Rishikesh, the yoga capital of the world, continues to attract artists and musicians from across the globe, each inspired by its unique spiritual and cultural essence. Recently, Anything Legit had the pleasure of interviewing Andrea, a talented singer-songwriter from Italy, who shared his incredible journey of music, culture, and connection in Rishikesh.
Meet Andrea: A Musical Soul from South Italy
Andrea, hailing from the enchanting landscapes of Italy, is a professional musician, singer, and songwriter. His music reflects the deep-rooted traditions of southern Italy, blended seamlessly with global influences.
"I try to take our roots and bring them into the present. I love to mix our culture with others from around the world," Andrea shared with a smile, his passion for music evident in every word.
His journey to Rishikesh, however, added a new dimension to his artistry. “India’s ancient and spiritual culture resonates deeply with me. Here, I’ve found a way to imbue my music with a sense of spirit and presence, which is something I feel in every moment of singing or dancing.”
A Transformative Experience in Rishikesh
For Andrea, Rishikesh was a revelation. The serene environment, coupled with the absence of alcohol or drugs in social gatherings, created a space for authentic expression.
“Everybody here, without alcohol or drugs, can express themselves. This is so great for me," he noted, appreciating the genuine energy that surrounded him during his performances.
One of the most memorable highlights of his stay was his participation in an open mic event at 12 Monks, a local hub for artists.
“I went there after my yoga retreat, opened the mic, and sang. After that, everyone asked me to play at more concerts. In five days, I performed three times in three different concerts. It was amazing to see people connecting with my music, even though I speak a different language.”
Music: A Lifelong Companion
When asked about his musical journey, Andrea reflected on its timeless presence in his life.
"I don’t know when I started, but music has always been with me. It’s a need, a way to express what’s inside me," he shared thoughtfully.
Back in Italy, Andrea’s profession as a musician isn’t without challenges, but he embraces it wholeheartedly.
“It’s hard, but I love it. This is my way,” he said with conviction, a true testament to his dedication.
Jamming Across Cultures
One of Andrea’s goals in Rishikesh was to collaborate with artists from around the world, and the city didn’t disappoint.
“At 12 Monks, I met incredible musicians and beautiful people. To jam with Indian artists and those from different countries was such a fulfilling experience,” Andrea shared.
He described how the energy of Rishikesh transformed his perspective, making him realize the universality of music.
“Music here is everywhere. It’s in the air, in the people, and in the culture. I even fell in love with Indian mantras and traditional music. It’s all so inspiring.”
A Message for Rishikesh
Andrea left us with a heartfelt message for the Rishikesh community.
“Go on with this vibe! Appreciate life and music deeply. Back home in Italy, every party revolves around alcohol. Here, it’s different. You can dive within yourself and express your true self. Don’t let commercial things overshadow the spiritual roots that make Rishikesh so special.”
Final Thoughts
Andrea’s journey reminds us of the universal language of music and its power to bridge cultures. His time in Rishikesh was a symphony of connection, inspiration, and expression. As he puts it, "Rishikesh, call me again!"
We’re grateful to Andrea for sharing his story and music with us. His experiences are a beautiful reflection of how Rishikesh continues to inspire souls across the world.
Want to hear Andrea’s music or visit the open mic scene in Rishikesh? Stay tuned for more updates from Anything Legit, your guide to authentic local experiences.
© Mantramugdh Communications And Consultancy (OPC) Private Limited