An Insight into the Melodies and Messages of Tangkhul Folk Rock
The vibrant and talented singer, songwriter, and composer Theithei Luithui has once again captivated audiences with the release of her latest album, ‘Burn’ on Saturday. Released by Ningshem Vashum, SP Ukhrul in Gravity Cafe, Viewland Ukhrul, this album showcases Theithei’s remarkable artistry and her unwavering dedication to addressing pertinent social issues through her music. With songs like Burn, So Long, Lonely Highway, Have You Ever, Voices, and Dance with Me, the blues rock album offers a powerful and thought-provoking musical experience.
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I had the privilege of sitting down with Theithei Luithui to discuss her journey as an artist, the inspiration behind Burn, and her aspirations for the future. Native of Langdang, born and raised in Ukhrul town, Theithei has been actively involved in music since 2010. Her passion for creating meaningful music has been the driving force behind her artistic endeavors.
“The songs in Burn are purely audio-based, and the album as a whole is a reflection of my stance against war, violence, and killing. The current state of affairs, with all the violence and havoc around us, deeply saddens me. I wanted to address this issue through my music and shed light on the destructive consequences of violence. Although Burn was not written recently, its themes resonate with the present situation. Additionally, I drew inspiration from the various societal issues I observed around me,” Theithei explained.
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When asked about dedicating a song to the ongoing crisis in Manipur, Theithei responded, “While there is no specific dedication to the current crisis in my mind, the song Burn itself encompasses the broader theme of violence. It felt timely to release this song given the prevailing circumstances.”
The album marks Theithei Luithui’s first venture into the English music scene. Previously, she released four albums, one in 2010, two in 2014, and another in 2016, all of which showcased her exceptional talent. Collaborating with fellow artists, she also ventured into music videos, further expanding her creative portfolio.
War, violence, and the state of society served as primary inspirations for Theithei’s songwriting. “When everything seems to be going wrong, from the core of our society to our livelihoods and the environment, it fuels my creativity. I find inspiration in observing the world around me, drawing upon the beauty of nature, the complexity of relationships, and the need for positive change,” she shared.
Theithei Luithui is known for her distinct fusion of folk and rock, making her one of the most notable folk rock musicians in the Tangkhul community. Growing up, she was influenced by a diverse range of artists and band which laid the foundation for her unique style.
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The challenges of being a musician in Ukhrul, a hill district with limited opportunities, are not lost on Theithei Luithui. The absence of a proper marketing system has hindered the exposure of artists in the region. Despite these obstacles, Theithei remains optimistic about the future of the music scene and emphasizes the importance of community support. She believes that through collective effort, aspiring musicians can overcome these challenges and thrive.
Over the years, Theithei Luithui has garnered a dedicated following within and beyond her community. Her performances at state-level festivals like Orange Festival, Shirui Lily Festival, and Manipur Tourism Festival have showcased her immense talent to a wider audience.
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The release of Burn signifies Theithei Luithui’s unwavering commitment to addressing societal issues through her soul-stirring melodies. Her music not only entertains but also serves as a call for positive change, love, and harmony. With her distinctive style and powerful lyrics, Theithei has established herself as a remarkable artist, bridging the gap between tradition and contemporary music.
As listeners, let us embrace the artistry of Theithei Luithui and join her in advocating for a more compassionate and peaceful world. Through her songs, we can find solace, inspiration, and a renewed hope for a better tomorrow.
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