Thiarajxtt is an innovative music producer and artist who has made waves in the industry with his unique sound and creative vision. Known for co-producing hits like Shubh’s “We Rollin” and collaborating with icons such as Diljit Dosanjh and Jassa Dhillon, Thiarajxtt has cemented his reputation as a dynamic force in modern Punjabi music. In a candid conversation with the Pooja Kashyap of GrooveNexus he talks about how his work blends traditional elements with contemporary beats, bringing a fresh energy to the genre. With a deep commitment to honing his craft and an eye for pushing musical boundaries, Thiarajxtt is redefining what it means to be a producer in today’s global music scene.
Pooja Kashyap – From working with Diljit Dosanjh for Ghost to Shubh for “We Rollin” and Jassa Dhillon, you’ve shaped several viral hits. How has your approach to producing evolved through these collaborations?
thiarajxtt – My production style has definitely evolved through these collaborations. With Shubh, on tracks like “We Rollin’,” “No Love,” “Elevated,” and “Offshore,” I handled co-production, mixing, and mastering. “We Rollin’” was the first track I ever mixed myself, which marked a significant starting point in my journey. It reinforced the idea that experience is the best teacher.
“After Hours” was a turning point. I had a very specific sound in mind, a sonic vision I was determined to achieve. That project pushed me to refine my technical skills and trust my instincts.
“Spain” with Jassa Dhillon was a happy accident. We created a raw demo in my home studio, capturing a spontaneous jam session. The beat and vocals were both rough sketches, recorded on a simple mic I typically use for capturing ideas. When Jassa wanted to include it on his album, I was hesitant, given its unfinished state. We were in different countries, so I sent him the raw version, expecting we’d need to re-record and refine it. To my surprise, he loved it as is. It was a lesson in trusting the magic of raw creativity.
For Diljit Dosanjh’s Ghost album, the track “Kinni Kinni” presented a unique challenge. Inspired by the global success of Rema’s “Calm Down,” I envisioned a similar Afrobeat vibe for “Kinni Kinni.” I created multiple versions, experimenting with different sounds, before landing on the final version. My focus was on crafting a unique sonic landscape that would resonate with a global audience.
Pooja Kashyap – You mention wanting to bring producers into the spotlight. What do you think needs to change in the music industry to better recognize the role of producers?
thiarajxtt – A major issue is the lack of awareness among producers about their rights, particularly regarding royalties and organizations like PROs (Performing Rights Organizations). When I started, I was completely in the dark about these things. Having experienced those struggles firsthand, I want to help new producers understand how to collect their royalties and avoid exploitation. Many producers prefer to stay behind the scenes, which is perfectly fine. But for those who want to step into the spotlight, there should be avenues for them to do so. We see this in mainstream music with producers like Metro Boomin and DJ Khaled leading projects. Even in the past, Punjabi producers like Dr. Zeus and Aman Hayer took on prominent roles. We need to revive that spirit and empower producers to be the face of their projects if they choose. There are no limits to what a producer can achieve; it’s about creating a system that supports and recognizes their multifaceted contributions.
Pooja Kashyap – Looking back at “We Rollin’” in collaboration with Shubh, how has your sound evolved since then, and what core elements of your style have remained constant?
thiarajxtt – “We Rollin’” holds a special place for me because it was the first track I mixed and mastered entirely on my own. Even then, I was aiming for a unique, smooth sound, and that’s something I still prioritize in my mixes. I consistently receive feedback praising the smoothness and clarity of my work. It’s because I meticulously remove any harsh frequencies, ensuring that each element sits perfectly in the mix. While my sound has evolved and diversified since “We Rollin’,” that commitment to a clean, polished, and non-abrasive mix has remained a constant.
Pooja Kashyap – Many producers find it challenging to transition to being the main artist. How did you navigate this shift, and how does it feel to have your name front and center on this project?
thiarajxtt – In the beginning, I was always behind the scenes. On early projects with Shubh, my brother Irman and I were heavily involved, even leading the creative vision, but we didn’t receive equal credit. We were new to the industry and didn’t fully understand how things worked. We knew we wanted to be primary contributors, but we hadn’t yet learned how to navigate the business side of things.
Observing how producers in mainstream music, like Metro Boomin, lead projects was a turning point. We realized we could do the same. That shift in mindset, that understanding of a producer’s potential, was crucial. From there, I started taking on more prominent roles, including projects with Diljit Dosanjh and Coke Studio. Now, with my EP, If The Sun Had a Dark Side, I’m both the primary artist and the producer. It feels incredibly fulfilling to finally be at the forefront, leading my own project and showcasing my artistic vision.
Pooja Kashyap – Are there any cultural elements or traditional sounds from Punjab that you feel are underrepresented and want to highlight in your future work?
thiarajxtt – I grew up listening to a lot of UK Punjabi music, and I’ve always been captivated by the way they incorporate traditional instruments, especially the dhol. That raw energy is infectious. I feel like that sound is less prominent in contemporary Punjabi music, and I’d love to explore it further. Similarly, other native instruments like the sarangi are underrepresented. My catalog so far spans genres like Afrobeats, Hip Hop, Pop, and R&B. Now, I’m eager to create something that honours my cultural roots. I’m experimenting with blending native instrumentation with modern hip-hop beats, reviving those classic sounds that resonate deeply with me. I believe there are many others who miss those traditional elements, and I’m hoping to bring them back into the spotlight.
