DJ Francis Mercier performed in Mumbai, Delhi NCR and Kolkata as a part of his Sunburn Arena tour. Photos Courtesy: Special Arrangement
How does it feel coming back to India?
It feels phenomenal. I'm really happy to be back. India is like a growing market for me, and I feel like I have real connections with Indians, not just in India. In New York, in London, in Paris, a lot of Indians always show up to my show. So it's really special to come back to them at the van and to connect with the locals here.
At a time when sounds from around the world are coming to India, what makes your music unique? Additionally, what makes Afro sounds and beats unique that you think people don't know about?
Well, with my music, I try to incorporate different cultures from around the world. I have Brazilian records, I have tracks with Arabic, Middle Eastern influences, as well as stuff from West Africa. So I think my music is a good reflection of the world as a whole. I have a bit of every continent, a bit of every country.
Afro beats and music has gained more popularity in the last five years, more than ever before. What do you attribute that to?
I think it comes from a lot of the pioneers. You have a lot of huge artists that are really championing the sound and giving it the level of visibility and making it a social movement. Artists like Kinda Music, like Black Coffee, like Moe Black, I think really made a difference in the scene. And most importantly, coming out of Covid, people wanted something different. And I think that's what Afro House did exactly. It was something that was originally very niche and it was able to grow from there.
On a global level, along the same lines, where do you see Afro House DJs? How have you seen your music evolve ever since you started out?
On a global level, I anticipate it growing further. I actually don't anticipate it stopping or slowing down because there's a demand internationally and people are really into it
When can we expect your next album?
My first album is actually going to come out probably in June of next year. The first single of the album is probably going to drop in December. So some exciting times.
Are you inspired by any Indian sounds? If yes, what are they? Can we expect something in the future? Is there any Indian artist you want to collaborate with?
Yeah, absolutely. I have a collaboration with Sachin Jigar on Aaj Ki Raat. So I'm really looking forward to it. It's a mashup of Aaj Ki Raat and Sauti.
Have you managed to try any local food or drinks? If yes, which is your favourite?
Yeah, Tikki Masala, of course. Curry. I wouldn't say I've tried an Indian drink
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