎙️ Subscribe for more real talk on music, legacy & creativity.

#TheRajKaulPodcast #ApacheIndian #UKBhangra #BoomShackALak #PunjabiMusic #Reggae #DesiMusic #RealTalk #RajKaul #MusicLegacy #Podcast #ApacheIndianBrands #BOOM4U #TheSpiritsClub

Ep45 – Lightnin MC: The First Punjabi Rapper? Legacy, Rivalries & Reinvention 🎤🔥11 Nov 202501:39:15

In this explosive episode of The Raj Kaul Podcast, Lightnin MC sits down with Raj to share his untold story — from his early days in the UK Bhangra scene to his claim of being the first Punjabi rapper.

He opens up about the early RDB days, the evolution of Punjabi rap, his creative rivalries, and the personal reinvention that’s brought him back to music today.

🎙️ Expect honesty, controversy, and nostalgia as Lightnin MC reflects on a journey that shaped UK Punjabi music before it became global.

👇 Chapters & Topics
00:00 – Introduction
03:15 – The birth of Punjabi rap
10:45 – Working with RDB and the UK scene
18:30 – Legacy, rivalries & creative differences
27:50 – The evolution of Lightnin MC
36:20 – Reinvention and return to music
45:00 – Final reflections & advice for new artists

🎧 Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts & all major platforms.
📱 Follow @rajkaulmusic on Instagram, TikTok & YouTube for clips and updates.

#TheRajKaulPodcast — Where Music Meets Mastery.

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