A groundbreaking venture has emerged in the Indian music scene, as Sony Music Entertainment India and Tiger Baby Films announce the launch of Tiger Baby Records. This joint-venture label is committed to promoting emerging artists, enhancing creative storytelling, and bridging connections between creators, audiences, and brands. Spearheaded by renowned filmmakers Zoya Akhtar and Reema Kagti, alongside singer-songwriter Ankur Tewari, the label merges their artistic vision with Sony Music's extensive global network. Early projects include a collaboration with jewelry brand Tanishq, featuring a wedding song directed by Reema Kagti, and the soundtrack for "Superboys of Malegaon," composed by Sachin-Jigar and written by Javed Akhtar. The label also introduces the "City Sessions" initiative, offering artists a platform for experimentation and collaboration at Mumbai’s Island City Studios.
Established figures in the film and music industries have joined forces to redefine how music is created and shared in India. The newly launched Tiger Baby Records leverages the expertise of its founders—Zoya Akhtar, Reema Kagti, and Ankur Tewari—and partners with Sony Music Entertainment India to bring an innovative approach to the country's burgeoning music landscape. One of the first projects under this banner features a wedding-themed composition from Abhishek-Ananya, performed by Poorvi Koutish, accompanied by a visually compelling music video helmed by Reema Kagti. Another highlight is the soundtrack for "Superboys of Malegaon," which tells the inspiring story of Nasir Shaikh, a filmmaker hailing from Malegaon, through the evocative melodies crafted by Sachin-Jigar and the poetic lyrics penned by Javed Akhtar.
Beyond these initial ventures, Tiger Baby Records aims to create original content curated by Ankur Tewari, celebrating a wide range of musical styles and highlighting the unique perspectives of up-and-coming artists. In line with its mission to support new talent, the label has introduced the "City Sessions" initiative, set to take place at Mumbai’s iconic Island City Studios. This program invites singer-songwriters to refine their skills, collaborate with established musicians, and reach broader audiences. By fostering an environment where creativity can flourish without constraints, Tiger Baby Records hopes to inspire and amplify fresh voices within the industry.
The growth of the Indian music sector has been fueled by rising internet accessibility, increased disposable income, and a culturally diverse population with eclectic tastes. With this joint venture, Sony Music Entertainment India and Tiger Baby Records aim to tap into these trends, using Sony's expansive resources and the distinctive creative strategies of Tiger Baby to nurture a new generation of artists. According to Vinit Thakkar, Managing Director of Sony Music Entertainment India, this partnership signifies a transformative era in Indian music, where innovative storytelling and boundary-pushing collaborations dominate the scene.
This venture marks a significant step forward in the evolution of Indian music. Through the efforts of Zoya Akhtar, Reema Kagti, Ankur Tewari, and Sony Music Entertainment India, Tiger Baby Records not only seeks to elevate the work of independent, local talent but also to represent the rich diversity of sounds across the subcontinent on a global stage. The "City Sessions" initiative exemplifies the label's commitment to providing opportunities for artists to grow and connect, ensuring that the power of music continues to resonate widely and deeply.