Winds of fame have catapulted city-based North Carolina-born musician, producer and songwriter Ricky Kej to what even he terms is a musician’s “unattainable dream” – a Grammy nomination. After topping the US Billboard charts, his latest album ‘Winds of Samsara’ has earned him a nomination in the Best New Age Album category for the 2015 awards.
Reacting to news of his nomination, the ecstatic Bengalurean told The Hindu on Saturday that this is India’s first ever nomination in the ‘New Age’ category, which he said is one of the toughest categories to win. While no celebrations were planned as the “weight was just sinking in,” Mr. Kej is in a different kind of dilemma. He has been nominated against his hero, Japanese musician Kitaro.
“It is an honour just being nominated. But it is going to be an awkward moment in Los Angeles (where the awards ceremony will be held). On the one hand, I will be star-struck. Had I not been nominated, I would have been rooting for him. But I would also be embarrassed if I win against him,” he said.
‘Winds of Samsara’ was an album brought out in collaboration with South African flutist Wouter Kellerman. It was recorded over two years with over 120 musicians from five continents and is based on the theme of world peace.
“While topping the charts speaks of commercial success, getting critical acclaim is also amazing, as it is a validation of my work. This album was not very different from the music I make, but it is a progression from previous albums; almost a culmination of my 15-year music career,” Mr. Kej said.
