Susheela Raman
 | Susheela Raman has become a rising star on the British music scene since her nomination for the 2001 Mercury Prize for her debut album Salt Rain. Born in 1973 in England to South Indian parents, Susheela grew up in Australia, studied Hindustani classical vocal technique in India, and returned as an adult to England. |
She began work on Salt Rain in 1997 and after three years of writing and recording (including a tour with Anglo-Indian DJ outfit Joi), unveiled a captivating, inspired, diverse album which blends classical Indian sounds with blues, folk and jazz influences.
Working with her main collaborator on the album, English guitarist Sam Mills, Susheela weaves her stunning voice around complex rhythms and beautiful melodies supported by musicians from 10 different countries.
We spoke to Susheela a few weeks before she collected her award for Best Newcomer at the first Radio 3 Awards for World Music in January 2002, and asked her to talk about her some of her favourite artists from the contemporary British music scene.
PJ Harvey
I think both PJ and her music have a great character and attitude, as well as being intriguing, sexy and rockin'!
For more information about PJ Harvey, including clips from her Mercury Prize winning album 'Stories From The City, Stories From The Sea', please visit
www.pjharvey.net
Nitin Sahwney
I really admire Nitin for his imaginative use of Indian music with other musics. I also find his real creative ambition refreshing and inspiring.
For more information about Nitin Sawhney, including audio clips and news about forth-coming gigs, please visit
www.nitinsawhney.com
Björk
Björk is a really unique character. She completely pursues her own musical agenda with determination and imagination and she is a truly phenomenal singer.
To find out more about Björk, including her ground-breaking concert at the Royal Opera House in London, please visit
www.bjork.com/unity
www.anokha.co.uk
Talvin Singh is a very funky Tabla player. His music displays a real depth of feeling for the classical material and I think his music has humour too, which isn't often recognised!
For more details about Talvin Singh and other Anokha artists and events, please visit
Links for Susheela Raman