Music is a powerful apparatus — "One that can help preserve culture, and can help support an identity for smaller communities"- Darren D'Souza
Introduction
ECP-FG members recently caught up with Berlin-based Indian artist, Darren John D’Souza, who currently releases music under the name of Bérod. Originally from Goa, India, Darren discovered his passion for music from a young age. He is a self-taught artist that currently studies at dBS Music School in Berlin.
Background
As a Berliner, Darren has delved into the world of electronic music and used the movement to create his own sound. He believes that techno music brings people together and unites them on the dance floor. As history has shown, youth from both East and West Germany converged on the space cleared by the wall’s demolition to party — and their preferred soundtrack was techno. This medium was a means of people to communicate with their bodies, rather than words. The genre provided a clean canvas for the youth to feel a part of society in a way that perhaps politics did not.
What inspired you to take up electronic music?
’The idea of producing music at home, with aspects of DIY involved, was the characteristic of electronic music that caught my attention.’
Needless to say, Berlin is an ever-changing city that is open to all kinds of differences. Regardless of what you search for, you will find something that accommodates you. Before his move, Darren largely practiced acoustic music. As a child, he performed at family functions in India and says that it is an integral part of his culture.
"It (electronic) is a medium that grounds people to the land and brings people from various backgrounds together". Darren says. He believes that music is a powerful apparatus — "One that can help preserve culture, and can help support an identity for smaller communities". Alternatively, it can also be used as a means of propaganda and manipulation. Songs are laced with meaningful messages, making them a very valuable tool.
Introducing the music of a certain culture to the global market can be a powerful way of opening up the cultural bodies of a country to the world. BTS in South Korea or the Beatles collaborating with Pandit Ravi Shankar from India serve as primary examples." - Darren John D'Souza
Origins
In 2019, Darren released his first EP, Four. This musical concoction was a collaboration between him and fellow college mate, Radhika Mohite. Together, they decided to call themselves, Feathers in Space. This was the duo's first indie-pop project, which originated in Pune, Maharashtra. Darren says, ‘Four is a result of their experiences, thoughts, and reminiscence about the weather, self-exploration, and consumerism. The artists have listed the likes of Bon Iver, Ed Sheeran, Passenger, Prateek Kuhad, and Chet Faker as some of their influences.
Is there something you wish to achieve through this music ?
‘My intention for music is twofold. Firstly it is a medium for the communication of ideas, thoughts, beliefs, values, in a manner that is more subjective. Secondly, popular music tends to ignore traditions and cultures that do not immediately bring a stream of profit. My goal is to develop my music in order to gradually change this perception of what music is, and what it can be, especially in my own country.’
Music as Diplomacy
Additionally, Darren believes that music is an essential tool of diplomacy. He says, "Introducing the music of a certain culture to the global market can be a powerful way of opening up the cultural bodies of a country to the world. BTS in South Korea or the Beatles collaborating with Pandit Ravi Shankar from India serve as primary examples. Similarly, certain songs/music can develop into an anthem for a cause or movement, and anti-Apartheid music in South Africa illustrates this. Lastly, it also helps raise money for developing nations that are hit by natural disasters — We are the World by Various Artists for Haiti.’
These days you can find Darren making magic in the studio, grooving to Berlin’s techno scene or just grabbing a beer or two with his friends. Find Darren on his facebook page or Soundcloud account.
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