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INDIE SOUL

- Written by Irfan Sheikh of Media Technologies, 5th Semester, 2023.


In the heart of Shillong, where the echoes of tradition reverberate through the hills, a distinct voice rises above the norm — Kevind Nongbet, also known as Legacie, an independent music producer and songwriter. His story encapsulates the aspirations and tribulations of the youth, caught in the crossroads between dreams and societal expectations. change as the piano plays : Kevind's love for music began when he was in 8th Standard, which gradually became his way of life. kevind says that he changed completely as a person when his uncle passed away, who he was to. He and his uncle we're involved in a pretty sad where they both drowned , but unfortunately kevind was the only who was saved. This was the event that made kevind question life, and what he could do to make the most of it.






Oblation : Another realisation of growing up is when we have to sacrifice on some of our dreams in exchange of more responsibilities and restrictions, for kevind it was the same, he hails from a family where they want each member of the family to look after themselves as soon as possible. After realising that he had to give up on his studies, kevind decided to pursue his love for music after his high School graduation. Often in life we have decide between two important options, and kevind did exactly that.




Crescendo : A crescendo signifies a gradual increase in intensity or volume, capturing the idea of a fulfilling and rewarding culmination in a musical piece, much like achieving a positive outcome or accomplishment. As the law of nature goes Kevind was rewarded for his sacrifice, but the difference is that he rewarded himself by working hard for 2 years instead of studying further. He knew he had to work hard for 2 years to be able to afford the gears required to build his own home studio. All so that he could learn as well as produce music. To be able to make sacrifices and rewarding ourselves for making those sacrifices is an example of an Indie Soul.





Harmony Unveiled : "Kevind Nongbet's Journey from Instruments to Independent Music Production"


Kevind's path into music started with a strong desire to express himself through melodies. Growing up in Shillong, where tradition meets modern life, he found comfort in the language of music, using it to convey his thoughts and feelings.His introduction to music happened naturally.




Guitar Mastery: Strings as a Canvas


Kevind's exploration of the guitar was a natural progression from his early fascination with percussion. Driven by an innate curiosity, he picked up the guitar and embarked on a journey of experimentation. Without the confines of formal lessons, he allowed his fingers to dance across the strings, gradually understanding the unique language of the guitar. Hours were spent in solitary practice, refining his technique, and developing an intuitive connection with the instrument. Each chord and strum became a brushstroke on his musical canvas, and through persistent effort, Kevind mastered the art of the guitar.




Piano Prowess: Embracing the Keys The piano, with its intricate keys and diverse range, presented a new challenge and an opportunity for sonic exploration. Without the constraints of formal instruction, Kevind approached the piano with a blend of curiosity and determination. Guided by his intuitive sense of melody, he spent countless hours deciphering the keyboard's intricacies. The piano became a playground for experimentation, with Kevind gradually unraveling the harmonies and nuances hidden within each key. His journey with the piano showcased not only technical mastery but also an emotional connection to the instrument.


Keyboard Wizardry: Navigating Sonic Landscapes Transitioning to the keyboard marked a foray into the world of electronic sounds and a more expansive musical palette. Kevind, ever eager to push his creative boundaries, embraced the keyboard as a tool for crafting intricate sonic landscapes. Without formal instruction, he dived into the complexities of synthesizers and electronic sounds, driven by a desire to weave a tapestry of melodies that reflected his unique artistic vision. The keyboard, in Kevind's hands, transformed into a versatile instrument, allowing him to explore genres and experiment with sounds that resonated with his evolving musical identity.


In all these endeavors, Kevind's journey of learning was characterized by a genuine love for music and an unconventional, self-directed approach. He didn't follow a predetermined path but allowed his instincts and passion to guide him. The process was not just about technical proficiency; it was a profound exploration of self-expression and creativity. Through dedicated hours of practice, trial, and error, Kevind not only learned to play these instruments but cultivated a distinctive voice that echoed through the chords, keys, and melodies he skillfully wielded. His mastery of the guitar, piano, and keyboard stands not only as a testament to his musical prowess but as a celebration of the boundless possibilities that unfold when passion and dedication converge in the world of music.


