Sasi The Don’s latest single Santhosham, meaning “happiness” in Tamil, brings a soulful fusion of reggae rhythms and Tamil musical elements, celebrating joy and unity. Known as Asia’s Reggae Ambassador, Sasi reflects on his journey, the inspiration behind the song, and his mission to spread…Read More
Known as Asia’s Reggae Ambassador, Sasi reflects on his journey, the inspiration behind the song, and his mission to spread positivity through music.
When it comes to spreading pure, unfiltered joy through music, Sasi The Don knows exactly how to do it. His latest single, Santhosham, which translates to Happiness or Joy, is already making waves with its infectious energy and uplifting vibes. A seamless fusion of reggae rhythms and Tamil musical elements, the track is a celebration of positivity and togetherness—something the world could always use more of.
Dubbed the Reggae Ambassador of Asia, Sasi The Don has had an illustrious career blending cultures and sounds. From his breakthrough in the Indian market with Hello India in 2016 to collaborating with icons like Dr. Alban, Apache Indian, Maxi Priest, and Anuradha Sriram, he has consistently pushed the boundaries of global music. Having shared the stage with legends like Shaggy, Jay Sean, and Diana King, Sasi has now set his sights on bridging generations through his music, and Santhosham is a shining testament to that mission.
With this track, Sasi taps into the unstoppable global rise of Tamil music, embracing both its roots and its modern evolution. His signature reggae sound, intertwined with Tamil musicality, creates an experience that’s as soulful as it is danceable. More than just a song, Santhosham is a movement of joy, proving that no matter the language or genre, music has the power to unite people across borders.
We caught up with Sasi The Don to dive into his journey, the making of Santhosham, and what lies ahead. If there’s one thing that’s clear, it’s that his mission to bring happiness through music has only just begun.
Here are the excerpts:
Your latest single, “Santhosham,” celebrates joy and positivity. What inspired this song, and what message do you hope it conveys to your listeners?
I believe what truly inspired me is how the world has evolved since the pandemic. The past few years have been a shared experience for everyone—bringing challenges, lessons, and opportunities for growth. We’ve all witnessed changes, reflected on what could have been better, and adapted to a new way of life. I think many of us have learned from our own mistakes, from others, and even from exposure to social media, which has played a huge role in shaping perspectives.
For me, the last five years have been a period of immense self-awareness and transformation. I’ve gained a deeper understanding of how to progress, how to navigate difficult times, and how to make things happen differently. These experiences have shaped who I am today—grateful for the journey, appreciative of my growth, and inspired by the lessons learned.
This reflection is what ultimately led me to create my song Sandosham. The word itself holds a profound meaning in Tamil—it represents joy, contentment, and a sense of fulfillment. In fact, it’s often used as a greeting between Indians, carrying warmth and a deep-rooted significance. I felt that Sandosham was the perfect title because it encapsulates the essence of what I wanted to express through my music.
Through this song, I want people to realize that joy is meant to be shared. Nothing truly meaningful happens in isolation. Success, happiness, and life itself become richer when we celebrate together, collaborate, and lift each other up. Trying to do everything alone is a long and exhausting journey—I’ve learned that firsthand.
Even in my music video, there’s a moment that beautifully captures this idea. There’s a scene that portrays Sandosham as the act of sharing a piece of cake with those who matter. Because, in a way, sharing a piece of cake symbolizes sharing a piece of yourself. It’s a simple yet powerful gesture, representing love, connection, and togetherness.
Ultimately, that’s the message I hope reaches people through my song—that true happiness is found in togetherness, in uplifting one another, and in embracing the joy that comes from meaningful human connections.
“Santhosham” blends reggae with Tamil musical elements beautifully. How do you approach creating music that bridges such distinct traditions?
I think of Tamil and reggae as two integral parts of my musical identity. Tamil is, of course, the language I’m most versatile in, while reggae is a genre I deeply understand—from its rhythms to its creation process. Blending these two elements comes naturally to me, making my music both unique and seamless.
But it’s more than just the language. When you incorporate South Indian musical elements into reggae, that’s where the real magic happens. This fusion is something I’ve been experimenting with since the very beginning of my journey, and it’s something I take immense pride in. It gives my music a distinctive edge—something that sets me apart from other artists.
