QK: ‘Hip-Hop Was Always in My Veins’

Hip-hop artist Aarya Jadhao aka QK has just released her newest song “Le Jaa,” via Sony Music India. We caught up with QK and talked about her journey as an artist, the new song, how a number of women are taking to hip-hop, what she’s got planned for the future and more. Read below.

You hold a unique skill as an artist wherein you’re able to sing as well as rap – when did you become aware that you had this trait?

I wrote my first rap in 2012 and it was Honey Singh’s female version of ‘Breakup Party.’ Back then I had no idea that my writing had that power and writing, composing, was not my priority. I used to write as a hobby until I met with an accident and had nothing but the ceiling to see. I used to listen to Indian hip-hop, but it was then in 2018 that I realized I have something to offer to the world through my writing. I wrote my first rap on the hospital bed and didn’t stop. Hip-hop was always in my veins, and I finally recognized it. I am happy to share my art with the world now and yes writing, composing, and performing is my top priority now.

What can you tell us about your early years in music and artists that influenced you?

I was on the hospital bed listening to ‘Mantoiyat’ by Raftar when it inspired me to the core. I felt like women should share their perspective through their art so that a lot of other women can feel inspired and share their point of view. It started with underground hip-hop and then I hopped into the commercial zone. It’s amazing how taking my writing seriously has shaped me. I struggled and had my own hustle with some frauds talking about hip-hop when I didn’t know much about it. But that’s how you learn and gradually I ate hip-hop at lunch, dinners, and breakfasts! I adopted it and don’t get me wrong I am still learning.

What was your experience like being part of MTV Hustle 2.0?

MTV Hustle 2.0 was a challenge. Never have I ever had a deadline for writing my songs and learning them. I think I became a better writer after the show. The best thing MTV Hustle 2.0 gave me was the knowledge of what Indian audiences really expect from me. I am grateful!

With more women rappers in India cropping up, do you think there’s more representation for the genre now than it was five years ago or do you feel that there’s still a lot more groundwork to be done for women?

I absolutely feel there’s more representation for the genre now that the new generation is adopting hip-hop like its baby. I think women in India are being introduced to hip-hop and finding their ways to hustle. Yes, it’s a moot point but I think in the next 10 years there would be so many tremendously talented women in Indian hip-hop that the world awaits.

What can you tell us about being part of Rolling Stone India’s Women in Creativity event?

The Event made me feel like I belong which Rolling Stone India never fails to provide. I lived every moment with so many powerful women in creativity. It was my honor to be at the event and to perform in front of India’s most ambitious artists.

What’s something about creativity you’d like to demystify?

One might’ve been born with creativity, but he or she has to shape it just like his or her character, only then does your creativity pay you back.

What qualities does it take to achieve success in a creative field?

Consistency, evolution, non-quitting attitude, positive mindset, practice, recognizing and picking the right opportunities and patience.

What can you tell us about your new song “Le Jaa” and what do you have planned ahead for the rest of the year?

The song has been super special to me as I have attempted something very different from what I usually create. I am looking forward to creating more music that resonates with my vibe and connects with my fans.

Stream “Le Jaa” on Spotify below: