Blues powerhouse Kanchan Daniel is set to light up the Mahindra Blues Festival 2025 with her signature blend of blues, rock, soul, and R&B. A psychology professor by day and a soulful musician by night, Kanchan opens up about her musical journey, overcoming cancer, and…Read More
Blues sensation Kanchan Daniel talks about her return to the Mahindra Blues Festival 2025, blending blues, rock, and soul, her battle with cancer, and how music and psychology shape her journey.
In the bustling metropolis of Mumbai, where the rhythms of daily life harmonize with the city’s vibrant cultural ethos, emerges a powerhouse of talent: Kanchan Daniel. By day, she delves into the intricacies of the human mind as a psychology professor; by night, she transforms into a blues virtuoso, captivating audiences with her soulful melodies and commanding stage presence. Her journey from overcoming personal adversities to becoming a beacon in India’s blues scene is nothing short of inspiring.
As the Mahindra Blues Festival gears up for its 13th edition on February 8th and 9th, 2025, at the iconic Mehboob Studios in Bandra, Mumbai, Kanchan Daniel is set to grace the stage once again. This year, the festival boasts a stellar lineup, including international sensations like Robert Randolph, Ruthie Foster, The Teskey Brothers and Taj Farrant, as well as homegrown talents such as Megan Murray.
Kanchan’s band, Kanchan Daniel and The Beards, formed in 2012, has been a testament to her dedication to the blues genre. Drawing influences from rock, soul, and R&B, they have crafted a unique sound that resonates deeply with their audience. Their performances are not just concerts but soulful journeys that traverse the landscapes of emotion and experience.
In anticipation of her upcoming performance at the Mahindra Blues Festival 2025, News18 Showsha sat down with Kanchan to delve into her musical odyssey, the challenges she’s surmounted, and what fans can look forward to in her future endeavors.
Here are the excerpts:
Representing India’s blues scene, how do you see the Mahindra Blues Festival as a platform for promoting homegrown talent on a global stage?
The Mahindra Blues Festival is an incredible platform that not only brings global blues legends to India but also provides homegrown artists like me with an opportunity to share our music with a wider audience. It’s a rare chance for Indian talent to showcase the depth and richness of our music to a global community of blues enthusiasts. For me, being part of this festival feels like contributing to a legacy that helps solidify India’s place on the global blues map.
This year, you’ll have a full-fledged set. How do you plan to use this opportunity to showcase the evolution of your sound?
This full-fledged set is an exciting milestone for me and my band. Along with the music, the band has also evolved significantly. Through this set, we aim to take the audience on a journey—from raw, emotive blues to more experimental compositions that reflect our growth. It’s also an opportunity to present my original music.
What are you most looking forward to about returning to the Mahindra Blues Festival stage?
I’m most excited about reconnecting with the festival’s audience, which has always been incredibly supportive and engaged. There’s something magical about performing at Mahindra Blues—it’s a celebration of music and community. I’m looking forward to sharing my music, collaborating with fellow artists, and feeling that electric energy from the crowd.
Growing up in a musically rich environment, what role did your parents play in shaping your early love for blues and rock?
They nurtured my creativity and encouraged me to explore music as a means of expression.
How did artists like Janis Joplin and Jimi Hendrix influence your approach to music and performance?
Janis Joplin and Jimi Hendrix taught me that music is more than just sound—it’s raw emotion and storytelling. Janis’s vocal power and vulnerability inspired me to channel my emotions into my performances, while Hendrix’s experimental approach encouraged me to think outside the box and explore the boundaries of the genre.
Despite your passion for music, you initially pursued a career in psychology. What drew you to this field, and how did it coexist with your love for music?
I am still pursuing a career in psychology. I actually teach psychology at a school in Mumbai. I’m not a practicing psychologist.
Psychology fascinated me because it offered insights into human behavior and emotions. My music and psychology career have always coexisted as two sides of the same coin—both allow me to connect with people on a deeper level.
Your battle with Stage IIIC Dysgerminoma was life-changing. How did music become a sanctuary for you during that period?
My iPod was one of the things I was allowed to keep with me during my time in the hospital for cancer treatment. It was then that music became somewhat of a refuge for me. Since I was never afraid of having cancer or fighting it, music was an added bonus to the resilience that I had built.