I enjoy pushing boundaries and creating something that sounds fresh, something that stands out. Not everyone can merge these styles in an authentic way, but for me, it’s a passion, a signature, and a way to create a musical trend that resonates with both my identity and my audience. It’s not just about being different—it’s about crafting something meaningful, something that leaves an impact. And that’s exactly what drives me as an artist.
The title translates to “happiness” in Tamil. What does happiness mean to you personally, and how is that reflected in the song?
To me, Santhosham means happiness—but beyond just the word, it represents the way I choose to live my life. Happiness, for me, is about staying on top of things, both in my personal and professional life. One of my greatest sources of joy is my 11-year-old daughter. She completes and complements my life in every way, and I’m incredibly proud of her. Being a father, an entrepreneur, and a creative enthusiast, I make it a priority to keep stress at bay and maintain a positive mindset.
I believe that happiness comes from focus—when you channel your energy toward what truly matters, you naturally create a life that is fulfilling and meaningful. I don’t overthink unnecessary things, and I avoid distractions that don’t contribute to my growth. That discipline, in itself, is a big reason why I remain happy.
In my song, Santhosham, I’ve embedded these ideas within the lyrics and visuals. If you watch the music video or read the lyrics closely, you’ll see that they reflect my personal philosophy of life. One of the key messages in the song is that happiness cannot be celebrated alone—it must be shared. True joy comes from connecting with others, and I think this is something people need to embrace.
If someone constantly celebrates happiness in isolation, it can lead to deeper emotional struggles over time. Mental health is important, and I believe that people of all ages should actively seek meaningful connections rather than keeping their happiness to themselves. At the end of the day, Santhosham is about spreading joy, building relationships, and realizing that life is much richer when we share our happiness with others.
How does “Santhosham” set the tone for your upcoming album, My Perfect Yard? Can you tell us more about that as well?
“Santhosham” is undoubtedly one of the most important songs on my new album. In fact, it was the first spark of inspiration that set the entire album in motion. When I walked into the studio, I didn’t impose any creative limitations on myself—I simply wanted to create a song that would uplift my soul and resonate deeply with listeners. More importantly, I wanted a track that would set me apart from my peers, something that would make my music stand out as uniquely mine. I believe I’ve successfully achieved that with Santhosham.
For my fans and those familiar with my work, this comes as no surprise. They know that Sasi the Don is an artist full of surprises. With Santhosham, I’ve once again pushed boundaries, and I believe listeners can get a taste of what’s to come in the rest of the album.
The album My Perfect Yard is a reflection of the world I come from—whether it’s Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, or the life I live. Through this album, I want to share a message about appreciation—about recognizing the beauty of what we already have around us. Too often, people chase after what they don’t have, forgetting to celebrate the things that make their own world special.
We can’t have everything in life, and we don’t need to. True fulfillment comes from embracing and conquering what is within our reach. When we focus on making the best of what we already have, we naturally radiate positivity, greatness, and purpose.
Through Santhosham and the overall theme of My Perfect Yard, I want to encourage people to take pride in where they come from. Your surroundings, your community, and the opportunities around you are part of your perfect world—it all starts with you. When you embrace that mindset, it creates a ripple effect, allowing you to connect deeply with others and spread joy beyond borders.
This album is more than just music; it’s a celebration of gratitude, perspective, and the beauty of appreciating life as it is.
You started exploring music during your university years while studying engineering. How did you manage to balance academics and music, and when did you realize that music was your true calling?
Balancing music with my university studies was definitely not easy. There were times when I had to make tough, sometimes even selfish, decisions—choosing what was most important at a given moment. At times, academics had to take priority, especially during exams. Other times, music took precedence, which meant missing classes, discussions, or even group projects because I had important commitments like meetings, performances, or appearances. It felt like there was always something happening, and juggling both was a real challenge.
However, despite the difficulties, I managed to strike a balance between the two. It wasn’t easy, but it was a journey I truly enjoyed. Somewhere toward the end of my university years, I had a realization—music was my true calling. I felt that I could contribute more, grow more, and make a greater impact through music. It was a tough decision, but one I have never regretted.
Although I didn’t pursue a career in engineering, I strongly believe that having a full-time profession is valuable for a musician. With my combined knowledge of music, advertising, and engineering, I found my place in the advertising industry. Since then, I’ve worked with some of the biggest agencies, including Mindshare Group, IPG Media Brands, Universal McCann, and others, holding senior creative roles while continuing to contribute content and music to the industry.
