What I’ve Been Listening To: TUSHAR

TUSHAR is a fan of Royel Otis and Tears For Fears, and the guitar gave him a second chance at loving something again.

Have listen to TUSHAR’s new single before learning more about the Adelaide-based indie-pop artist.

https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/1613584167

Who is TUSHAR and how did the namesake come about?

T: My beautiful parents named me TUSHAR and I thought it was a cool name to use while trying to break my music into the western culture. I moved to Australia when I was six years old, and growing up here, I was made to feel like my name was ‘weird’ and there were some days I hated it. I guess growing up with predominantly white friends, I was the odd one out. Now that I’m all grown up, I absolutely LOVE my name and I wear it proudly.

What artists or bands are on your must-listen to list lately and why?

T: I have been hitting the replay button on ‘Royel Otis’. I absolutely love these guys. Everything they put out is straight fire and I can’t wait to be on the same lineup as them one day! That’s a goal of mine I would like to achieve. Their tracks ‘Motels’ and ‘Sofa King’ are my top picks. Go and check them out, it’s a good time!

When you go into the recording studio to work on new material, what are your must-haves?

T: My brain needs to be functioning. I hate feeling tired, so walking in with a coffee is a must. I love packing fruit and muesli bars to keep me going. I’m not a fan of having too many breaks. My producer and I have a challenge where we try to start, finish, and record a new track every Monday. It’s been an amazing method of speed writing, where I find I don’t have the time to have writer’s block.

Which song, or songs, of yours would you recommend to a first-time listener and why?

T: Have a look at my track ‘In Our Own Backyard’. It’s a beautiful track about being grateful with the environment your surround yourself with. Very heartwarming and perfect for your sunny drives.

I also think my latest single ‘Bloodshot Eyes’ is a must listen to. This track will get you dancing around the house!

Which song of someone’s else’s (artist or band) would you have liked to feature on and why?

T: I would’ve loved to have featured on Tears For Fears, ‘Everybody Wants To Rule The World’. Every time this track comes on, it gives me the perfect hit of nostalgia and good times.

What led you into becoming a musician and why do you keep making music?

T: When I was 16, I was diagnosed with a form of arthritis. My passion was sports, but unfortunately it was cut short. It took a couple years of depression, then my sister finally stepped in and asked me if I’d like to use her guitars as a form of therapy. She taught me ‘Wonderwall’ and a John Mayer song (I can’t remember which one). I remember sitting in her room while she got me to play these songs. I’ll never forget that moment, because that guitar gave me a second chance at loving something again.