Why Contests in Indian Reality Shows Tend to Skip the Latest Hits
It’s a common observation that contestants in Indian reality singing shows often favor traditional or well-known hits over the latest or pop songs. This choice may seem puzzling to some, but it's deeply rooted in a variety of cultural, logistical, and personal factors.
Cultural Influence and Familiarity
Cultural Influence: Indian audiences have a long-standing affinity for traditional and regional music. This cultural nostalgia is a massive factor when it comes to the music selections in these shows. For instance, classical Hindustani classical music, devotional songs, and regional hits from artists like Arijit Singh, Sonu Nigam, and Shweta Bachchan have a broad, dedicated fan base. These songs resonate deeply with the audience and are often associated with cherished memories, family traditions, and personal milestones.
Familiarity: Contestants often choose songs they are most familiar with. Many of these contestants are not professional singers but performers who are passionate about music. Singing a well-known song can provide them with a sense of confidence and comfort. This familiarity also helps judges, viewers, and fellow contestants appreciate their performances more, as the audience knows the lyrics and can connect with the emotion behind the song's melody.
Logistics and Practicalities
Practical Considerations: Reality shows, especially those that focus on singing talent, have tight schedules and pressure on contestants to perform under intense scrutiny. Singing new or hard-to-master songs can be risky. Some contestants might struggle to hit the nuances of a new composition, leading to potentially disappointing performances. Choosing a familiar song provides a safety net, ensuring a more polished and cohesive presentation.
Technical Challenges: New songs often come with complex arrangements and advanced production techniques. Ensuring that a performance is technically sound can be challenging, especially with the limited practice time available in these reality shows. By sticking to tried-and-true favorites, contestants can deliver their best without worrying about technical glitches or last-minute hiccups.
Personal and Artistic Choices
Personal Preference: Contestants are subjective and often choose to sing songs that resonate with their personal experiences or artistic aspirations. For instance, a contestant might want to showcase their soulfulness on a poignant devotional song, which can be deeply moving and emotionally charged. Choosing such a song reflects their true passion and artistic direction, rather than what might be trending in the music industry.
Artistic Expression and Authenticity： Authenticity is a crucial element in reality shows. Fans want to see raw, genuine talent, and this is closely tied to the authenticity of the music choice. A contestant’s choice of a favorite song, whether it's a popular hit or a lesser-known gem, can infuse their performance with a unique personal touch, making it stand out and connect with the audience on a deeper level.
Challenges of Keeping Up with Trends
Keeping Up with Trends: Although it might seem counterintuitive, staying ahead of the latest music trends can be a daunting task. Reality shows often feature a wide range of participants with diverse backgrounds and preferences. Trying to cater to a constantly evolving trend can be overwhelming and might not resonate universally among the audience. Moreover, maintaining the quality and originality of their performances while incorporating newer hits can be challenging.
Final Thoughts
The choice of song in Indian reality shows is a complex blend of cultural, logistical, and personal factors. While it might seem that contestants avoid the latest hits, there is a rich reasoning behind their selections. From the comfort of familiarity and cultural significance to the practicalities of performance logistics and the personal authenticity of their artistic expressions, these deciding factors play a key role in shaping the music landscape of reality talent shows. Ultimately, it’s a reflection of the rich musical tapestry of India and the unique experiences of each contestant.