Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India]: Three-time Grammy Award winner Ricky Kej took to Instagram to extend heartfelt praise for music maestro AR Rahman, applauding his transformative role in shaping India’s diverse musical landscape and empowering generations of artists.
“No one in my opinion has done more for new talent, singers, instrumentalists, ensembles and for the general music landscape as much as Mr. @arrahman has,” Kej wrote, alongside a picture with Rahman.
Kej emphasized that Rahman has created opportunities across genres—from contemporary and folk to classical and pop—and has nurtured long-term careers for many musicians.
“He opened the door for musicians like me to have international audiences… It is sad that people attack him just because he is a soft target. This really needs to stop,” Kej added.
Ricky Kej’s Musical Journey:
- Grammy Wins:
- 2015: Winds of Samsara (Best New Age Album)
- 2022 & 2023: Divine Tides (with Stewart Copeland)
- 2025 Nomination: Break of Dawn, Kej’s latest, is his fourth Grammy nomination.
Describing Break of Dawn as his best work to date, Kej explained the album draws on ancient Indian raags and reflects a deep philosophical connection between mind, music, and nature.
“To purify the environment, we have to purify the mind first… this album is a wellness-based creation with deep roots in Indian philosophy.”
Rahman’s Upcoming Tour: Wonderment
The legendary composer is set to launch his global “Wonderment” tour, with the first show on May 3 at DY Patil Stadium, Mumbai.
“Every note, every rhythm, tells a story. I hope to merge tradition with innovation… Mumbai’s energy and spirit are unmatched,” Rahman said in a statement.
The Wonderment Tour aims to be a fusion of past and future, taking audiences through Rahman’s musical journey in a celebration of storytelling through sound.
In February, Rahman also made headlines by joining Ed Sheeran on stage during the latter’s Chennai concert, offering a surprise collaboration that thrilled fans.