Rapper Divine, who delighted fans in Chandigarh with numbers from his latest album Punya Paap, says he listens to a lot of genres to derive inspiration

Sheetal

India’s hip-hop star Vivian Fernandes aka Divine was in town and we could not keep calm! As part of the #ReVibeTheNight campaign, he embarked on a 14-city tour, which began from Chandigarh last night. The rapper performed on songs from his latest album, Punya Paap.

The 11-track album, which claimed #1 on Apple Music and Spotify charts (all genre) upon release features an impressive slew of collaborations, such as hip-hop veteran Nas, Dutchavelli, Lisa Mishra and his Gully Gang associates D’Evil and MC Altaf. Here’s a chit-chat with the rapper:

Which is your favourite city in India to perform at? Also, why have you chosen Chandigarh to be the starting point of your tour?

My favourite has to be Mumbai, my hometown, but I love travelling across India. My fan base in Chandigarh has really grown significantly over the past few years, so I began from here.

How excited are you to connect with the audience live amid the pandemic?

My second album was released during the pandemic and I was unable to tour. I enjoy getting up, close and personal with my fans. I love live performances. I’ve been waiting to fulfil the long-pending promise to my fans - of a full-fledged tour and I’m grateful I can do it now.

Will any other artiste you have worked with be accompanying you on this tour?

Yes, I am travelling with some of my collaborators on the album. Also some artiste friends will be joining me.

You have collaborated with Punjabi artistes Sidhu Moosewala, Deep Jandu and Jass Manak. Is it based on talent or interpersonal relationships?

For me collaborations are always a mix of creative synergies and the relationship with another artist. When both are in sync, you get great results. Deep has been a close friend for a few years now and also produced my first collaboration with Jass Manak, and Sidhu is someone who is on the same wavelength as me.

Is there an alter-ego of Divine that no one knows about? What do you listen to when alone?

There is nothing as such! I listen to a lot of genres outside of hip-hop for fresh ideas and to derive inspiration.

How was the experience of revamping an old hit like Bach Ke Rehna Re Baba for Red Notice?

It was an incredible experience; we had to get the track and video done in less than three weeks! I’ve been working with Netflix for a few years now and this was maybe my third project with them. It’s always a pleasure working with them.

Working non-stop, do you get to soak in the glory of success?

Yes, I do like to take time out in between releases; usually this happens in summer. Although last year we couldn’t do a lot of things because of the pandemic. Now I’m in album mode and will have something new for my fans soon. (Reminds us of his 3:59 AM song).

Who keeps you grounded?

My childhood friends and family. I spend most of my free time with them and it’s great to have a support system like this.

The recent post of yours with singer AP Dhillon created a lot of speculation for the fans. Is it an indication of a new collaboration?

We just met because AP and his team are here for their first-ever India tour. And it’s always great to link up with artistes who’re bringing in a new wave.

You have always kept a decent price for your live-shows. Is there some thought behind this?

I’ve always been close to my roots. It’s important for me that my ‘day one’ fans and those who have joined the journey midway can all come to a show and listen to my music at the same time. That’s the most important thing for me.

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