Visually striking videos definitely amplify a song’s impact: Sumedh K

At just 21, composer-producer Sumedh K is steadily building his space in the Kannada music scene. His independent track Tulasi is gaining traction on social media for its immersive sound and striking visuals — even as he continues college. Last year, he composed for the Kannada hit Su from So, seamlessly moving between indie music and mainstream cinema. In a conversation, he speaks about shaping his signature style and taking things slow.‘The core idea for Tulasi was rooted in nature’Though Tulasi’s visuals have played a significant role in its popularity, Sumedh says the song existed long before the video. “A few production houses reached to making a music video for it. We were aligned on the idea — nature reclaiming its identity. The visuals in the video came after extensive brainstorming with the director and the team,” he says. For Sumedh, visuals are integral to how a song is received. “I had released a lyric video earlier and it did not gain much traction. Strong visuals help music reach more people. Audiences enjoy watching live-action or visually striking videos — they definitely amplify a song’s impact,” he explains.‘My signature style in music is a by-product of many processes’Sumedh’s musical journey began at 11 with tabla, which he says laid his foundation. He later explored both Carnatic and Hindustani vocals. “I didn’t stick to one thing consistently, but all those influences still shape my music,” he says. He largely taught himself production through “a lot of trial and error.” While listeners notice a recognisable thread in his work, he says it isn’t intentional. “The signature is a by-product of the process. Sometimes lyrics lead, sometimes the music does — it depends on the idea.” He adds that most of his tracks are concept-driven rather than standalone songs. “That’s probably where the signature comes from,” he says.‘I don’t want to push myself too hard right now’Now in his third year of a Bachelor of Design programme, specialising in user experience design, Sumedh is clear about pacing himself. “I want to maintain a balance. I might even take a break at some point; it’s too early to dive deep and risk burning out. Since I’m also studying, it can get overwhelming. I don’t want to push myself too hard,” he says. But, when asked about dream collaborations, Sumedh keeps his answer simple. “My independent music reflects my influences and beliefs. If I find someone similar, I’d love to collaborate; it’s about creating emotive art,” he says.'Film music has several boundaries, which indie music doesn’t have’Sumedh’s entry into mainstream cinema came via social media. “I had posted a reel of my track Daha. Raj sir (Raj B Shetty) saw it and sent me a DM about collaborating. I shared a few unreleased tracks, the team liked them, and we created scratch versions for the film,” he recalls. After working on Su from So, he noticed a clear difference between film and independent music. “In independent music, you express what you want. In films, you serve the narrative and work within boundaries,” he says, adding, “Even with those limitations, it was a great experience.” ‘Music and technology do go hand in hand’Known for layered production and distinct vocal textures, Sumedh sees singing and production as inseparable. “It’s easier for me to express an idea when it combines my vocal expression and production skills. They go hand in hand,” he explains. On debates around auto-tune and AI, he says, “Auto-tune has existed since the ’90s. It’s been part of the music people have consumed for decades. Today’s listeners are used to pitch-perfect sound.” He adds, “As long as technology doesn’t interfere with the idea you’re trying to express, it’s fine.”