Was there a particular song or artist that resonated deeply with you during your treatment and recovery?
“Heart of Life” by John Mayer.
How did the experience of overcoming cancer shape your outlook on life and your approach to both music and psychology?
Overcoming cancer gave me a profound appreciation for life and the timelessness of the human spirit.
Can you share the story of how you met Mukesh Lobo and the formation of your band, Kanchan Daniel and The Beards?
I met Mukesh through a mutual friend at a studio. His passion for making music matched mine. Over time, we brought together a group of talented musicians who shared the vision. That’s how Kanchan Daniel and The Beards was born.
(Note: Mukesh Lobo passed away in 2021.)
What has been your most memorable performance and why?
Performing at the Mahindra Blues Festival for the first time stands out. It was a dream come true to share the stage with global icons and represent India’s blues scene.
How does your band blend genres like blues, jazz, soul, and rock to create a sound that’s uniquely yours?
We start with a strong foundation in blues and then weave in elements ofbimprovisation, soulful melodies, and the raw energy of rock. Each member brings their influences, creating a cohesive sound that feels fresh yet familiar.
Are there any contemporary artists who inspire you and influence your current work?
A lot of gospel and soul inspires me. Over time, the artists who have influenced me have changed, and currently, I am drawn to a lot of gospel and soul music.
As a psychology teacher, how do you balance your professional career with your music?
I am a psychology teacher at the moment. My professional degree is in Clinical Psychology. It’s all about prioritization and time management. I see teaching psychology as my day job and music as my soul’s work. Both are integral to who I am, and I ensure neither is compromised by being disciplined with my schedule.
How has your personal experience with cancer influenced your work in psychology, particularly in supporting oncology patients?
As someone who has seen the ups and downs of fighting cancer at a young age, my journey has given me a unique perspective on the emotional and psychological challenges that other cancer patients may be navigating. I try to use this understanding to the best of my ability to make my work more personal and fulfilling.
Do you see parallels between the emotional expression in music and the therapeutic process in psychology?
Absolutely. Both music and therapy are about exploring and expressing emotions. In therapy, psychologists provide people with the tools to articulate their feelings and heal. Similarly, in music, I use melodies and lyrics to process emotions and connect with my audience. Both are transformative mediums for self-expression and growth.
Mental health advocacy is a key part of your work. What inspired you to focus on this area, particularly within the music community?
Being part of any creative industry can take its toll on mental health—long hours, performance pressure, and uncertainty. As creative individuals, we need to be heard beyond our music sometimes.
How do you incorporate music as a tool for promoting emotional well-being in your advocacy efforts?
Music itself is therapeutic—it can uplift, heal, and inspire. When I’m on stage, I find that singing my heart out is a powerful tool to connect and heal.
Over the years, your band has performed at prestigious venues and festivals. What do you feel is the secret to connecting with audiences so deeply?
Authenticity is the key. When we perform, we don’t just play music; we tell stories and share emotions. Connecting with the audience comes naturally when you’re honest and vulnerable on stage. It’s about creating a shared experience that resonates.
How do your original songs reflect your personal experiences and societal themes? Can you share the story behind a song that holds special meaning for you?
“Highland Garden” is a song about resilience, finding strength in adversity, and discovering light even in the darkest times. Initially, I wrote it as a tribute to Janis Joplin—a beautifully complex yet tragically disturbed soul. Though her life was cut short, her music continues to inspire and endure. Over the years, the song has taken on a deeper, more personal meaning for me. It now resonates as a heartfelt connection to loved ones I’ve lost, particularly my grandfather. Through this song, I honor their memory and keep their flame burning brightly, allowing their legacy to live on within me and my music.
Your journey exemplifies resilience and perseverance. How do you stay motivated and continue to inspire others through your work?
My motivation comes from my experiences, family, my husband, my pets, and friends—pretty much everything in my inner circle. Music and psychology allow me to connect with others and make a difference. The love I’ve received and continue to receive from fans has been a huge driving force.
What’s next for Kanchan Daniel, both as a musician and as an advocate for mental health and emotional well-being? Are there any upcoming projects or collaborations you’re excited about?
As a musician, I’m excited to get back on stage with the new band. I’m also looking forward to playing the Mahindra Blues Festival and collaborating with other Indian and international artists. One day at a time. 🙂