Looking back, I have no regrets about choosing this path. Shifting from engineering to music and advertising was one of the best decisions I made. It allowed me to stay in a creative space, pursue my passion, and build a career that aligns with both my artistic and professional aspirations. It’s been an incredible journey, and I wouldn’t have it any other way.
Growing up in Kuala Lumpur, what influences shaped your initial interest in reggae, a genre not traditionally associated with Malaysia?
Yes, you’re absolutely right. Reggae has never been a mainstream genre globally, but it has always had a dedicated following. Back in the 90s, when I was a teenager exploring music, I was fortunate to be exposed to reggae at a time when many legendary reggae artists were surfacing. I consider myself lucky because, at just 12 or 13 years old, I was already deeply influenced by the reggae movement.
That era laid the foundation for me. Reggae was there—it had a presence—but no one in Malaysia was actively doing anything with it. Other genres like hip-hop and R&B had strong followings, with artists emerging and shaping those scenes. But reggae? It was popular, yet untouched. I found myself drawn to it, but at the time, I wasn’t sure if I would actually pursue it as a career.
Over time, things changed. I had a realization: Why not try? I made a promise to myself to explore reggae music seriously. And from that moment, I dived in completely—because honestly, reggae was all I knew. It wasn’t just a genre for me; it was a passion, a calling.
Malaysia has always been a vibrant and welcoming place for different musical styles, so when I started doing reggae, it wasn’t entirely foreign—but it definitely caught people by surprise. It was like, Wow, someone is actually bringing reggae to the forefront! Given reggae’s deep cultural roots in Jamaica and the Caribbean, it was a refreshing and unexpected addition to the local music scene. That was the exciting part—bringing something different, something with rich heritage, and carving a unique space for reggae in Malaysia.
How did your early experiences as a DJ help you develop your unique style of blending reggae with Tamil musical elements?
As a DJ, one of the biggest influences behind my idea of blending reggae with Tamil music elements was definitely my exposure to Apache Indian. Artists like Bally Sagoo, Malkit Singh, and many others from the UK in the 90s and early 2000s also played a significant role in shaping my musical perspective. These artists successfully fused digital electronic music with traditional elements, creating a unique sound that resonated globally.
During my DJing days, I played a lot of these fusion tracks for diverse audiences—whether Tamil, Hindi, or Punjabi music lovers. Over time, I began to notice the powerful impact these crossover sounds had on listeners. Seeing how people reacted to these fusion tracks inspired me to take that concept and give it my own spin by incorporating South Indian elements into reggae.
Of course, nothing comes easy—there were challenges along the way. But looking back, I’m grateful that I took that leap because today, people recognize that this fusion sound is what Sasi the Don is all about. Being a DJ gave me a unique perspective on artists, producers, and audiences, allowing me to understand what truly connects with listeners. I’m glad I had that experience, as it played a crucial role in shaping my musical journey.
Your debut album, Manitha Piravi, sold an impressive 19,000 units. What inspired the creation of this album, and how did its success shape your career?
I was still a student when I released Manitha Piravi, and selling 19,000 units at that time was a huge achievement—especially for someone juggling academics and music. Breaking into the industry while being a student wasn’t easy, but my passion for music drove me to make it happen.
The inspiration behind that album was simple—I wanted to establish myself in music. Fortunately, I had a record label that believed in my vision and funded the entire project. I seized that opportunity, gave it my all, and the rest, as they say, is history.
The success of Manitha Piravi played a crucial role in shaping my career. It was my first album where almost every track received airplay on the radio, which is something rare and special. I was incredibly fortunate, and it was one of those moments where everything just aligned perfectly.
However, this success wasn’t just mine—it was a collective effort. The people who were involved in the project, from the production team to the musicians, played a vital role. And, of course, the media played a huge part in amplifying my music, both back then and even today. Their support was invaluable, and I’ll always be grateful for it.
Your rendition of Tide Is High became a significant milestone in your career. What inspired you to choose this particular song for a cover, and how did the process of creating and promoting it shape your journey as an artist?
When I worked on Tide Is High—originally by Blondie—it was a dream project for me. I had been a huge fan of the song since childhood, and I always told myself that if I ever did a cover, this would be the first one. So when the opportunity came, I knew I had to go for it.