Pooja Kashyap – You’re helping redefine what Punjabi music can be for a global audience. What’s one misconception about Punjabi music that you’d love to change?
thiarajxtt – I’ve encountered a misconception that incorporating traditional instruments, like the dhol, somehow limits the appeal of Punjabi music. I’ve spoken with artists who actively avoid using such instruments, believing they’re not “modern” enough. I strongly disagree. I grew up listening to those sounds, and they’re a powerful part of our musical heritage. The recent track “Intense” from Diljit Dosanjh’s Ghost album, which features a prominent dhol and folk vibe, is a perfect example of how traditional elements can be seamlessly integrated into contemporary music. Ultimately, the focus should be on creating good music, regardless of whether the sound is traditional or Western. It’s about what resonates with the listeners.
Pooja Kashyap – Your EP title, If the Sun Had a Dark Side, is intriguing. Is there a personal connection to the concept of duality or exploring hidden facets in your music?
thiarajxtt – The title If the Sun Had a Dark Side reflects the idea of revealing hidden facets, and this EP is very much about that. It features my twin brother, Irman, who’s always worked alongside me behind the scenes on projects, and Indrr Bajwa, the talented writer behind tracks like “Haas Haas” and several songs on Diljit Dosanjh’s Ghost album. I wanted to bring them to the forefront, to give them the recognition they deserve for their incredible contributions.
This project is also deeply personal, driven by heartfelt creativity. From a production standpoint, the beats feature original melodies, no samples, representing a distinct evolution in my sound. My aim is to constantly explore new sonic territories, and If The Sun Had A Dark Side marks a significant step in that ongoing journey.
Pooja Kashyap – You’ve worked with icons and emerging artists alike. How do you balance your creative vision with the unique style and strengths of each collaborator?
thiarajxtt – For me, collaboration is all about the energy and vibe. Good music flows naturally when there’s a genuine connection with the artist, regardless of whether they’re a rising star or an established icon. In my experience, the best results come from organic creative synergy, not forced processes or external pressures. So, whether I’m working with someone new or a seasoned artist, I prioritize that natural flow and focus on creating a positive and inspiring environment.
Pooja Kashyap – What role does family play in your music? How has collaborating with your twin brother, Irman, added a unique dimension to this EP?
thiarajxtt – My family’s support means the world to me. I always share my music with my dad for feedback. He has a great ear, and his insights have been invaluable. There have been times when I’ve been unsure about a track, and his encouragement has made all the difference. For example, with “No Love,” I was struggling to connect with the lyrics because it’s a sad song, and I tend to avoid listening to melancholic music. My dad, however, felt strongly about the song’s potential, and he was right. Similarly, with “Spain,” I had some doubts, but his reassurance gave me the confidence to release it.
My twin brother, Irman, is my constant collaborator. He’s involved in all my projects, often providing vocal references for artists. Having him as a featured artist on this EP felt completely natural. It was the same creative process we always follow, just with him taking a more prominent role.
Pooja Kashyap – The track, “What They Doin’,” has an unapologetically bold message. Was there a specific moment or experience that inspired you to create this song?
thiarajxtt – The creation of this EP was a really organic process. I sent around six or seven beats to Irman and Indrr, and they jammed in the studio. Within just a few hours, they sent back six completed song ideas! I was amazed by their speed and creativity. They told me the beats inspired them, and each idea had a distinct vibe.
“What They Doin’” is a playful track. It centres around a girl asking a group of guys what they’re up to, and their response is a casual “We do tad tad.” The meaning is open to interpretation. It could be about a kid getting into mischief, or something else entirely. It’s not meant to be taken too seriously; it’s just a fun, laid-back song.
Pooja Kashyap – As a producer, you’re an architect of sound. What’s a unique or unusual sound you’d love to incorporate in a future track that people wouldn’t expect?
thiarajxtt – I’d love to create a high-energy Punjabi rock track. I’m a big fan of rock music, and I think fusing that raw energy with Punjabi lyrics and composition would be powerful. It could be something completely fresh and unexpected for both Punjabi and South Asian music.
Pooja Kashyap – What’s something you’ve learned from the artists you’ve collaborated with that has changed your approach to production?
thiarajxtt – A valuable lesson I learned came from a session with Jassa Dhillon. We recorded the initial vocals for “Spain” in just one take. When Jassa returned to India, he asked me to send him the track immediately for release. I was hesitant because the recording was raw and unpolished. However, he insisted, and I sent it. To my surprise, the song became a huge hit. That experience taught me that sometimes raw, unfiltered creativity can be incredibly powerful. It’s not always about achieving a perfectly polished sound; sometimes, the imperfections are what makes a track special. It reinforced the idea that the music scene is unpredictable, and listeners connect with authenticity.
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