Global Crossover: Reimagining Western Hits on Sitar
I believe the sitar speaks a universal language. From Mozart to modern pop, I blend the deep soul of Indian classical music with the rhythms of global hits for a fresh, unexpected sound.
While walking through the charming lanes of Lausanne, Switzerland, a Mozart melody popped into my head. I sat down and played his Symphony No. 25, creating a spontaneous moment of East-meets-West.
It's hard to 'Calm Down' when you hear this hit by Selena Gomez and Rema. Here is my take, bringing a touch of the East to this peppy global melody with layered sitar grooves.
My sitar version of NSYNC's "Bye Bye Bye," inspired by the 'Deadpool & Wolverine' trailer. It was a fun way to end my South Asian tour, blending 90s pop nostalgia with the sound of the sitar.
A dedication to someone special with my sitar cover of "A Thousand Years" by Christina Perri. Some melodies are universal in their emotion, and I hope you can feel the love in every note.
My sitar interpretation of "Ghost" by Justin Bieber. I wanted to capture the hauntingly beautiful melody of the song, creating a fusion that is both modern and soulful.
Here is my sitar cover of "Middle of the Night." This was a personal experiment in creating a new space for Western fusion, exploring how the sitar can fit into a pop and hip-hop soundscape.
Trying my hand at the "All Eyes on Me" trend. It was an interesting challenge to adapt this groovy, rhythmic track to the sitar, and I had fun with it.
A casual shot of me with my sitar. This look was for a reel where I covered a popular Alan Walker track, blending electronic music with the organic sound of my instrument.
Another portrait from the Alan Walker cover shoot. The simple, modern styling reflects the contemporary nature of my fusion projects.
Posing in front of a historic building in Mumbai. The contrast between the old architecture and my modern approach to music is a theme I often explore.
About Global Crossover: Western Hits on Sitar
Adapting a Western pop melody for the sitar is not just about playing the notes; it is about reinterpreting the rhythmic soul of the track. I use specialized contact pickups that allow the sitar to cut through modern soundscapes, whether I am performing with a stripped-back acoustic trio or a full rock fusion band.
When I approach a cover, whether it is a Mozart symphony or a contemporary pop anthem, I look for the melody that resonates with the character of the instrument. The sitar is incredibly versatile, but it requires a careful hand to balance its resonance with the percussive needs of Western genres like jazz, rock, and hip-hop.
My fusion work often starts with a question: How can this sound travel from the ghats of Varanasi to a stage in Amsterdam? By layering the sitar with instruments like drums, bass, and keys, I create an ensemble experience that feels familiar to pop listeners yet retains the technical depth of classical Indian music. For private events and concerts, I offer two distinct setups. The acoustic fusion trio provides a sophisticated, unplugged vibe perfect for intimate gatherings, while the full rock fusion band uses a high-energy arrangement with a dedicated sound engineer to transform the sitar into a lead rock instrument. If you are planning an event, consider the mood you want to set; I am happy to discuss which ensemble fits your venue and guest list best.
Mehtab Ali Niazi
I am Mehtab, and my sitar has a wanderlust of its own. Whether I am playing a Mozart concerto in a quiet Lausanne lane or bringing a pop anthem to life in a Mumbai studio, my goal is to make you feel something new. My music is a bridge between the tradition I inherited and the global soundscapes I love.
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