At that time, Shaggy had just released Angel and It Wasn’t Me, two massive hits that had taken the world by storm. The timing felt perfect, and I was eager to put out my own rendition. I went into the studio, collaborated with a producer, and we brought the track to life. It ended up being one of the best English songs I’ve worked on, and it opened a lot of doors for me.
Back then, MySpace was a game-changer for independent artists. It allowed musicians to connect with fans, producers, DJs, and promoters from all over the world. It was like LinkedIn for the music industry—a platform that truly bridged the gap between emerging artists and the global music scene. I only wish it were still around because it played a crucial role in my journey.
Thanks to MySpace, Tide Is High gained incredible exposure. I connected with radio DJs, music producers, and promoters, which helped the song reach a wider audience. That platform was instrumental in elevating my career and giving me opportunities I wouldn’t have had otherwise. Looking back, it was an incredible experience, and I’m grateful for everything that came from it.
Collaborations with various artists like have defined key moments in your career. What do you look for in a collaborator, and how do these partnerships influence your music?
Collaboration has always been at the heart of my creative journey. It’s something I’ve valued not just in music but from my school days as well. Even back then, I loved working with the best, most hardworking, and most creative teams—people who didn’t rely on just one individual to make things happen but instead came together as a unit to create something extraordinary.
As I progressed in my musical career, collaborations became a significant part of my identity. Over the years, I’ve worked with numerous international and local artists from Malaysia, which has helped me carve a unique space in the industry. These collaborations have not only strengthened my portfolio but have also given people insight into who I am as an artist—what I can do, what I bring to the table, and how I push creative boundaries. I understood the power of collaboration early on and used it to bring forward innovative music and impactful projects.
One of the most surreal moments in my career was collaborating with two artists I idolized growing up—Dr. Alban and Apache Indian. These were the musicians whose cassettes I bought as a young fan, artists who shaped my love for music. To go from being a listener to working alongside them, building friendships, and creating music together was a full-circle moment for me. It reinforced my passion for seeking new collaborations and pushing artistic limits.
One of my most memorable collaborations was with the legendary Indian singer Anuradha Sriram on the song ABCD. In 2018, I was going through a challenging period in my life, and I wanted to create something that would truly stand out and make an impact. Anuradha, who is like a sister to me, listened to my vision and immediately agreed to be a part of the project. That collaboration turned out to be life-changing. ABCD made a massive impact in Malaysia and resonated with audiences across the world. It reaffirmed the power of collaboration—not just in music but in life.
For me, every collaboration is a new adventure, a new opportunity to bring different influences together and create something special. And that’s something I will always strive for in my music.
Looking back, I can confidently say that some of my biggest collaborations have been my greatest achievements. Being able to work with artists I once idolized is truly a blessing, and I am incredibly grateful for those opportunities. Each collaboration has played a pivotal role in shaping my journey, giving me hope, confidence, and the drive to grow as an artist. That’s where the magic truly lies.
I have no regrets when it comes to my music—every step I’ve taken, every song I’ve created, and every effort I’ve put into making these collaborations happen has been worth it. It has been an exhilarating journey, filled with challenges, learning experiences, and unforgettable moments. I take immense pride in the work I’ve done and the artists I’ve had the privilege of collaborating with. Those partnerships have not only enriched my music but have also defined my artistic evolution. And for that, I couldn’t be more proud.
Your career has spanned over two decades. How do you keep your music fresh and relevant while staying true to your roots?
Staying relevant and keeping my sound fresh is always a challenge, but it’s something I embrace. A lot of it comes down to research—understanding what’s happening in the industry, analyzing trends, and drawing inspiration from other artists. Whether it’s K-pop, Indian music, or legendary producers like A.R. Rahman, I pay close attention to how they innovate and evolve.
For me, staying fresh isn’t just about following trends—it’s about refining the sound. Music arrangement and styles may change over time, but at the core, the sound is what truly matters. Achieving the perfect sound can be a challenge, but that’s part of the creative process. And while it’s not always easy, I’m grateful for where I am today.
As an Indian artist who is deeply rooted in reggae, I strive to stay true to my identity while continuously pushing boundaries. My goal has always been to create music that resonates with people, that leaves an impact. That’s what drives me forward—to keep evolving, to keep experimenting, and to keep making meaningful music. At the end of the day, that’s the only way to stay inspired and to grow as an artist.
