Curiosity, practice & peace

On the second day of Sole DXB, Brooklyn-based filmmaker and journalist Joseph Patel sat down with Chennai-born Carnatic music producer, singer, and songwriter Sid Sriram for a heartfelt and thought-provoking conversation about identity, the immigrant experience and the transformative power of music in shaping a sense of self and belonging.

During the candid 50-minute discussion on December 14, Joseph and Sid reflected on their shared connection to Fremont, California, and their experiences navigating life as immigrants in the US. Sid shared insights into his journey as a musician – from his early inspirations to his evolution at Berklee College of Music. He also opened up about finding fame in the South Indian film industry after a chance cold email to legendary producer A.R. Rahman led to an unexpected career breakthrough.

The conversation revolved around navigating the world as a creative without a rigid sense of identity or belonging, as Joseph and Sid both shared personal anecdotes as well as technical insights and, of course, their deep appreciation for the allure of Carnatic music: