Eminent singer Anny Ahmed is a versatile artist and a passionate singer and songwriter. The Kolkata Mail correspondent Priyanka Dutta caught up with the talented artist in an exclusive conversation. Excerpts..

You’ve had a long and inspiring journey — from being an independent singer in Kolkata to performing across Dubai. How has this transition shaped your musical identity and creative expression?

Anny Ahmed- My musical journey started in Behrampore and grew stronger in Kolkata, where I began performing more seriously. Performing later in Dubai gave me a completely new dimension — each place has shaped me differently and helped me grow both musically and professionally. I was trained in classical music, still in singing with harmonium and tabla, but soon got drawn to Western sounds, bands, guitars, and drums. This mix became my own style. After moving to Kolkata, I began writing and composing, which marked the real start of my independent journey with an independent band. Now I explore semiclassical, folk, rock, pop, and Rabindra Sangeet in various languages — Hindi, Bengali, English, Assamese, Odhia, and even French — each reflecting a part of my evolving identity.

You’ve been performing for over a decade and have appeared in several shows and interviews. Looking back, what have been some of your most memorable or defining moments as an artist?

Anny Ahmed- One of my most defining moments was releasing my first album at ICCR in 2019 — a Rabindra Sangeet album presented in a fresh, experimental soundscape. I did deep research for it, even reading Tagore’s letters to understand his emotions before selecting songs. I collaborated with one of Kolkata’s finest musicians, and the release was attended by senior artists like Somlata di, Potta da, and Upal da, whose love meant a lot. Another major milestone was winning Ticket to Tollywood (2014–2015), which gave me early recognition and confidence. It was covered by DD Bangla, Kolkata TV, and Anandabazar Patrika, where they featured how I balanced being a math teacher and a musician. Those experiences truly defined my artistic journey.

Alongside being a singer, you’re also an educator. How do you balance your passion for music with your role as a teacher, and how do these two worlds inspire each other?

Anny Ahmed- To me, mathematics and music are deeply connected — both have rhythm, structure, and logic. I wasn’t great at math initially, but by class 6 or 7, I began to enjoy it the same way I enjoyed music. During my board exams, I’d solve math problems while listening to songs — somehow, that rhythm helped me focus. My father, who studied mathematics, supported my music too; he bought me my first harmonium and enrolled me in music classes. In our Bengali household, music was treated like prayer. Later, winning Ticket to Tollywood brought both my worlds together — it opened doors for playback and collaborations while teaching kept me grounded and disciplined. Together, they complete me.

Your upcoming Bengali single, released on November 7 under Mr. Babu Records, has created quite a buzz. Can you tell us a bit about the song — its theme, emotions, and what listeners can expect?

Anny Ahmed- My upcoming single, Metamorphose, is an independent Bengali original that was released under Mr. Babu Records, a label known for promoting India’s indie artists in Hindi, English, and Bengali. After the warm response to my earlier release, Haway Mele Dana (2024–2025), I wanted to continue exploring fresh sounds. Metamorphose is composed by Sayantan, written by Soumyadeb (Riju), and sung by me. It’s a playful synth-pop track based on the friendly rivalry between Gen Z and Millennials, filled with energy and humor. The audio dropped on November 7, followed by the music video on November 14, shot at Hindustan Records’ studio floor. Huge thanks to Sujoy, Soumadeb & his team for managing the shoot and to Sayantan and Riju for their brilliant collaboration.

Finally, what message would you like to share with your fans and aspiring musicians who look up to you as both an artist and educator?

Anny Ahmed- Honestly, the word “fan” still makes me nervous because I still see myself as a student, learning every day. What I’ve realized is that no matter how busy life gets, regular riyaz — whether vocal or instrumental — is essential. Every show matters, whether small or big, and supporting fellow artists is just as important as consistency. Go listen to others’ performances, not just yourself — that’s how a real community grows. Also, don’t stick to one genre; explore jazz, pop, classical, folk — everything. The more you listen, the better your musical ear becomes. So my mantra is simple: listen more, sing more, and support each other — that’s the real path to artistic growth.