As “Asia’s Reggae Ambassador,” how do you view your role in introducing and expanding reggae music in the region?
Yes, I’ve always embraced my role as the Asian reggae ambassador, promoting and popularizing reggae music in this region. It’s a title I carry with immense pride, and I’ve been dedicated to this mission for many years. Through this journey, I’ve had the privilege of connecting with reggae enthusiasts from all over the world, which has been an incredible experience. These global connections have allowed me to exchange ideas, collaborate, and further expand the reach of reggae music in Asia.
What can fans expect from the new album?
Fans can definitely expect fresh, exciting music. I’ve always been a dancefloor-driven artist, so my songs are created to get people moving. Whether in Malaysia or across the globe, my music has been played in clubs, and I take pride in that. I often receive videos and messages from DJs worldwide, sharing how my tracks are resonating with audiences in different parts of the world. So, if you love energetic, feel-good reggae with a global influence, this album is going to deliver exactly that.
Do You Have Plans for Live Tours and Collaborations?
Absolutely! Collaborations have always been a major part of my musical journey, and I have several exciting projects in the works. I’m also planning a series of international shows, which will be a fantastic opportunity to connect with fans and spread the reggae movement even further. Touring and collaborating allow me to explore new creative spaces, and I’m looking forward to bringing my music to more audiences worldwide.
Despite Your International Success, You Remain Deeply Connected to Malaysia. How Does Your Cultural Identity Influence Your Music?
Being Malaysian is a huge part of my identity, and it has always influenced my music. While I am Indian by heritage, Malaysia is my home—it’s where my journey began, and it will always be at the core of who I am. Malaysia and India share deep cultural and historical ties, and as an artist, I naturally blend those influences into my music.
Malaysia’s rich diversity has given me a unique perspective, and I take immense pride in representing my country on the global stage. Even as my music reaches international audiences, my roots remain strong. Everything I do is shaped by my vision, my experiences, and my cultural background, and I wouldn’t have it any other way. At the end of the day, no matter where my music takes me, I’ll always be proud to say that I’m from Malaysia.
What advice would you give to aspiring musicians who wish to break into the global music scene while staying rooted in their traditions?
My advice to musicians who aspire to break into the international scene while staying grounded is simple—always stay connected to home. The best way to do that is to allow yourself to feel homesick. Your home is everything—it’s your family, your friends, your loved ones, the places you grew up in, and even the little things like your favorite restaurant or the food you miss when you’re away.
For me, Malaysia is deeply ingrained in who I am. Whenever I think of home, the first thing that comes to mind is the food—something that instantly reminds me of where I belong. But beyond that, it’s the people, the culture, and the sense of belonging that make Malaysia so special to me. I feel incredibly blessed to be born in a country that has given me so much freedom, opportunity, and love.
At the same time, India holds a very special place in my heart. Historically, it’s where my great-grandparents came from, and my roots will always be tied to the country. India is not just important to my music—it’s important to my identity. I take great pride in being able to bring my music back to India and build a bridge between these two beautiful cultures. It’s not an easy journey, but it’s one that I’m committed to.
Being a Malaysian and staying true to my roots is essential because Malaysia is my identity. No matter where my music takes me, I can’t and won’t lose that. Staying grounded is about embracing where you come from while growing beyond borders, and I believe that’s the key to success as an artist.
For the new generation, my advice is simple—never lose your identity, no matter what you do. Stay true to who you are and remain focused on your goals. Music is music, business is business, and life is life, but at the core of it all, you are you. Stay authentic, embrace your individuality, and never compromise on what makes you unique. That’s the key to lasting success and fulfillment.
How do you hope your music continues to inspire future generations of artists and listeners?
I hope my music takes me to new places, reaching people across different cultures and making listeners happy. I want it to open doors to exciting opportunities, connecting me with music executives and collaborators worldwide. Music is not an easy business—it requires immense passion, dedication, and resilience.
My goal is for my music to transcend borders, introduce me to new fans, new stages, and new experiences. More than anything, I want to live my life to the fullest, embracing every moment and inspiring people—whether they are fans, fellow artists, or aspiring musicians.
I want to keep evolving, pushing creative boundaries, and having the artistic freedom to create music that truly resonates. For me, it’s not just about success—it’s about the journey, the impact, and the joy of making meaningful music.