Kevind playing instruments can be seen as a form of personal freedom and expression. Music often serves as a universal language that allows individuals to convey their emotions, thoughts, and unique perspectives without the constraints of spoken words. In Kevind's case, his ability to play instruments signifies a freedom to communicate and express himself creatively. It becomes a medium through which he can break away from societal norms, embrace his individuality, and forge his own path within the world of music. Playing instruments becomes an avenue for personal freedom and a celebration of the liberty to articulate one's innermost feelings through the art of music.


Symphony of Independence: Kevind's Journey into Self-Taught Music Production


Kevind's musical journey didn't stop at playing instruments; it expanded into music production. Motivated to craft complete sonic experiences, he ventured into producing music independently. With just passion and a basic setup, he tackled the technical aspects of production. Self-taught, Kevind explored the intricacies of recording, mixing, and mastering. Online resources, trial and error, and a relentless determination to bring his mental melodies to life fueled this phase. His living space transformed into a makeshift studio, where creativity flourished amidst the hum of recording equipment and the tap of keys on production software. The journey wasn't without challenges. Countless late nights were spent refining his craft, experimenting with sounds, and overcoming the learning curve of production software. Yet, with each obstacle, Kevind emerged more resilient, gaining a deeper understanding of the art and science behind music production. From discovering drum beats in Shillong's air to navigating the complexities of music production, Kevind's story mirrors the rhythm of his own growth. It's a tale of self-discovery, showcasing the innate power of music to shape and be shaped by the artist. With instinct, dedication, and boundless passion, he not only learned to play instruments but also became the architect of his own musical creations. In his makeshift studio's quiet moments, Kevind found not just a space to produce music but a haven where his unique melodies could echo—a testament to the remarkable results that unfold when passion becomes the driving force behind art.


Harmonies of Defiance: Kevind's Artistic Freedom in Songwriting and Recording

Kevind's process of writing and recording songs serves as a profound manifestation of artistic freedom and a defiance of societal norms. In the quietude of his creative space, he transcends conventional boundaries, using lyrics as a canvas to paint his thoughts, emotions, and unique perspectives. Each song becomes a narrative of his personal journey, an anthem echoing the struggles, dreams, and aspirations that may defy the expectations set by society. The act of recording these songs is a rebellion against the established norms, as Kevind molds and refines his craft independently, guided by the freedom to experiment with sounds and arrangements that resonate with his innermost expressions. In every chord and lyric, there is a declaration of autonomy, a celebration of the liberty to challenge and reshape societal expectations through the universal language of music.



Harmonizing Dreams: Kevind's Symphony of Dedication and Defiance


In the culmination of Kevind's story, the resonating chords of his journey echo with the profound message that defying societal norms is not merely an act of rebellion but an assertion of one's individuality. His dedication to the art of music, from learning instruments to venturing into self-taught music production, becomes a beacon for young individuals navigating the complexities of societal expectations. Kevind's narrative illustrates that the pursuit of dreams is not a linear path; it's a dynamic symphony of highs and lows, requiring immense dedication. It showcases the significance of perseverance in the face of challenges, the willingness to overcome self-doubt, and the ability to persist when confronted with the unknown. Through Kevind's lens, the story emphasizes that true freedom lies not only in breaking away from societal molds but in the resilience to forge an authentic path. His journey becomes a source of inspiration for the youth, encouraging them to embrace their passions wholeheartedly. It serves as a reminder that societal expectations should not dictate the course of one's life. Instead, Kevind's narrative suggests that following one's dreams involves embracing a unique rhythm, a rhythm that requires dedication, hard work, and a steadfast belief in the power of individual expression. In essence, Kevind's story is a call to action, urging young people to be architects of their destinies. It acknowledges the sacrifices and challenges that come with defying societal norms, yet it celebrates the richness and fulfillment that accompany the pursuit of one's true calling. Through Kevind's melody, the conclusion resounds with the notion that the dedication to one's dreams is not just an individual pursuit—it's a collective anthem for those daring to shape their destinies against the conventional tide.



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