• Krish Manoj’s vision for Sri Lankan Tamil music

In the heart of Sri Lanka’s burgeoning Tamil music scene, Krish Manoj stands as a resolute force determined to elevate local Tamil artistry to new heights. With his independent spirit and unrelenting drive, Manoj has not only carved a niche for himself but has also become a vital player in a wider Tamil music renaissance.

His journey, punctuated by collaborations, challenges, and a vision for the future, reflects a deep commitment to bringing Tamil music to the forefront, both locally and internationally.

A vision for Tamil music

For Manoj, making Tamil music mainstream in Sri Lanka is more than just a personal ambition. It’s a mission. The global Tamil community has long been drawn to the vibrant soundscapes of South Indian cinema, but Manoj envisions a future where Sri Lankan Tamil music has its own distinct identity and reach.

“The Tamil indie scene has seen tremendous growth in countries like India and Malaysia,” he shared. “It’s time for Sri Lanka to thrive in this competitive industry. Music is not just about talent; it’s also about perseverance, strategy, and adaptability. Be open to collaboration and feedback, and don’t shy away from stepping outside your comfort zone to explore new sounds and ideas.”

At the same time, he noted that it’s important to stay grounded, as the journey is rarely smooth. He advised aspiring artists to surround themselves with positive influences, maintain their passion for music, and always focus on their growth as an artist.

Redefining Tamil music in Sri Lanka

Manoj is not your typical musician. With an unyielding passion for Tamil music and a relentless drive to make his mark, he has become a trailblazer for Sri Lanka’s Tamil indie music scene. From performing on international stages to collaborating with renowned artists, Manoj’s journey is one of dedication, creativity, and an unshakeable belief in the power of music to connect people.

Born into a country where the Tamil music industry often takes a backseat to its Sinhala counterpart, Manoj’s dream was ambitious: To bring Sri Lankan Tamil music into the mainstream. “The Tamil community globally has always been drawn to South Indian Tamil music, and while that’s understandable, I believe Sri Lankan Tamil music deserves a spotlight of its own,” he explained.

Collaboration has been central to Manoj’s vision. Whether working with Sri Lankan artists or teaming up with international musicians, he has always sought to blend diverse sounds and styles. He has had partnerships with Indian playback singers, such as the iconic Vijay Antony, that have elevated his profile. Performing with Antony’s team in India was a dream come true for Manoj, who still vividly recalls the surreal experience of walking on stage in Trichy.

“I never imagined that one day I’d be performing six of Vijay Antony’s hit songs in front of massive audiences. It was a moment of validation for all the hard work I’ve put in over the years,” he shared.

Manoj’s ability to seamlessly blend Tamil and Sinhala in his music has also set him apart. Collaborating with artists like Chamath Sangeeth and Kanchana Anuradhi, he has pushed linguistic and musical boundaries, crafting songs that resonate across communities.

Navigating challenges

Breaking into the predominantly Sinhala-dominated music market has been no small feat. “The initial stages of my career were marked by struggles I hadn’t anticipated. Reaching out to the right audience and establishing connections in the media was incredibly challenging,” he admitted.

Despite these hurdles, Manoj found solace and success in digital streaming platforms. With a strategic approach to platforms like YouTube and Spotify, he has managed to amplify his reach far beyond Sri Lanka’s borders. “Digital platforms not only allow us to share our music with the world but also help us earn from our craft, which is critical for independent artists,” he noted.

Manoj’s vision extends beyond his personal success. As a core member of Rap Indie, he has been instrumental in organising Tamil hip-hop shows across the globe. From London to Colombo, these performances aim to create a global stage for Sri Lankan Tamil music.

“Our goal is to make Sri Lankan Tamil music mainstream, and it’s heartening to see younger artists taking this forward. The future looks promising, and I believe the day when we achieve this dream is not far off,” he said with conviction.

Manoj’s journey is a testament to the power of persistence, innovation, and collaboration. As he continues to release new music, experiment with genres, and take the stage at home and abroad, he is not just creating songs, he is crafting a movement.

For aspiring musicians, Manoj’s story is an inspiration. It’s proof that with passion, hard work, and a clear vision, it’s possible to overcome even the most daunting challenges. “Music is not just what I do; it’s who I am. And I want that love for music to inspire others to dream big and take bold steps.”

Krish Manoj’s music is more than entertainment, it’s a bridge connecting cultures, communities, and hearts. And as he continues to break barriers, he’s ensuring that Sri Lankan Tamil music takes its rightful place on the global stage.