Anoushka Shankar Reveals Playlist Secrets: From Norah Jones to Massive Attack!

My First Musical Love
The track “Tana Mana” by my father, Ravi Shankar, marks my earliest affection for music. During the 1980s, he was exploring the use of synthesizers and produced an album by the same name, which stands out as unique in his collection of works. The main track from this album would ignite my imagination; I envisaged a village celebration and would mimic the scene in my living room, performing for my mother.

My First Music Purchase
I acquired “Whatta Man” by Salt-N-Pepa during my teenage years in California, a time when R&B was prevalent. I found myself frequently purchasing music by Salt-N-Pepa and TLC.

The Tune that Transformed My Life
While at Luz Records in California, they played “Teardrop” by Massive Attack, and the opening beat elicited a profound reaction from me.

My Morning Anthem
The song “Bedia” by Rajery lifts my spirits each morning. It connects to the part of my heart that cherishes African music, with its vibrant and unreservedly joyful melodies.

My Karaoke Confession
I absolutely detest karaoke. The concept holds no appeal for me, and I find no joy in it. I recall a party in my early thirties where everyone sang along to a Coldplay track, and I was possibly the only one who didn’t know the lyrics.

A Song I Know by Heart
“I Swear” by All-4-One is a song whose lyrics I can recite without fail. At 13, during my first romantic encounter, I slow-danced to this song. Even though he was in India and we communicated via letters, the song became an obsession, and I would listen to it on repeat. Recently, when it played, I couldn’t help but perform it, much to my children’s embarrassment.

A Chapter Closed in Music
I find it difficult to listen to anything from my first three albums. My debut album was released when I was 17, though recorded at 16. Despite being a fantastic opportunity, those recordings lack the passion that distinguishes them. I took a hiatus and returned with “Rise” at age 24, which marked a period where I truly enjoyed my musical creations.

The Ultimate Song for Romance
Many have shared that “Come Away With Me” by Norah Jones, my sister, is their go-to track for intimate moments. While it’s not a choice for my personal moments, it’s evidently a popular one for others.

Perfect Party Tune
“Jimmy Jimmy Jimmy Aaja” by Parvati Khan perfectly captures the fusion of Bollywood and early disco vibes from the 70s and 80s. This track never fails to get everyone on the dance floor.

A Song That Brings Tears
“Still Feel It All” by Maro brings me to tears with its sparse arrangement and the emotional space in her voice. It’s beautifully minimalistic, allowing the emotions to resonate more profoundly.

My Final Farewell Song
I would like “Shanti-Mantra” by Ravi Shankar played at my funeral. This piece, a favourite of my father’s, is a prayer for peace and carries a sacred, uplifting spirit.

Anoushka Shankar’s Chapter III: We Return to Light is currently available. She is also the guest director at the Brighton festival, running from May 3 to May 26.